Heart of Belgium & Holland - Northbound
Date
June 3, 2026
Duration
7 nights
Departure Port
Brussel (Bruxelles)
Belgium
Arrival Port
Amsterdam
Netherlands
Itinerary
Day 1
Day 1
Brussel (Bruxelles)
BelgiumDay 2
Day 2
Antwerp
BelgiumAntwerp is a stylish and sophisticated city filled with monumental reminders of its prosperous medieval and Renaissance past, currently reinventing itself as an exciting contemporary city. Long a major diamond center, it is now making a name as an important player on the world fashion scene. Belgium has the highest density of Michelin star restaurants in Europe, and Antwerp has become a hot spot for foodies. Numerous urban renewal projects are underway, especially in the arts, including MAS, a new museum of the city and a spectacular architectural achievement, and MoMu, a trendy fashion museum.
Day 3
Day 3
Bruges
BelgiumBruges, Belgium is called “the Venice of the North,” and its canals and romantic cobblestone alleys twist and turn to show visitors a perfectly preserved side of medieval history and culture. The city center of Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, meaning a stroll through its center is a must-see and must-photograph opportunity for travelers. History and art buffs will find plenty to see during a cruise to Bruges, like hearing stories of ancient Belgian lore or touring 19th century castles like Loppem Castle or Castle Wijnendale along the way. Then there’s the Groeningemuseum, an impressive art gallery featuring work from artists like Jan Van Eyck to Magritte. As a stop on a Northern European cruise, Belgium also offers plenty of chances to relax, whether you’re taking a tour of a brewery or simply strolling around the Markt, a medieval square where restaurants, cafes, and weekly markets promise plenty of people-watching. Of course, it wouldn’t be a trip to Belgium without trying the region’s signature beer and chocolate, so leave time and room for a cold one and a rich dessert.
Day 4
Day 4
Bruges
BelgiumBruges, Belgium is called “the Venice of the North,” and its canals and romantic cobblestone alleys twist and turn to show visitors a perfectly preserved side of medieval history and culture. The city center of Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, meaning a stroll through its center is a must-see and must-photograph opportunity for travelers. History and art buffs will find plenty to see during a cruise to Bruges, like hearing stories of ancient Belgian lore or touring 19th century castles like Loppem Castle or Castle Wijnendale along the way. Then there’s the Groeningemuseum, an impressive art gallery featuring work from artists like Jan Van Eyck to Magritte. As a stop on a Northern European cruise, Belgium also offers plenty of chances to relax, whether you’re taking a tour of a brewery or simply strolling around the Markt, a medieval square where restaurants, cafes, and weekly markets promise plenty of people-watching. Of course, it wouldn’t be a trip to Belgium without trying the region’s signature beer and chocolate, so leave time and room for a cold one and a rich dessert.
Day 5
Day 5
Gorinchem
NetherlandsDay 6
Day 6
Rotterdam
NetherlandsYour MSC cruise will lay anchor in the largest port in the world, Rotterdam, is a no-nonsense working-class city lying at the heart of a maze of rivers and artificial waterways that together form the outlet of the rivers Rijn (Rhine) and Maas (Meuse). After devastating damage during World War II, Rotterdam has grown into a vibrant, forceful city dotted with first division cultural attractions. Your MSC cruise of Northern Europe will give you the opportunity to see that the immense land reclamation work hasn’t obliterated its earthy character though: its tough grittiness is part of its appeal, as are its boisterous bars and clubs. Amongst the most interesting attractions to enjoy during your vacation in Holland, is Rotterdam’s Kunsthal, the museum of contemporary art, and the Boijmans van Beuningen Museum, which has an outstanding art collection including representative works from almost all the most important Dutch painters: both are in the city’s designated culture zone, the Museumpark. Other interesting sites to visit on an MSC excursion are the Oude Haven, the city’s oldest harbour, ravaged during World War II but sympathetically redeveloped, and Delfs haven, an antique harbour that managed to survive the bombs pretty much intact. Rotterdam also boasts a string of first-rate festivals, including the much-lauded North Sea Jazz Festival and the colourful Summer Carnival. The postwar period saw the rapid reconstruction of the docks and, when huge container ships and oil tankers made the existing port facilities obsolete, Rotterdammers promptly built an entirely new deep-sea port, the Europoort, jutting out into the North Sea some 25 km to the west of the old town. Completed in 1968, the Europoort is able to welcome the largest ships in the world, amongst which also the MSC cruise ships.
