Antwerp

Explore three of Belgium’s most extraordinary cities – Brussels, Ghent and Antwerp – through their architectural landmarks and iconic experiences such as cruising the canals and sampling creamy Belgium chocolates.

NOTE: due to the amount of walking on this program, it is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or those who use a wheelchair or walker.

Day 1

Disembark the ship in Antwerp, meet your guide and begin an exploration of Antwerp before being checking in to your hotel for the next three nights.

This in-depth tour highlights Antwerp’s gorgeous architecture, medieval past and historical landmarks, beginning with the Central Railway Station. Opened in 1905, the stone-and-steel station has been meticulously restored and

can now accommodate even high-speed trains.

You will then visit the rooftop terrace of the modern MAS Museum for the ultimate view of Antwerp before continuing on foot into the city center, which is a pedestrian zone.

You will soon arrive in Grand Market Square, a popular gathering place in the atmospheric Old Town. Many of Antwerp’s most iconic symbols are there, including its gabled guild houses and wonderfully ornate town hall. The

statue in front of the town hall is of the mythical solider Brabo throwing a giant’s hand into the river, which alludes to the origin of the name Antwerp, which means “to throw a hand” in Dutch.

Continuing on, you will walk through cobblestoned Pie Alley, a surviving fragment of the narrow lanes from medieval times. Nearby, you will find Our Lady’s Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece whose spire soars above the

city, as it is the tallest cathedral in Belgium. During your interior visit, you will see the cathedral’s four priceless altarpieces, which were painted by the celebrated 17th-century artist Peter Paul Rubens, who lived in Antwerp most of his life.

Following your visit, transfer to your hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is at your leisure with lunch and dinner on your own.

Day 2

Get thoroughly acquainted with Belgium’s grand capital city on this day excursion that covers Brussels’ must-see attractions. After a leisurely drive, you will arrive at the Magritte Museum, which is dedicated to the life and works of Belgian surrealist artist René Magritte. Discover much about his works during a guided museum tour.

Afterwards the guide will take you to downtown Brussels for a 3-course lunch before leading you on a fascinating walk through the city center, covering highlights such as the Grand Market Square with its Baroque guild houses

and the bronze Manneke Pis fountain sculpture.

Your guided walk will end at a chocolate museum where you will learn all about how the best and freshest ingredients are transformed into the famous Belgian chocolates. You will also experience first-hand a demonstration by a chocolatier and may purchase some sweets, if you wish.

The guide will then take you back to the hotel, passing by landmarks such as the futuristic-shaped Atomium, the Royal Castle of Laeken and King Boudewijnstadium.

Dinner is on your own this evening.

Day 3

Start your journey in Ghent with a guided walk through the heart of this medieval gem. On the approach, you will see the city renowned three towers: the Belfry of Ghent, Saint Bavo Cathedral and Saint Nicholas’ church tower.

You will visit the cathedral before free time for lunch. Although a look at the famed Adoration of the Mystic Lamb altarpiece is not included in the cathedral tour you might return to see it on your own during free time.

You will continue your exploration of medieval Ghent by cruising its waterways by canal boat. The city sits on the confluence of two rivers and back in the 1300s, Ghent was one of northern Europe’s richest, most splendid cities. It retains much of that grandeur today.

Your relaxed and entertaining voyage along the canals will offer a unique vantage point of landmarks such as the Chinese Teahouses, Palace of Justice, Old Guildhalls and Castle of the Counts. You will also pass the fish market with its baroque Neptune façade, a 13th-century monastery and Ghent’s ancient port district and mercantile houses. On board, a sampling of three beers and snacks will be served.

After the canal cruise, you will return to your hotel. Dinner will be on your own.

Day 4

Following breakfast and check out, you will be transferred to the Brussels International Airport for you flight home. Should you have a late flight, luggage storage will be available at the hotel until your transfer.

Land Program Details Step by Step:

•Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. All program timings are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change.

•Itineraries with the most up to date details (at the time) will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

•The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.

