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Tulip Time Cruise of the Netherlands and Belgium on the AMAWaterways Amalegro

By , About.com Guide

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Back to Amsterdam and Home from the AMAWaterways Amalegro
Amsterdam - View of Downtown Amsterdam from the AMAWaterways Amalegro

View of downtown Amsterdam from a French balcony cabin on the AMAWaterways Amalegro

Amsterdam (c) Linda Garrison
We had free time in Amsterdam our last afternoon and evening on the Amalegro. Some passengers used the opportunity to visit the Ann Frank, Van Gogh, or Rijks Museums. Others walked the short distance into the city and strolled along the Damrak or had a drink while watching the interesting people of Amsterdam--both residents and tourists.

It had been a fascinating time in the Netherlands and Belgium. AMAWaterways has developed a diverse tulip time itinerary packed with cities, towns, villages, and countryside. The excellent guides and audio VOX system enhanced our understanding of all we saw and experienced. The entire week was filled with activities and ports, and most of our sailing was done at night. Although we would have loved a day to do "nothing" but sail on the Amalegro and watch the scenery, I can't think of a port I would have sacrificed for a day on the water.

The next morning, we disembarked and took the Amalegro shuttle to the airport. Like most small ships, the disembarkation process was smooth and lacked the stress and "hurry up and wait" sometimes seen on large cruise ships. We didn't have to put our bags outside the door until 30 minutes before we were to leave for the airport, making packing easier. By the time we ate breakfast, our bags were on the bus and it was time to go home.

Thanks to AMAWaterways and the crew of the Amalegro for a memorable time on the rivers, canals, streets, and gardens of the Netherlands and Belgium.

As is common in the travel industry, the writer was provided with complimentary cruise accommodation for the purpose of review. While it has not influenced this review, About.com believes in full disclosure of all potential conflicts of interest. For more information, see our ethics policy.

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