Day 7
Day 7
Amsterdam
NetherlandsFew can resist the grand beauty of Amsterdam’s famous canals, which thread through this place of evocative beauty and thrilling contrast. Open-minded and tolerant, Amsterdam is a place for history buffs and hedonists alike, and its diverse neighbourhoods have something for everyone - whether it’s the beachside relaxation of Bloemendaal, nocturnal thuds of Buiksloterham, or characterful charm of Jordaan. 160 serene canals serve as the arteries of this city, imbuing it with its unique essence. Cruise along concentric waterways, past cherry red and oak-wood cladded houseboats, as you learn of its Golden Age history. Culture is also deep in Amsterdam’s DNA, and the Van Gogh Museum – which pays tribute to the tortured genius of the Dutch post-impressionist artist - stands out among its leading museums and galleries. One of history’s greatest tragedies is also rendered in heart-breaking clarity at Anne Frank House. Visit the site where the precocious teenager hid from the Nazi regime for so long, and the room where she penned the most famous diary ever written. Compact and easily walkable, Amsterdam remains consistently postcard-perfect as you watch bright bicycles trundling over ornate bridges, and stumble across hidden, tulip-decorated courtyards. ‘Gezellig’ is the local word for Amsterdam’s unhurried outlook on life. No translation can quite do the concept justice, but you’ll recognise it instinctively as hours float by in a happy haze browsing De Negen Straatjes street’s independent shops, or as you sip coffee with gooey stroopwafel. Broodje haring - a raw herring sandwich - is Amsterdam’s must-try delicacy, but many visitors find tompouce, a delicious pastry topped with vivid pink icing, a little more to their taste.
Day 8
Day 8
Amsterdam
NetherlandsFew can resist the grand beauty of Amsterdam’s famous canals, which thread through this place of evocative beauty and thrilling contrast. Open-minded and tolerant, Amsterdam is a place for history buffs and hedonists alike, and its diverse neighbourhoods have something for everyone - whether it’s the beachside relaxation of Bloemendaal, nocturnal thuds of Buiksloterham, or characterful charm of Jordaan. 160 serene canals serve as the arteries of this city, imbuing it with its unique essence. Cruise along concentric waterways, past cherry red and oak-wood cladded houseboats, as you learn of its Golden Age history. Culture is also deep in Amsterdam’s DNA, and the Van Gogh Museum – which pays tribute to the tortured genius of the Dutch post-impressionist artist - stands out among its leading museums and galleries. One of history’s greatest tragedies is also rendered in heart-breaking clarity at Anne Frank House. Visit the site where the precocious teenager hid from the Nazi regime for so long, and the room where she penned the most famous diary ever written. Compact and easily walkable, Amsterdam remains consistently postcard-perfect as you watch bright bicycles trundling over ornate bridges, and stumble across hidden, tulip-decorated courtyards. ‘Gezellig’ is the local word for Amsterdam’s unhurried outlook on life. No translation can quite do the concept justice, but you’ll recognise it instinctively as hours float by in a happy haze browsing De Negen Straatjes street’s independent shops, or as you sip coffee with gooey stroopwafel. Broodje haring - a raw herring sandwich - is Amsterdam’s must-try delicacy, but many visitors find tompouce, a delicious pastry topped with vivid pink icing, a little more to their taste.