•A departure transfer is not included if guests leave before the last day of the program.

Day 1

9:00am Drive to Antwerp Central Station.

9:45am Short inside visit to Antwerp Central Station.

10:15am Drive to MAS Museum for a beautiful view of the city & the cruise terminal from the roof terrace.

10:45am Visit to MAS Museum roof terrace.

11:30am Short drive to Antwerp City Center.

11:45am Guided walk to the Cathedral.

12:15pm Inside visit of the Cathedral.

1:00pm Guided walk back to the coach and transfer to the hotel.

2:00pm Arrival at hotel and check-in

The remainder of the day is at leisure

Lunch and dinner are on own

Overnight at the Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp or similar hotel

Day 2

AM Breakfast at the hotel

8:30am Transfer to Brussels

10:00am Visit the Magritte Museum

11:30am Transfer to the Brussels city center

11:45am Short walk to Grand Market Square

12:15pm 3-course lunch

1:45pm Guided walk-through Brussels

2:30pm Visit a chocolate museum with a demonstration

4:00pm Walk back to the coach

4:15pm Start panoramic drive through Brussels

6:00pm Arrive in Antwerp

Dinner on your own

Overnight at the Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp or similar hotel

Day 3

AM Breakfast at the hotel

9:00am Drive to Ghent

10:15am Arrive in Ghent for walking tour through the medieval city center

11:30am Visit St. Bavo Cathedral

12:15pm Free time around St. Bavo Cathedral for lunch on your own

2:45pm Walk to the canal boat with a stop to taste Ghent cuberdon sweets

3:30pm Private canal cruise with beer and snacks

4:30pm Walk back to the coach

4:45pm Transfer back to Antwerp

6:00pm Arrive at your hotel

Dinner on your own

Overnight at the Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp or similar hotel

Day 4

AM Breakfast at the hotel

12:00pm Check out time at the hotel

Transfers to the Brussels International Airport will be set up based on the flight details provided.

Extra Nights: If you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be transferred to the airport per the flight details provided. Check-out time is 12:00pm (subject to change). Meals other than breakfast are on your own after Day 4 of your program.

Transfers: All guests booking their flights independently are required to ensure the cruise line has their most up to date flight details so that transfers to the airport can be arranged. If flight details are not received 14 days before your cruise start date, transfers will not be arranged.

Should you book any extra nights on your own or your flight is not on the last day of the program, transfers are not included.

Should you have a late departing flight you may wish to book an extra night so that you have occupation of your room until your departure. You will be asked to vacate your room by 12:00pm. Day rooms can only be purchased directly through the hotel.

Expected Weather

The average temperature in September is 20º C (66º F).

What to Bring

Comfortable clothes and shoes, sun protection, umbrellas and a camera.

Currency

Euro

Electricity

220 volt (remember to bring a converter)

Documents and Visa Requirements

A valid passport is required.

Hotel

Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp

Leopoldstraat 26, 2000 Antwerpen.

Phone: +32 3 269 00 00

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards guests will be notified in advance. If guests are not notified of changes before departure, then the hotel(s) listed in this program will be used

Program includes:

•3 nights at the Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp or similar – deluxe room with breakfast and city tax and porterage of 2 suitcases per adult. Use of the Botanic Health club and Botanic health spa, as well.

•English-speaking tour guide

•Coach transport on Days 1, 2 and 3 as per itinerary above

•Private vehicle on departure from hotel to the Brussels airport

•All sightseeing and entrance fees per the itinerary above

•Meals: breakfast daily and lunch in Brussels

Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated departure information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, a departure transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.

Program Excludes:

•Personal expenses

•Hotel incidentals including room service and mini bar

•Meals and beverages where not listed

•Gratuities to the drivers and guides

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, gravel and natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation.

Please note: All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change.

Land programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program.

Explore three of Belgium’s most extraordinary cities – Brussels, Ghent and Antwerp – through their architectural landmarks and iconic experiences such as cruising the canals and sampling Belgian treats.

