Experience the Best of Times with an All-Inclusive European River Cruise on AMA Waterways' Tulip Time Cruise
Embark on an unforgettable senior group travel experience with Best of Times Travel's exclusive Tulips & Windmills 2026 river cruise, a truly all-inclusive vacation designed for discerning travelers. This senior touring trip aboard AMA Waterways’ luxurious AmaStella offers a 10-day journey through Holland and Belgium’s breathtaking springtime splendor. Witness the iconic tulip fields in full bloom, explore Amsterdam's vibrant culture, and discover the medieval charm of Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges.
This meticulously planned European river cruise provides a seamless and enriching travel experience. Enjoy the comfort of elegantly appointed staterooms, savor gourmet meals featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and indulge in unlimited regional wines, beers, and soft drinks. AMA Waterways is renowned for its exceptional service and attention to detail, ensuring a relaxing and immersive journey.
Inclusive Travel with Best of Times Travel means every aspect of your trip is thoughtfully curated. From roundtrip airfare and airport transfers to expert-led tours with personal audio devices, we handle all the details. Choose from a variety of daily excursions at different activity levels, including guided hikes, bike tours, and city explorations, all included in your fare.This all-inclusive vacation also features:
Experience the beauty of the Low Countries in comfort and style with this premium senior group travel opportunity. Discover why AMA Waterways and Best of Times Travel deliver the best of times on this extraordinary European river cruise.
Holland’s floral splendor only happens in the springtime. Come see the rainbow of colors, and visit some of Belgium’s most beautifully preserved medieval cities for the ultimate 10-day spring vacation in the Low Countries. Explore Amsterdam’s cosmopolitan atmosphere and world-famous museums. Experience Belgium’s Golden Age in historic Antwerp and the lovely patrician cities of Ghent and Brugge. Learn more about Holland’s age-old battle against the sea with tours of ingenious windmills and the massive Delta Works project. Plus, enjoy savory Dutch cheeses, delectable Belgian chocolates and Belgium’s exquisite, intricate lace on this delightful vacation.
Unforgettable Moments on Your All-Inclusive Tulip Time European River Cruise
Experience the pinnacle of senior group travel with Best of Times Travel's meticulously curated Tulips & Windmills 2026 European river cruise aboard AMA Waterways' AmaStella. This all-inclusive vacation promises a tapestry of unforgettable moments, perfectly tailored for a delightful senior touring trip.
This senior touring trip is designed to provide the best of times, combining cultural immersion, scenic beauty, and luxurious comfort on an AMA Waterways European river cruise.
Here's What's Included as part of your Best of Times Travel All-Inclusive Tulips & Windmills River Cruise Package:
• 8 Day Deluxe River Cruise on the AmaStella - Elegantly appointed riverview staterooms, most with signature twin balconies, French balconies or full balconies
• 2-Night Best of Times Travel Pre-Cruise Tour in Amsterdam
• Roundtrip Airfare from Logan Airport
• Roundtrip Transfer to Airport - w/ hometown pick-up guarantee*
• Best of Times Professional Tour Manager throughout your trip**
• All Touring Included with private, English-speaking guides and Personal audio device, Quietvox, to better appreciate your guide’s insightful commentary. Plus Bicycles with helmets and Nordic walking sticks. Choose your excursion activity level: gentle, regular or active pace tours. There are even some options for late risers.
• All onboard meals featuring regional specialties & always available American classics - Dining with open seating
• Unlimited Wines, Beers, & Soft Drinks with every lunch and dinner on board ship, plus Daily Sip & Sail cocktail hour with complimentary wine, beer, and spirits
• Old World Highlights: Distinctive onboard programs, such as lectures, theme dinners, music performances, and afternoon/evening piano music
• Welcome Cocktail Reception/Dinner & Gala Dinner
• Wellness Program offering a variety of daily exercise classes led by a professionally trained Wellness Host.