Cabin Categories
No Image
Category 1 | Emerald Deck
Inside
CAT1
Private Balcony:
No
Beds:
2 European twin beds that can slide together; 200 cm x 156 cm (two beds 200 cm x 78 cm each when separate); 79" x 61" (two beds 79" x 31"); 4 pieces of luggage can be stored under beds
Stateroom Furnishings:
Built-in closet with drawers, 2 chairs, 400 thread count cotton linens\white duvets and pillows of mako cotton with 90% down filling
Private Bathroom:
Yes, with shower
Bathroom Amenities:
Molton Brown toiletries – a Tauck Exclusive, Terry-cloth bathrobe plus slippers
Stateroom Amenities:
Two 2' by 3' fixed windows, Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily, 32" LED TV, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed luggage storage, Telephone, safe and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available
Sold Out
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Category 2 | Ruby Deck
Inside
CAT2
Private Balcony:
French
Beds:
2 European twin beds that can slide together; 200 cm x 156 cm (two beds 200 cm x 78 cm each when separate); 79" x 61" (two beds 79" x 31"); 4 pieces of luggage can be stored under beds
Stateroom Furnishings:
Built-in closet with drawers, 2 chairs, 400 thread count cotton linens\white duvets and pillows of mako cotton with 90% down filling
Private Bathroom:
Yes, with shower
Bathroom Amenities:
Molton Brown toiletries – a Tauck Exclusive, Terry-cloth bathrobe plus slippers
Stateroom Amenities:
One floor-to-ceiling French Balcony (98 inches wide x 75 inches high) with one sliding door that opens, Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily, 32" LED TV, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed luggage storage, Telephone, safe and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available
Sold Out
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Category 3 | Emerald Deck
Inside
CAT3
Private Balcony:
No
Beds:
2 European twin beds that can slide together; 200 cm x 160 cm (two beds 200 cm x 80 cm each when separate); 79" x 63" (two beds 79" x 31.5"); 4 pieces of luggage can be stored under beds
Stateroom Furnishings:
Padded headboard with reading lamps, Closets, Storage / drawers, 4 steps up to loft area, Railing, Built-in closet with drawers, 400 thread count cotton linens / white duvets and pillows of mako cotton with 90% down filling
Private Bathroom:
Yes, with shower
Bathroom Amenities:
Molton Brown toiletries – a Tauck Exclusive, Terry-cloth bathrobes plus slippers, Full-sized bathroom featuring enhanced lighting, additional storage and a hair dryer, Large shower featuring rainfall shower head
Stateroom Amenities:
Innovatively designed 225 sq. ft. "split-level" loft cabins, One-and-a-half deck window that opens at the top, electronically controlled, Safe, Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks, replenished daily, 32" LED TV , Window (98 inches x 114 inches) can be partially opened, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed luggage storage, Telephone and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available
Sold Out
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Category 4 | Ruby Deck
Inside
CAT4
Private Balcony:
French
Beds:
2 European twin beds that can slide together; 200 cm x 160 cm (two beds 200 cm x 80 cm each when separate); 79" x 63" (two beds 79" x 31.5"); 4 pieces of luggage can be stored under beds
Stateroom Furnishings:
Built-in closet and drawers, 2 chairs, 400 thread count cotton linens\white duvets and pillows of mako cotton with 90% down filling
Private Bathroom:
Yes, with shower
Bathroom Amenities:
Molton Brown toiletries – a Tauck Exclusive, Terry-cloth bathrobe plus slippers, Bathroom with larger showers with rainfall shower heads, enhanced lighting, and under-sink storage space
Stateroom Amenities:
One floor-to-ceiling French Balcony (98 inches wide x 75 inches high) with one sliding door that opens, Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily, 32" LED TV, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed, luggage storage, Telephone, safe and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available
Sold Out
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Category 5 | Diamond Deck
Inside
CAT5
Private Balcony:
French
Beds:
2 European twin beds that can slide together; 200 cm x 160 cm (two beds 200 cm x 80 cm each when separate); 79" x 63" (two beds 79" x 31.5"); 4 pieces of luggage can be stored under beds
Stateroom Furnishings:
Padded headboard with reading lamps, Large closet, Storage / drawers, 400 thread count cotton linens / white duvets and pillows of mako cotton with 90% down filling
Private Bathroom:
Yes, with shower
Bathroom Amenities:
Molton Brown toiletries – a Tauck Exclusive, Terry-cloth bathrobes plus slippers, Full-size bathroom featuring enhanced lighting, additional storage and hair dryer, Large shower featuring rainfall shower head
Stateroom Amenities:
One floor-to-ceiling French balcony (98 inches x 75 inches) with one sliding door that opens, 32" LED TV, Safe, Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks, replenished daily, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed luggage storage, Telephone and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available
Sold Out
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Category 5 | Ruby Deck
Inside
CAT5
Private Balcony:
French
Beds:
2 European twin beds that can slide together; 200 cm x 160 cm (two beds 200 cm x 80 cm each when separate); 79" x 63" (two beds 79" x 31.5"); 4 pieces of luggage can be stored under beds
Stateroom Furnishings:
Padded headboard with reading lamps, Storage / drawers, Large closet, 400 thread count cotton linens / white duvets and pillows of mako cotton with 90% down filling
Private Bathroom:
Yes, with shower
Bathroom Amenities:
Molton Brown toiletries – a Tauck Exclusive, Terry-cloth bathrobes plus slippers, Full-size bathroom featuring enhanced lighting, additional storage and hair dryer, Large shower featuring rainfall shower head
Stateroom Amenities:
One floor-to-ceiling French balcony (98 inches x 75 inches) with one sliding door that opens, 32" LED TV, Safe, Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks, replenished daily, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed luggage storage, Telephone and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available
Sold Out
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Category 6 | Ruby Deck
Inside
CAT6
Private Balcony:
French
Beds:
2 European twin beds that can slide together; 200 cm x 160 cm (two beds 200 cm x 80 cm each when separate); 79" x 63" (two beds 79" x 31.5"); 4 pieces of luggage can be stored under beds
Stateroom Furnishings:
Padded headboard with reading lamps, Storage / drawers, Large closet, 400 thread count cotton linens / white duvets and pillows of mako cotton with 90% down filling
Private Bathroom:
Yes, with shower
Bathroom Amenities:
Molton Brown toiletries – a Tauck Exclusive, Terry-cloth bathrobes plus slippers, Full-sized bathroom featuring enhanced lighting, additional storage and hair dryer, Large shower featuring rainfall shower head
Stateroom Amenities:
One floor-to-ceiling French balcony (98 inches x 75 inches) with one sliding door that opens, 32" LED TV, Full-sized window (98 inches x 37.5 inches), Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks, replenished daily , Safe, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed luggage storage, Telephone and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available
Sold Out
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Category 7 | Diamond Deck
Inside
CAT7
Private Balcony:
French
Beds:
2 European twin beds that can slide together; 200 cm x 180 cm (two beds 200 cm x 90 cm each when separate); 79" x 71" (two beds 79" x 35"); 4 pieces of luggage can be stored under beds
Stateroom Furnishings:
Padded headboard with reading lamps, Walk-in closet with built-in shelves, Storage / drawers, Pull-out sleeping sofa 190 cm x 110 cm – 75" x 43" (triple & quad capacity; quads for children only), 400 thread count cotton linens / white duvets and pillows of mako cotton with 90% down filling
Private Bathroom:
Yes, with shower
Bathroom Amenities:
Molton Brown toiletries – a Tauck Exclusive, Terry-cloth bathrobes plus slippers, Full-size bathroom featuring enhanced lighting, additional storage and a hair dryer, Large shower featuring rainfall shower head (note: no bathtub)
Stateroom Amenities:
Two floor-to-ceiling French balconies, each 98 inches x 75 inches with one sliding door that opens, 32" LED TV, Safe, Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks, replenished daily, Coffee maker, Breakfast room service, Iron plus ironing board, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed luggage storage, Telephone and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available, a shipboard credit (one per stateroom) is provided to be used onboard for spa services, gift shop purchases, etc
Sold Out
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