NOTE: due to the amount of walking on this program, it is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or those who use a wheelchair or walker.

DAY 1

After arriving at the Brussels International Airport (Zaventem), you are met in the Arrivals Hall at the Java Coffee Corner and transferred to your hotel in Antwerp.

Hotel check in is at 3:00pm.

Depending on your hour of arrival, rooms may not yet be available. If you arrive earlier than check-in time, luggage storage is available at Reception.

The remainder of the day will be spent at leisure. There is plenty to see in Antwerp such as the Grand Market Square & the City Hall, the Het Eilandje (neighborhood around the MAS Museum) and the Rubens House.

DAY 2

Embark on an enriching journey to Brussels, the vibrant capital of Belgium. The day begins with a comfortable transfer to the heart of Brussels, where we'll dive into the surreal world of René Magritte at the renowned Magritte Museum.

Following this artistic exploration, venture into the bustling city center for a guided walk. Along the way, soak in the grandeur of the Grand Market Square, marvel at the elegant architecture of St. Hubert's Arcade, and encounter the beloved symbol of Brussels, the Manneken Pis.

After a delicious lunch at one of Brussels' charming cafes, you’ll have ample free time to indulge in some leisurely shopping.

As the afternoon unfolds, re-group for a panoramic drive through the city, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Royal Castle of Laeken, the striking Atomium (with a brief photo stop), and the majestic King Boudewijnstadium.

Conclude your Brussels adventure and return to Antwerp, enriched by the beauty and diversity of Belgium's capital city.

DAY 3

Embark on a mesmerizing journey to Ghent, where history and beauty intertwine. The day begins with a drive to this charming city, setting the stage for an unforgettable day.

Upon arrival, begin with a guided city walk. From the historic Bijloke to the bustling city center, traverse iconic landmarks such as the renowned row of three towers, the picturesque old port, the atmospheric meathouse, and the majestic city hall.

Your exploration continues with a visit to the magnificent St. Bavo Cathedral, where you'll be captivated by its architectural grandeur. Following the cathedral visit, you'll have ample free time around St. Bavo Cathedral to savor a leisurely lunch. For those eager to delve deeper into Ghent's cultural treasures, there's the option to explore the revered Adoration of the Mystic Lamb independently.

As the afternoon unfolds, embark on a delightful stroll to the canal boat pontoon, indulging in a taste of the famous Ghent Cuberdons (confection) along the way.

Next, we'll step aboard a private canal cruise, drifting through the historic city while enjoying refreshing aperitifs, including local beers and delectable snacks.

Return to your hotel. Dinner will be on your own.

Later in the evening, step back onto the historic streets with an expert guide leading the way through the heart of Antwerp's city center on a captivating pub-crawl with a twist. This journey takes you on a guided exploration of three of local Antwerp cafés, each with its own unique character and stories to share.

At each stop, you'll have the chance to sample a selection of Belgium's finest beers and soak up the vibrant ambiance of these beloved establishments.

Throughout the evening, your guide will regale you with fascinating anecdotes and insider tips, providing a deeper understanding of Antwerp's culture and traditions. Lace up your walking shoes and raise a glass to adventure and a night to remember!

DAY 4

Following breakfast and check out, embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting city of Antwerp, filled with architectural marvels and cultural treasures. Begin with a scenic drive to the iconic Antwerp Port House, where you'll have the perfect opportunity for a photo stop to capture its breathtaking exterior design.

Next, ascend to the rooftop terrace of the MAS Museum for panoramic views of the cityscape. While you won't delve into the museum's exhibits, this vantage point offers a stunning perspective of Antwerp's beauty.

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Antwerp-Central railway station, a masterpiece of Beaux-Arts architecture, during a leisurely stroll through its magnificent halls.

Your exploration continues with a guided city walk to the historic Our Lady's Cathedral, where you'll step inside to admire its awe-inspiring interior. Marvel at the intricate craftsmanship of its Gothic architecture and delve into the rich history of this sacred site.

