Tulips & Windmills

  • From $4,499
  • |
  • 10 Days
  • |
  • 8 Guided Tours
  • |
  • 2 Countries

Zeeland, The Netherlands

  • Coastal storm surge barrier with crashing waves

The tranquil region of Zeeland is a fascinating blend of natural and human-made landscapes. Here, large swaths of land have been shaped by the tendrils of the delta where the Rhine, Meuse and Scheldt Rivers make their final sprint to the sea. Much of this land lies below sea level, protected from the tides of the North Sea by the vast Delta Works project and by the work of the classic windmills that grace the landscape. A number of islands dot this serene coastal region too. This archipelago of sorts gives this province its name: Zeeland, which means “sea land.” From September through April, restaurants in Zeeland offer oysters, farmed fresh from local waters. They are delicious served with a squeeze of lemon and paired with a crisp glass of wine.

Shore Excursions

Shore excursions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

Scenic harbor with boats and historic tower

Zierikzee & Watersnoodsmuseum

Explore picturesque Zierikzee and learn about an important event in regional history at the Watersnoodsmuseum.

Included
Scenic harbor with boats and historic tower

Zierikzee & Watersnoodsmuseum

Duration: 5 hours      

Timeless Town and Story of the Last Great Flood

Explore picturesque Zierikzee and learn about an important event in regional history at the Watersnoodsmuseum. Drive with your guide into the Walcheren region in the southwestern corner of The Netherlands. Once an island, the dam across the Oosterschelde helped connect it to the mainland. In Ouwerkerk, visit the Watersnoodsmuseum and browse the exhibits that tell the story of the last great flood, which occurred in 1953. The museum is housed in three Phoenix caissons that were used to close dike breeches during the disaster. Continue to Zierikzee for a walking tour of this timeless town with a rich history tied to the tides. After taking in its seaside charms, travel to the Delta Works, a massive storm surge barrier. This ingenious system protects the area from floods while still allowing the tide to ebb and flow through the Oosterschelde. After time for photos, return to your ship.

* Easy - Walking portions are generally over easy surfaces with few steps or inclines. Total time walking or standing is normally not longer than 1.5 hours.
Fresh oysters with wine and bread outdoors

Flavors of Holland

Discover the history of salt-making and oyster farming in Zeeland before dining on local seafood.
Fresh oysters with wine and bread outdoors

Flavors of Holland

Duration: 4 hours      

Learn About the Seaside Industries of Zeeland

Discover the history of salt-making and oyster farming in Zeeland before dining on local seafood. Meet your guide and walk to Zeeuwsche Zoute, the only salt-producing region in The Netherlands. Visit the site to discover how traditional Zeeland craftsmanship is combined with modern eco-friendly techniques, and sample different types of salts. After, transfer to a local seafood restaurant, where you will receive a warm Zeeland welcome with a coffee and a bolus, a cinnamon pastry. Your hosts will explain how the oyster industry was saved in the 1970s and how today’s oyster beds are managed. Learn about the different varieties of oysters found here and take the opportunity to open the shells yourself with a special shucking knife. After shucking, sample the oysters and local seafood while enjoying a panoramic view over the waters of Grevelingen, the source of the oysters.

* Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.
Shore excursions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.