7nt Vinkeveen RETURN

Explore Vinkeveen

5pm-6:30pm

While part of your crew settles on the boat, pick up a few breakfast essentials from one of the designated jetties along the Zuidplas, near the N201 exit, where boats can moor temporarily for convenient shopping. Both Albert Heijn and Jumbo supermarkets are just a short walk from this mooring spot. Alternatively, the mooring at Baambrugse Zuwe provides easy access to the village shops, about 1 km into town.

With your supplies on board, enjoy a refreshing pre-dinner swim or leisurely stroll before indulging in dinner at one of the many lake-side restaurants.

Dinner at Boathouse, Vinkeveense Plassen

7:30pm-9:30pm

Enjoy dinner at this excellent restaurant overlooking the beautiful Vinkeveense Plassen, where a relaxed atmosphere meets a versatile, flavour-packed menu. Try their delicious sushi, stone oven pizzas or discover a street food-inspired dish for yourself and enjoy shared dining at its best, ideal for enjoying together.

Moor at the free mooring opposite the restaurant, located on our side of the lake. There are spots available for two boats, with a maximum duration of 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a taxi to the restaurant, just 5 minutes away, or cycle the 4 km distance.

For bookings: boathousevinkeveen.nl

Vinkeveen > Amsterdam

9am-12.30pm

Approx. 3 hr 30 mins | 1 lock | 1 lifting bridge

From the Le Boat base, your journey starts by passing under the Demmerikse Brug (bridge 777b). The lock operator will assist you as you make your way through. Please note: Vision, Horizon, and Consul boat types cannot pass under this bridge. If you’re on one of these boats, make sure to call +31 (0) 62 787 9860 for bridge opening times: 09:00 – 12:30 | 13:30 – 16:30 | 17:30 – 20:00. All other boat types can pass under the bridge, but ensure all crew are below deck with hatches and doors closed. When steering from the top deck, you’ll need to kneel and bend down, as there’s only about 10cm of clearance from the steering wheel.

Once through, take a left into Demmerikse lock (777a). After the lock, follow the Geuzensloot and turn right onto the Angstel. As you near the end of the river, pass under the Spoorbrug and be cautious when turning onto the busy Amsterdam Rijnkanaal. With around 100,000 ships annually, including fast-moving barges, wait for a clear and safe passage before turning left and heading north toward Amsterdam.

Once reaching the Mond van het Amsterdam-Rijnkanaal, continue straight toward the IJ River and stay to the right and enter Sixhaven Marina.

To explore Amsterdam, moor at Six Haven Marina, conveniently located across from Central Station. From there, hop on the free ferry to the city center – bicycles are welcome onboard at no extra cost. This operates around the clock. Plan your ferry trip: gvb.nl/en

Amsterdam Marina is situated slightly west of Six Haven Marina, on the north bank of the IJ, near the NDSM wharf. Both offer convenient mooring options with easy access to the city centre.

• Lock: Demmerikse Sluis (777a) – +31 (0) 29 726 2540 | +31 (0) 62 787 9860
• Lifting bridge: Demmerikse Brug (777a) – + 31 (0) 29 726 2540 | +31 (0) 62 787 9860

Lunch at Spaghetteria Pasta bar, Amsterdam

1:30pm-3pm

Cycle to the well-loved Spaghetteria Pasta bar, for an authentic pasta you won’t soon forget. There are a few locations to choose from in Amsterdam, but the one in Daniël Stalpertstraat won’t disappoint.

Make a reservation: spaghetteria.com

Explore Amsterdam

3pm-7pm

Spend your afternoon soaking up Amsterdam’s charm with a leisurely cycle or stroll through the Grachtengordel, known in English as the Canal District, where scenic canals, charming bridges, and historic canal houses set the perfect backdrop. If you’re into art, a visit to the Van Gogh Museum or the Rijksmuseum to admire masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer is a must. If you prefer history, the Anne Frank House offers a powerful glimpse into the city’s past. As the evening rolls in, make your way to Rembrandtplein, where the city’s vibrant nightlife kicks off and the streets come to life.