You’ll meander back to the ship, passing through the bustling Market Square and the charming Vlaeykensgang alleyway, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Antwerp's streets.

Following your visit, you will walk to the pier and enter the cruise terminal for check-in.

Note: Luggage will be taken to the port while guests are in the city.

Land Program Details Step by Step

•The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. Program times are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change.

•Itineraries with the up-to-date details will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. You will then receive a final itinerary from our ground operator with a Welcome Letter upon arrival or at your hotel. Please review the letter and your final itinerary carefully for further amendments.

•The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.

•Guests failing to arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program will be considered no-shows and their hotel space released.

Extra Nights

•If you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be met as per the flight details provided and transferred to your hotel. Check-in is 3:00pm (subject to change). Meals other than breakfast, as well as activities, are on your own until Day 2 of the program.

•If you have an early-arriving flight, you may wish to book an extra night as your room will not be ready for occupation until approximately 3:00pm.

•If you book extra nights on your own, transfers are not included.

Day 1

Arrive at the Brussels international Airport (Zaventem).

You will be met in the Arrivals Hall at the Java Coffee Corner and transferred to your hotel.

3:00pm Check-in time at the hotel

The remainder of the day is at your leisure.

Meals on own

Overnight at Sapphire House or similar hotel

Meet and Greet and transfers

•Final cruise documents will be emailed 21 days prior to sailing. The local ground agent’s telephone number will be on page 1, if you can’t locate the meet-and-greet representative upon arrival. Be aware that the representative may be assisting others and may not be in sight when you first exit Customs and the luggage claim area.

•Look for someone holding a sign with the cruise line logo and possibly your name. If in doubt, ask the airport staff to direct you to the meeting area for transfers or to page our representative.

•Meet and Greet and transfers are arranged for guests arriving on Day 1 of a land program or for extra nights booked through the cruise line and are arranged based on the flight details received by guests at least 14 days before sailing. Guests arriving independently before the program start date will not have a transfer included.

•If we have not received your flight details or your flights have changed, and the Destination Services Land Team has not been notified, then a transfer cannot be provided, and guests will be responsible for getting to the land program hotel at their own expense. Please immediately contact our Reservations Department for any flight changes before departure.

Day 2

AM Breakfast at the hotel

8:30am Transfer to Brussels

10:00am Visit the Magritte Museum Brussels

11:30am Transfer to Brussels City Center

11:45am Short walk to restaurant

12:15pm 3-course lunch at a local restaurant

1:45pm Guided walk in Brussels passing by major highlights such as Grand Market Square, St. Hubert’s Arcade and Manneke Pis

2:30pm Free time

4:00pm Walk back to the coach

4:15pm Start of panoramic drive passing by Royal Castle of Laeken, Atomium (short photo stop) and King Boudewijnstadium

5:00pm Drive back to your hotel

Dinner on your own

Overnight at Sapphire House or similar hotel

Day 3

AM Breakfast at the hotel

9:00am Drive to Ghent

10:15am Canal boat transfer to city center

10:30am Guided city walk from Bijloke to city center passing by the famous row of 3 towers, old Port meathouse, City Hall

12:00pm Visit to St. Bavo Cathedral (not the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb).

12:30pm Free time around St. Bavo Cathedral for lunch. Possibility for the guests to visit the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb on their own.