• Luxurious Staterooms - Hotel-style bed with optional twin-bed configuration; luxury linens & pillows, Entertainment-On-Demand in all staterooms and suites with complimentary high-speed internet, movies, music and English-language TV stations. Unlimited high-quality Wi-Fi on board. Security safe, Hair dryer, 110/220 volt outlets & USB port, refrigerator
• Refreshing water always available, with biodegradable Tetra Pak® containers for excursions
•All Driver Gratuities Included for transfers
• Special Early Booking & Past Passenger Discounts
• Optional Chubb Travelers Insurance Program Available. For More Information on the Insurance Program Click Here.
** Minimum requirement of 20 paying customers from Best of Times Travel to ensure Tour Director services throughout the cruise.
* For a Single Group Pick-Up within 20 miles of Boston Logan Airport. Group Locations within 20 miles of Boston Logan Airport are ensured a singular pick-up in their home town. Groups outside of 20 miles may need to pay a transportation upcharge. Non-Group Bookings will need to drive to the closest designated Best of Times Travel or Group Departure Location. Best of Times Travel will notify you of the closest designated pick-up location to where you live approximately 45 days prior to the sailing date.
Day 1, Depart Boston, MA - Days 2 -3, AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - Enjoy your pre-packaged/included overnight flight from Boston to Amsterdam, Netherlands with your Best of Times Travel Tour Manager. Founded in 1270, Amsterdam is a cosmopolitan capital that has successfully retained its Old World charm. Enjoy the city’s traditional Dutch architecture, its iconic meandering canals and bridges with your included guided tour of this magnificent city.
Our 2 Night pre-cruise package includes 4-Star Accommodations, breakfast each morning, and porterage service. This relaxing pre-cruise program allows plenty of time to visit the city at your own pace once you have become acclimated from the included city tour. Visit the van Gogh Museum, the renovated Rijksmuseum with its marvelous collection of Dutch Master paintings, Rembrandts famed Night Watch is on display here. With time on your own be sure to stop at Dam Square, Amsterdam’s main plaza or take a tour of Anne Frank House. Perhaps take in an iconic canal cruise in a glass-topped boat. Whatever your pleasure your Best of Times Travel Tour Manager and AMA Waterways Concierge can help you plan your time. (B)
Day 4, AMSTERDAM & HAARLEM - Enjoy an enchanting cruise along the canal in Haarlem outside of Amsterdam, passing historic architecture, bridges and even a windmill iconic of the region. Later in the day we will transfer to our award-winning ship, the AmaStella. (B,D)
Day 5, AMSTERDAM & KAMPEN - Enjoy a scenic cruise through the IJsselmeer to Kampen. Venture to the charming, canal-laden village of Giethoorn, nicknamed the “Dutch Venice.” Capture wonderful photos of the picturesque thatched-roof farmhouses, which are seemingly lifted straight from the pages of a fairytale. In the afternoon, go for a guided bike ride through the Dutch countryside or visit Flevoland’s vibrant tulip fields. (B,L,D)
Day 6 - DELTA, ZIERIKZEE, & BRUINISSE - After enjoying a scenic cruise through the Delta, join a guided tour to the medieval harbor town of Zierikzee, brimming with delights, from its 16th-century stone-built Gravesteen to its lovely harborside shops and cafes. This excursion includes a photo stop at the Oosterschelde Kering, the largest storm surge barrier of the Delta Works. Alternatively, focus your tour on the history of the Delta Works at Neeltje Jans, one of the world’s most impressive storm surge barriers. More than half of the Netherlands lies below sea level and the Delta Works were built to prevent a recurrence of the 1953 flood disaster. Prefer discovering Bruinisse on two wheels? Join our guide for an exhilarating bike tour. (B,L,D)
Day 7 - GHENT & BRUGES - Admire Ghent’s canal-side architecture and some of its famous sights, including the Castle of the Counts and St. Bavo’s Cathedral and its Adoration of the Mystic Lamb. Those with a sweet tooth can visit a chocolate maker’s shop. After being greeted with a glass of champagne, a master chocolatier will brief you on the history of chocolate. You will also have the opportunity to taste different types of pralines - and try your hand at making your own. Alternatively, take a full-day tour of Bruges, one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through Grote Markt and Burg Square, visit the centuries-old Church of Our Lady with its prominent spire, and, if you choose, sample some of the local specialties, from Belgian fries to waffles to chocolate, before returning to the ship. (B,L,D)
