Reservations 877·97·CRAFT  (877·972·7238)

10-Day ~ Tulips & Windmills Knitting Cruise (April 2012)

Viking River Cruises


Start Date:

   

April 10, 2012

   

End Date:

   

April 19, 2012

Tulips & Windmills Knitting Cruise (April 2012) ~ Knitting Cruises Description

Springtime in Holland conjures up images of tulips and windmills. Join Myrna Stahman and Craft Cruises on this Dutch river cruise next spring. Myrna's family heritage is Dutch so this trip will be one of ancestral reflection as well as a lace knitting adventure. The floral spectacle happening only in springtime will be your backdrop to visiting some of Europe's most beautifully preserved medieval cities.


What better inspiration than spring flowers for a lace knitting river cruise. In addition to cruising the canals and waterways of Holland while expanding your lace knitting skills the Floriade World Horticultural World Expo is not to be missed if you are a garden enthusiast. Floriade, held every ten years, is a horticultural expo where nature's the star of the show. The role flowers, plants, trees, vegetables and fruit play in our daily lives is accentuated to be experienced by all your senses.


All your senses will be treated on this lovely cruise. With all the colorful flowers and fresh spring scents combined with knowledgeable guides, expert knitting instruction and some of the most delectable Belgian chocolates and Dutch cheeses you simply cannot go wrong.


Floriade Extension - $599 per person


Enjoy a special two night treat at the end of your journey attend Floriade, a horticultural event held in the Netherlands every ten years. A 2-night stay in charming Maastricht, daily breakfasts, a guided walking tour of the city and hotel/ship transfer are included along with the services of a Viking host.


DAY 1 After breakfast, disembark and take a short ride out to Venlo for your day at the Floriade. Stroll through the parks, listening to beautiful music. Explore the five themed areas Relax & Heal, Green Engine, Education & Innovation, Environment and World Stage Show and ride the cable car for a bird's eye view. Check out the cultural programs, featuring more than 900 acts during the course of the festival (early April to early October). Proceed to Maastricht and check in to the moderate first class Beaumont Hotel (or similar); your evening is free to explore the city's scenery, nightlife and cuisine on your own.


DAY 2 Today you have a full day in Maastricht. After breakfast at the hotel, set off on a guided walking tour of the city, featuring several magnificent churches and the famous 17th-century Town Hall that stands in Market Square. Your tour ends at the Vrijhof Square, the city's main hub; its atmosphere is so comfortable that it is sometimes known as the Living Room of Maastricht. During free time this afternoon you can do some exploring or visit one of the city's museums, such as the Bonnefanten Art Museum or the Natural History Museum. Make sure to try some of the regional specialties, simple yet delicious desserts and of course the local beers. Relaxing with a beverage while watching the world go by is a favorite pastime of Maastrichters, and their hospitality will make you feel right at home.


DAY 3 After breakfast, check out of your hotel and proceed to the airport for your return flight.*