2:00pm Walk to the canal boat pontoon passing by a shop to taste the famous Ghent Cuberdons

2:30pm Private canal cruise in the historic city of Ghent with aperitif (beers and snacks on board)

3:30pm End of canal boat ride, walk back to the coach

3:45pm Drive back to your hotel

Dinner on your own

8:00pm Guided pub-crawl throughout the city centre, stops at 3 local Antwerp cafés

10:00pm Return to your hotel

Overnight at Sapphire House or similar hotel

Day 4

AM Breakfast at the hotel and check out

8:30am Drive to the Antwerp Port House

9:00am Photo stop at the Antwerp Port House (exterior view)

9:30am Drive to MAS Museum

9:45am View Antwerp from MAS Museum Roof Terrace (no visit of actual museum)

10:15am Drive to Railway Station Antwerpen-Central area

10:30am Short walk to and visit Railway Station Antwerpen-Central

11:15am Drive to Stadsschouwburg Antwerp

11:30am Guided city walk to Our Lady’s Cathedral

12:00pm Inside visit of Our Lady’s Cathedral

12:30pm Guided walk back to the ship passing Market Square and Vlaeykensgang

1:30pm End at cruise terminal for embarkation

Expected Weather

June, July and August are the hottest months in Brussels. The average high is 73.4°F (23°C) and the average low is

57°F (14°C).

What to Bring

Comfortable clothes and shoes, sun protection, umbrella and a camera

Currency

Euro

Electricity

220 volts. We recommend bringing a universal travel adaptor for electric devices.

Documents and Visa Requirements

A valid passport is required

Hotel

Sapphire House

Lange Nieuwstraat 20/24, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium

Phone: +32 3 201 03 70

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards guests will be notified in advance. If guests are not notified of changes before departure, then the hotel(s) listed in this program will be used

Program includes:

•3 nights at Sapphire House or similar hotel in a Deluxe room with breakfast, city tax and porterage of 2 suitcases per adult

•Touring and entrances per the itinerary

•All sightseeing and entrance fees per the itinerary above

•Lunch in Brussels

•Pub crawl

Please Note: Guests booking their own flights independently of the cruise line are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated arrival information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, an arrival transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.

Program Excludes:

•Personal expenses

•Hotel incidentals including room service and mini bar

•Meals and beverages where not listed

•Gratuities to the drivers and guides

•Spa services

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, gravel and natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation.

Please note: All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change.

Land programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program. Guests failing to arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program will be considered no-shows and their hotel space released.

Explore three of Belgium’s most extraordinary cities – Brussels, Ghent and Antwerp – through their architectural landmarks and iconic experiences such as cruising the canals and sampling creamy Belgium chocolates.

NOTE: due to the amount of walking on this program, it is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or those who use a wheelchair or walker.

Day 1

After arriving at Brussels Airport (Zaventem), you will be transferred to a hotel in Antwerp for check-in.

Depending on your hour of arrival, rooms may not yet be available. If you arrive earlier than check-in time, we are not able to guarantee that your room will be ready. You can, however, store your luggage at the reception.

The remainder of the day will be spent at leisure. There is plenty to see in Antwerp such as the Grand Market Square & the City Hall, the Het Eilandje neighborhood around the MAS Museum and the Rubens House.

Day 2

Get thoroughly acquainted with Belgium’s grand capital city on this day excursion that covers Brussels’ must-see attractions. After a leisurely drive, you will arrive at the Magritte Museum, which is dedicated to the life and works of Belgian surrealist artist René Magritte. Discover much about his works during a guided museum tour.

Afterwards the guide will take you to downtown Brussels for a 3-course lunch before leading you on a fascinating walk through the city center, covering highlights such as the Grand Market Square with its Baroque guild houses

and the bronze Manneke Pis fountain sculpture.

Your guided walk will end at a chocolate museum where you will learn all about how the best and freshest ingredients are transformed into the famous Belgian chocolates. You will also experience first-hand a demonstration by a chocolatier and may purchase some sweets, if you wish.

The guide will then take you back to the hotel, passing by landmarks such as the futuristic-shaped Atomium, the Royal Castle of Laeken and King Boudewijnstadium.

Day 3

Start your journey in Ghent with a guided walk through the heart of this medieval gem. On the approach, you will see the city renowned three towers: the Belfry of Ghent, Saint Bavo Cathedral and Saint Nicholas’ church tower.

You will visit the cathedral before free time for lunch. Although a look at the famed Adoration of the Mystic Lamb altarpiece is not included in the cathedral tour, you might return to see it on your own during free time.