Day 8 - ANTWERP - Explore this trendy city on a walking tour where you’ll see Antwerp’s Steen Castle, Grote Market and Brabo Fountain, along with the UNESCO-designated Cathedral of Our Lady. For a more active exploration of the area, join a guided bike tour. Later in the afternoon, you have a choice of two excursions. Foodies will want to go on a culinary tour to indulge in chocolate, waffles and beer. Flower lovers and gardeners can roam through the Floralia, an annual spring flower show featuring approximately one million bulbs that are hand-planted each year by the castle staff. (B,L,D)
Day 9 - ROTTERDAM & KINDERDIJK- During the morning, you can go on a walking tour of Rotterdam, nicknamed the “Gateway to Europe,” and taste local specialties. Alternatively, go on an excursion to Delft, known as the home of the painter Johannes Vermeer, Delft Blue earthenware and the Royal House. While here, you’ll visit the Royal Delft Porcelain Factory and Museum. If you prefer a more active adventure, then go on a bike ride through Rotterdam and past some of its famous landmarks and architecture. In the afternoon, venture to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kinderdijk, a lovely village renowned for having the country’s greatest concentration of windmills, all dating from the 18th century. Visit a private windmill via electric boat. You may also pedal past the windmills from the seat of a bike. Or, if you wish to explore the history of US immigration, join us on an excursion that visits Delfshaven, where, on August 1, 1620, the Pilgrim fathers departed on their epic journey aboard the Speedwell, plus tour the FENIX Museum of Migration, a former harbor warehouse currently being transformed into this unique educational experience. (B,L,D)
Day 10 - AMSTERDAM & KEUKENHOF GARDENS - Enjoy a morning of scenic cruising before venturing out in the afternoon on a smaller boat specially designed to glide beneath the many bridges of Amsterdam. Admire the city’s historic harbor and canals, where you’ll see beautiful homes lining the water and the fabled Skinny Bridge. Alternatively, marvel at one of the most impressive public gardens in the world, Keukenhof**, which presents a spectacular display of millions of flowering tulips spread out over 70 acres. Spend time ambling through this legendary garden, open only nine weeks a year and sometimes referred to as the “Garden of Europe.” Enjoy your evening docked in Amsterdam and explore the city. (B,L,D)
Day 11 - AMSTERDAM TO BOSTON - Enjoy your breakfast on board the ship before we say farewell to Amsterdam for our flight back to Boston. (B)
AmaStella Overview - A star of the AmaWaterways fleet, the award-winning AmaStella truly shines, her glow lasting far longer than the duration of your cruise. A centerpiece glass elevator ringed with dual curved stairways and sleek contemporary reception desk are just the introduction to the ship’s beauty and class. On board, you’ll find an inviting fireside library, fitness room with wooden floors, heated pool with convenient swim-up bar, a stunning Main Lounge, sun-deck walking track, massage and hair salon, gift shop and specialty coffee station. Unlimited wine and beer at the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table is a welcome offering for those who enjoy a bottle or brew. In your stateroom, your personal oasis of rejuvenation, you’ll find twin balconies, both a French and outside balcony, so you can enjoy the ever-changing scenery however you wish. You’ll also step into a spacious glass-enclosed shower, giving you the freedom to rejuvenate without limitations.
TECHNICAL DATA
Built in Netherlands
Length 443 feet
Width 38 feet
Crew 51
Staterooms 78
Passengers 156
Number of Decks 4
Registry Switzerland
Award-Winning Dining - Savor exquisite cuisine at a variety of dining venues, like the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table. You can also order delicious tapas between meals in the Main Lounge.
Inviting Public Spaces - With fewer guests on board, you can enjoy the luxury of space to unwind, relax and reconnect with your loved ones. Our public areas, including lounges and restaurants, are never overcrowded.