Breakfast at Bakhuys, Amsterdam

8am-9:30am

A pastry and coffee from Bakhuys are a morning pit stop not to be missed before leaving this vibrant city. This cozy Amsterdam bakery is known for its freshly baked croissants, sourdough bread, and delicious pastries, making it a great spot to start your day. Conveniently located near Waterlooplein, it’s the perfect place to fuel up before exploring the city.

bakhuys-amsterdam.nl

Explore Amsterdam

09:30am-13:30pm

After breakfast, make your way over to the Waterlooplein Market (Monday to Saturday), Amsterdam’s oldest and most famous flea market, where you can browse vintage finds, books, and antiques. If flowers are more your style, the Bloemenmarkt on Singel offers a colourful display of tulips and Dutch floral delights, making for a classic Amsterdam experience. Open daily.

While in Amsterdam, be sure to stock up on a few more breakfast essentials for the next few mornings on board.

Amsterdam > Haarlem

3:30pm-6:30pm

Approx. 3hrs | 1 lock

Set off west towards Haarlem along the Noordzeekanaal and take a left onto ZijnKanaal C to make your way to Haarlemsche Jachtclub. To secure your mooring for the evening, we suggest calling 15 minutes prior to your arrival: +31 (0) 63 371 6379

• Lock: Rijnlandsluizen (583) – +31 (0) 23 537 2129

Dinner at Paviljoen Loef, Haarlem

7:30-9:30pm

If you’re visiting during the months of July or August, enjoy a laid-back dinner and drinks on the terrace at Paviljoen Loef, just a 2 minute walk away and right on the water. +31 (0) 64 144 8988 | paviljoenloef.nl

Alternatively, take a short taxi ride into Haarlem to reach Zuidam, a canal-side restaurant renowned for its Dutch and seafood dishes. 023 844 7593 | restaurantzuidam.nl

Haarlem > Lisse

9am-12noon

Approx. 3 hrs | 10 lifting bridges

Head south along the Zuider Buiten Spaarne, a scenic stretch lined with historic buildings and waterfront cafés. As you reach the T-junction, turn right to continue towards Lisse. Along the way, you’ll pass several lifting bridges, each offering a glimpse into the Netherlands’ impressive waterway infrastructure. If the lifting bridges you encounter are not automatically opened for you, give the operator a call on the numbers below. This route winds through charming Dutch countryside, leading you toward the famous flower fields of Lisse.

Once passing under the Lisserbrug, keep a lookout for the entrance to the Lisse moorings to your right.

• Lifting bridge: Waarderbrug (584) – +31 (0) 23 511 5141 | passage fee: 1.25EUR per meter.
• Lifting bridge: Catharijnebrug (586) – +31 (0) 23 511 5141 | passage fee: 1.25EUR per meter.
• Lifting bridge: Melkbrug (588) – +31 (0) 23 511 5141
• Lifting bridge: Langebrug (589) – +31 (0) 23 511 5141
• Lifting bridge: Buitenrustbrug (590) – +31 (0) 23 532 2939; 023 511 3310
• Lifting bridge: Cruquiusbrug (593) – +31 (0) 23 528 4327
• Lifting bridge: Bennebroekerbrug (594) – +31 (0) 23 548 47488
• Lifting bridge: Hillegommerbrug (595) – +31 (0) 25 251 5472
• Lifting bridge: Elsbroekerbrug (596) – +31 (0) 88 111 0444
• Lifting bridge: Lisserbrug (597) – +31 (0) 25 241 3006

Lunch at Wilhelmina paviljoen, Keukenhof Gardens, Lisse

12.30pm-1:30pm

If a visit to Keukenhof Gardens during tulip season (March 20 to May 11) is on your agenda, you will find several restaurants in the park that offer a perfect setting for lunch, including Wilhelmina paviljoen – only 10 minutes by taxi. If you’re visiting outside of tulip season, head to Vier Seizoenen on Heereweg, just 2 minutes from the Flower Museum.

Explore Lisse

1:30pm-4:30pm

A visit to Keukenhof Gardens is a must! It’s the world’s most beautiful spring park, with over 7 million flowers, this dazzling display is a must-see – book tickets or a guided tour in advance at keukenhof.nl. Open from 20 March to 11 May.

