DUTCH AND BELGIAN WATERWAYS
Why Sail the Dutch and Belgian Waterways
Sailing the Dutch and Belgian waterways offers a unique and charming river cruise experience, allowing travelers to explore the rich history, cultural heritage, and picturesque landscapes of these countries. As you cruise along the canals and rivers, you'll be treated to picturesque landscapes, including charming windmills, colorful tulip fields (in season), quaint villages, and historic towns. Cities like Amsterdam, Bruges, Ghent, and Rotterdam offer a mix of architectural marvels, historic landmarks, and cultural treasures. From the iconic canals of Amsterdam to the medieval beauty of Bruges, you can explore the unique character of each city.
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Cruise Lines That Sail the Dutch & Belgian Waterways
Amadeus, AmaWaterways, Avalon, Riviera, Uniworld, Viking
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Length and Location of the Dutch & Belgian Waterways
The Netherlands and Belgium have an extensive network of waterways, including rivers, canals, and lakes. These waterways are part of the larger Rhine-Meuse-Scheldt Delta, which is one of the most densely populated and economically developed areas in Europe.
Source of the Dutch & Belgian Waterways
The Rhine-Meuse-Scheldt Delta is formed by the confluence of the Rhine, Meuse, and Scheldt rivers and their tributaries.
Countries the Dutch & Belgian Waterways Flow Through
Netherlands, Belgium
Notable Cities Along the Dutch & Belgian Waterways
Amsterdam (Netherlands), Rotterdam (Netherlands), Antwerp (Belgium), Ghent (Belgium), Brussels (Belgium), Bruges (Belgium)
Importance of the Dutch & Belgian Waterways
Barge transportation is a common sight on the Dutch and Belgian waterways. Barges, or inland vessels, carry goods such as containers, bulk cargo, and even oversized cargo. Due to differences in water levels and to control the flow of water, locks are an essential part of the Dutch and Belgian waterways. Locks allow boats to navigate between different sections of the waterways, enabling them to overcome changes in elevation and facilitating the movement of vessels.
Cultural Significance of the Dutch & Belgian Waterways
Some sections of the Dutch and Belgian waterways have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. For example, the Amsterdam Canal Ring, a network of canals in the historic center of Amsterdam, is recognized for its cultural and historical significance.