Enriching Entertainment - Whether it’s traditional Bavarian music, a local quartet or modern piano favorites, there is an eclectic schedule of entertainment on board.
Sightsee by Bike - With a fleet of complimentary bicycles on board, you have the opportunity to explore Europe on our guided bike tours, or go discover on your own.
Sun-Deck Pool - Soak up some rays or take a dip in our refreshing pool with a swim-up bar as we pass by centuries-old castles, charming villages and other breathtaking scenery.
Massage Services and Hair Salon - After a marvelous day of immersive shore excursions, return to the ship and treat yourself to a bit of pampering with a soothing massage.
Fitness Room - Are you looking for a way to stay fit on vacation? Hit the treadmill or lift some weights while cruising from one destination to the next.
ALL PRICES ARE PER PERSON AND ARE BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY. IF YOU ARE A SOLO TRAVELER, PLEASE PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE DIRECTLY FOR OFFICIAL PRICING. SOLO CABINS ARE APPROXIMATELY 125% - 150% OF THE COST OF DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
Enjoy all of the amenities you have come to expect from a modern day cruise ship and then some. All staterooms come with Hotel-style bed with optional twin-bed configuration; luxury linens & pillows, Entertainment-On-Demand in all staterooms and suites with complimentary high-speed internet, movies, music and English-language TV stations. Unlimited high-quality Wi-Fi on board. Security safe, Hair dryer, 110/220 volt outlets & USB port, refrigerator
Category D - Standard Cabin with Fixed Window - Located on the Piano Deck (Deck 1). Cabin Size: 160 sq. ft.
Category CB - French Balcony Cabin - Located on the Violin Deck (Deck 3) . Cabin Size: 155 sq. ft.
Category CA- French Balcony Cabin - Located on the Violin (Deck 3) & Cello Decks (Deck 2). Cabin Size: 170 sq. ft.
Category BB- French Balcony & Outside Balcony Combo Cabin - Located on the Cello Deck (Deck 2). Cabin Size: 210 sq. ft.
Category BA- French Balcony & Outside Balcony Combo Cabin - Located on the Violin Deck (Deck 3). Cabin Size: 210 sq. ft.
Category AB- French Balcony & Outside Balcony Combo Cabin - Located on the Violin Deck (Deck 3). Cabin Size: 210 sq. ft.
For Full Details Regarding the Optional Chubb Travel Insurance Click Here.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Responsibilities: Best of Times Travel is acting solely as an agent for supplier(s) identified on accompanying documents in selling travel related services, or in accepting reservations or bookings for services that are not directly supplied by this agency. Best of Times Travel is not responsible or liable for breach of contract or any other intentional or careless actions or omissions on part of such suppliers which result in any delays, missed connections, changes in ports of call, climatic conditions, losses, damages, or additional expenses owning to advertised schedules, change in any service or accommodations, or any other causes beyond our control. Departure/arrival points will try to be satisfied but are not guaranteed. In the event the services and accommodations set forth in this brochure cannot be supplied because of delays or other causes beyond our control, Best of Times Travel will use its best efforts, provided they have received notice of the delay or disruption, to arrange for comparable services and accommodations. Rates and itineraries shown here were in effect at the time of printing and no changes are anticipated; however, Best of Times Travel reserves the right to withdraw any tour or to make any rate changes, as necessary. Prices are subject to change. A deposit is always required to confirm a reservation. A Deposit of $850pp, plus insurance premium (if selected) is due upon registration to confirm your reservation. Travel Insurance: We recommend your purchase of optional travel insurance. This optional travel insurance is per person and the premium is based on the overall trip cost. Travelers MUST purchase the plan at the time of initial deposit. Coverage will not be in place unless your full Deposit is received. Cancellation schedule and fees are in place regardless of cancellation reason (including, but not limited to, force majeure, health pandemics or government restrictions). Travel Insurance Premium is also Non-Refundable regardless of cancellation reason. Payment in full must be received by December 19th, 2025 or this may result in an automatic cancellation. Please note: All cancellations must be made in writing and sent to Best of Times Travel via traditional mail or emailed to cancellations@bestoftimestravel.com. The date of cancellation is deemed to be the date received by Best of Times Travel. Cancellation Charges for this programs are as follows: Cancellations from date of booking until 11/21/2025 have a $550pp cancellation fee that is not covered by insurance. Cancellations from 11/22/2025 until 12/23/2025 have a cancellation fee of $850pp. Cancellations from 12/24/2025 until 1/22/2026 have a cancellation fee of 35% of the total fare. Cancellations from 1/23/2026 until 2/22/2026 have a cancellation fee of 50% of the total fare. Cancellations after 2/22/2026 will receive no refund, 100% of the total fare. Best of Times Travel is not responsible for any refunds over and above said amount. Best of Times Travel reserves the right to issue any refunds due, in whole or in part, in the form of future travel credit.