Beyond the gardens, you can take a tour of Keukenhof Castle all year-round, or dive into the region’s floral heritage at Museum de Zwarte Tulp. For breathtaking views of the tulip fields, follow the scenic pedestrian and cycling paths through Lisse’s countryside.

For Keukenhof Castle bookings: kasteelkeukenhof.nl

Lisse > Leiden

5pm-7pm

Approx. 2hrs | 4 lifting bridges

After a short 2-hour journey, you’ll arrive in Leiden, one of the Netherlands’ oldest and most historic cities. As you travel down De Zijl towards Leiden, take a right onto the Oude Rijn. You’ll pass under Sumatrabrug and Schrijversbrug, with the moorings clearly located up-ahead on your right.

Make sure you leave Lisse no later than 5pm – to ensure you arrive with enough time to find a mooring and head out to dinner.

• Lifting bridge: Spaanjaardsbrug (601) – +31 (0) 70 441 7731
• Lifting bridge: Leiderdorpsebrug (602) – +31 (0) 70 441 7731
• Lifting bridge: Rhijnvreugdbrug (fietsbrug) (603) – +31 (0) 70 441 7731
• Lifting bridge: Koudekerksebrug (604) – +31 (0) 70 341 3477

Dinner at Oudt Leyden, Leiden

7:30pm-9pm

You’ll love ending your day with sweet and savoury pancakes from this highly rated spot. Take a walk or cycle there and back. Open until 9:30pm.

Reserve a table: oudtleyden.nl

Leiden > Gouda

9am-1:30pm

Approx. 4hrs 30mins | 5 lifting bridges

Head out from Leiden’s city center and continue along the Oude Rijn. This canal runs southeast and will guide you towards the town of Alphen aan den Rijn, after which you’ll turn right on to the Gouwe River, which will take you directly into Gouda.

Moor at the IJsselkade along the Hollandse IJssel. You’ll find it on your left, just after passing the Mallegatbrug. welcometogouda.com

• Lifting bridge: Alphensebrug (605b) – +31 (0) 70 441 7713
• Lifting bridge: Swaenswijkbrug (605ba) – +31 (0) 70 441 7713
• Lifting bridge: Gouwespoorbrug Alphen aan de Rijn – +31 (0) 65 016 0803
• Lifting bridge: Hefbrug Boskoop (663) – +31 (0) 70 441 7713
• Lifting bridge: Hefbrug te Waddinxveen (664) – +31 (0) 70 441 7713

Explore Gouda

3:30pm-6:30pm

A visit to Gouda wouldn’t be complete without the Gouda Cheese Experience! This interactive attraction lets you explore the entire process of making Gouda cheese, from the cow to the cheese board. Sample a variety of cheeses, snap some fun photos, and learn how Gouda became a worldwide sensation. Whether you’re a cheese lover or with the whole family, this experience is sure to be a highlight of your trip. Book your tickets: goudacheese-experience.com

For a great way to round off your afternoon, head to Museum Gouda for a deeper dive into the city’s history. Explore everything from 17th-century paintings to the city’s famous Gouda pottery. It’s the perfect stop before the museum closes at 5 pm. Entry is free for under-18s, while adults pay €16.00. Book your tickets in advance to make the most of your visit: museumgouda.nl

Dinner at Kamphuisen, Gouda

7:30pm-9:30pm

For a memorable dinner in Gouda, head to Kamphuisen Eet & Drinklokaal, a charming restaurant situated along the picturesque Hoge Gouwe canal. Known for its cozy ambiance and friendly service, Kamphuisen offers a modern twist on classic Dutch and European dishes.

Make a reservation: kamphuisen.com

Gouda > Oudewater

9am-11:30am

Approx. 2 hrs 30 mins | 1 lock | 4 lifting bridges

Cruise along the picturesque Hollandsche IJssel for about two more hours, arriving in the charming town of Oudewater. The town has about 530 meters worth of free mooring places for day visitors. Be sure to stop and grab groceries for dinner on board while in town for lunch.