*Pre-Existing Medical Condition Exclusion Waiver has the following stipulations: plan must be purchased within 15 days of initial trip payment, insured must be medically able to travel at time of purchasing the plan, all pre-paid, non-refundable trip costs need to be insured. This information is a brief description of the features of this insurance program. Coverage & pricing may vary by state. The provision of this document is for informational purposes only and is not an insurance contract. Coverage is being marketed by Chubb Insurance Solutions Agency, Inc. located at 202 Halls Mills Road, Whitehouse Station, New Jersey 08889. Insurance benefits are underwritten by ACE Property & Casualty Insurance Company located at 436 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19106.
PASSPORT - A valid government issued passport is required for this trip, and must be valid for 90 days AFTER the date this trip returns. *BEFORE BOOKING, PLEASE ENSURE THAT YOU PROVIDE YOUR LEGAL NAME AND DATE OF BIRTH AS THEY APPEAR ON YOUR PASSPORT. Errors in passenger information can result in your being denied boarding privileges.
COVID VACCINATION - There are no requirements or restrictions regarding COVID Vaccinations at this time. Guests will be notified by Best of Times Travel of any changes to requirements or mandates that take place prior to our trip departure date. Best of Times Travel is not responsible for guests being denied boarding due to their inability to meet required mandates to sail.
Here are some important details regarding the finalization of your cruise booking once it is completed:
Official Cruise Booking - Once you have made your booking with Best of Times Travel on-line through this site you will receive an email notification that your reservation has been placed and payment received. This is NOT your official booking information with the cruise line. Shortly after your booking you will receive a secondary email directly from Best of Times Travel Office with your official Cruise Registration Number and Cabin Number for the Cruise. Any customers receiving a confirmation from our office with a Cabin Number that begins with a "GTY" means that your are guaranteed that cabin category or better on the ship. It means the ship is getting full and the cruise line would only guarantee you that category or better. If Best of Times Travel is unable to confirm your reservation with the Cruise Line you will be notified as such and a full refund of payments made upon registration will be issued.
Travel Insurance – If you have chosen the optional Chubb Travel Protection program, please print off a copy of the brochure for your records. This has important information on it regarding coverage and services provided by the insurance program.
Final Payment – Please note that final payment is due into our office no later than December 19th, 2025. Please note that our on-line booking system is set up with automated installment payments on your account instead of making one lump sum payment at the end. If you do not wish to be on the automated installment plan, please email our office at rtreat@bestoftimestravel..com and we will stop the automated payment plan. You will be notified via email closer to the final payment time that your balance is due. Please be reminded that failure to submit final payment on time may result in automatic cancellation and subsequent cancellation fees.
Final Documents - Please note that all of your final boarding documents will be available for you to print out on-line approximately 3 weeks prior to the sailing date. You will also receive email correspondence from Best of Times Travel outlining your transfer details to/from the Pier in Boston.
In the meantime if you have any questions or concerns regarding your booking please feel free to contact our office via email or you may call us at 603-554-8901.
Warmest Regards,
Best of Times Travel
All Components Listed Under EXCLUSIVE All-Inclusive Bundle
The gratuity for your Best of Times Travel Tour Manager is not included in your package. A suggested amount is $75 - $100 per person for the entire cruise.