• Lock: Waaierschutsluis (734c) – +31 (0) 56 331 4484
• Lifting bridge: Goverwellebrug (734b) – +31 (0) 18 251 7800
• Lifting bridge: Ophaalbrug Haastrecht (734a) – +31 (0) 61 539 7621
• Lifting bridge: Wilhelmina van Pruisenbrug (735) – +31 (0) 34 8144 0348
• Lifting bridge: Hoenkoopsebrug (736) – +31 (0) 34 842 8693

Lunch at 3 Keuken & Bar, Oudewater

12:30pm-2pm

Cycle or walk into town and enjoy a memorable afternoon of fine food and wine at this popular Oudewater gem overlooking a picturesque canal, known for its refined cuisine, excellent wines, and warm ambiance.

Reserve a table: keukenbar3.nl

Oudewater > Nieuwegein

2pm-6:30pm

Approx. 4 hrs 30 mins | 1 lock | 7 lifting bridges

Make your way towards Nieuwegein, towards an overnight mooring called Passantenhaven Nieuwegein which is located along the pier on a grassy area. Make a reservation: 06 112 565 24 | passantenhavennieuwegein.nl

• Lifting bridge: Cosijnbrug (737) –  +31 (0) 61 539 7621
• Lifting bridge: IJssselbrug (738) – +31 (0) 62 339 9273
• Lifting bridge: Oranjebrug (739) – +31 (0) 62 339 9273
• Lifting bridge: Kerspelbrug (740) – +31 (0) 30 686 1611
• Lifting bridge: Geinbrug (741) – +31 (0) 61 539 7621
• Lock: Doorslagsluis (743) – this  lock is generally open.
• Lifting bridge: Plettenbergse Brug (742a) – +31 (0) 61 539 7621
• Lifting bridge: Wiersebrug (742b) – +31 (0) 61 539 7621

Dinner at Huis De Wiers, Nieuwegein

7:30pm-9:30pm

For something really special, enjoy a thoughtfully curated dining experience with a selection of wines at Huis De Wiers, where the well-known chefs craft a new menu every two months. We recommend an evening stroll as it’s only a 5 minute walk from the pier. You can view the current menu and wine list online. +31 (0) 30 606 1322 | huisdewiers.nl

Nieuwegein  > Utrecht

9am-9:30am

Take a 20 minute taxi ride directly into Utrecht’s city center to enjoy brunch in the bustling town. Leave no later than 9am to enjoy a full morning in Utrecht.

Brunch at 30ML, Vredenburg, Utrecht

10:00am-11:30pm

Enjoy a well-deserved coffee and breakfast just a 10 minutes walk from the bus station at this great little roastery and brunch spot.

30ml.nl

Explore Utrecht

11:30pm-12:30pm

Use your remaining time in town to take in the sights on your way to Market Vredenburg, an open-air Dutch market with a great number of stalls to explore just 2 minutes walk from 30ML. This is the perfect spot to pick up an easy lunch to enjoy on board later today before making your way back to the bus stop. Leave yourself 10 minutes on foot to get back to Utrecht Central to ensure you don’t miss the bus back to your boat.

Travel back to your boat

12:30pm-1pm

Return back to your boat by bus and prepare to set off on a scenic afternoon cruise back to our base in Vinkeveen.

Nieuwegein > Vinkeveen

Approx. 4 hrs 30 mins | 2 locks | 3 lifting bridges

1pm-5:30pm

Make sure you leave at around 1pm – to ensure you arrive in Vinkeveen with enough time to make it through the Demmeriksesluis which closes at 7pm.

• Lifting bridge: Rijnhuizerbrug 744a – +31 (0) 61 539 7621
• Lifting bridge: Blauwebrug 744 – +31 (0) 61 539 7621
• Lock: Zuidersluis 745 – +31 (0) 88 797 3901
• Lock: Demmerikse Sluis (777a) – +31 (0) 29 726 2540
• Lifting bridge: Demmerikse Brug (777a) – +31 (0) 29 726 2540

Dinner at The Harbour Club, Vinkeveen

7:30pm – 9:30pm

End your trip on a high note with a delightful dinner at The Harbour Club on the picturesque Vinkeveense Plassen. Whether you dine indoors or enjoy the view outside, the exceptional cuisine will make this final meal unforgettable. Don’t forget to reserve your table: +31 (0) 29 778 4911 | theharbourclub.com