You will continue your exploration of medieval Ghent by cruising its waterways by canal boat. The city sits on the confluence of two rivers and back in the 1300s, Ghent was one of northern Europe’s richest, most splendid cities. It retains much of that grandeur today.

Your relaxed and entertaining voyage along the canals will offer a unique vantage point of landmarks such as the Chinese Teahouses, Palace of Justice, Old Guildhalls and Castle of the Counts. You will also pass the fish market with its baroque Neptune façade, a 13th-century monastery and Ghent’s ancient port district and mercantile houses. On board, a sampling of three beers and snacks will be served.

After the canal cruise, you will return to the hotel. Dinner will be on your own.

Day 4

Today you will have your last exploration of Antwerp before being brought to the ship for check-in for your cruise. In the morning your luggage will be loaded into a coach. You will then enjoy an enlightening, in-depth tour

of Antwerp that highlights its gorgeous architecture, medieval past and historical landmarks, beginning with the Central Railway Station. Opened in 1905, the stone-and-steel station has been meticulously restored and can now

accommodate even high-speed trains.

You will then visit the rooftop terrace of the modern MAS Museum for the ultimate view of Antwerp before continuing on foot into the city center, which is a pedestrian zone.

You will soon arrive in Grand Market Square, a popular gathering place in the atmospheric Old Town. Many of Antwerp’s most iconic symbols are there, including its gabled guild houses and wonderfully ornate town hall. The

statue in front of the town hall is of the mythical solider Brabo throwing a giant’s hand into the river, which alludes to the origin of the name Antwerp, which means “to throw a hand” in Dutch.

Continuing on, you will walk through cobblestoned Pie Alley, a surviving fragment of the narrow lanes from medieval times. Nearby, you will find Our Lady’s Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece whose spire soars above the

city, as it is the tallest cathedral in Belgium. During your interior visit, you will see the cathedral’s four priceless altarpieces, which were painted by the celebrated 17th-century artist Peter Paul Rubens, who lived in Antwerp most of his life. Following your visit, you will walk to the pier and enter the cruise terminal for check-in.

Land Program Details Step by Step

•The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. Program times are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change.

•Itineraries with the up-to-date details will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. You will then receive a final itinerary from our ground operator with a Welcome Letter upon arrival or at your hotel. Please review the letter and your final itinerary carefully for further amendments.

•The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.

•Guests failing to arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program will be considered no-shows and their hotel space released.

Extra Nights

•If you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be met as per the flight details provided and transferred to your hotel. Check-in is 3:00pm (subject to change). Meals other than breakfast, as well as activities, are on your own until Day 2 of the program.

•If you have an early-arriving flight, you may wish to book an extra night as your room will not be ready for occupation until approximately 3:00pm.

•If you book extra nights on your own, transfers are not included.

Day 1

Arrive at the Brussels international Airport (Zaventem).

You will be met in the arrivals hall at the Java coffee corner and transferred to your hotel to spend the afternoon

and the evening at your leisure.

Check-in at your hotel is 3pm. Although every effort will be made to have rooms available sooner, this

cannot be guaranteed.

Meet and Greet and transfers

•Final cruise documents will be emailed 21 days prior to sailing. The local ground agent’s telephone number will be on page 1, if you can’t locate the meet-and-greet representative upon arrival. Be aware that the representative may be assisting others and may not be in sight when you first exit Customs and the luggage claim area.

•Look for someone holding a sign with the cruise line logo and possibly your name. If in doubt, ask the airport staff to direct you to the meeting area for transfers or to page our representative.

•Meet and Greet and transfers are arranged for guests arriving on Day 1 of a land program or for extra nights booked through the cruise line and are arranged based on the flight details received by guests at least 14 days before sailing. Guests arriving independently before the program start date will not have a transfer included.

•If we have not received your flight details or your flights have changed, and the Destination Services Land Team has not been notified, then a transfer cannot be provided, and guests will be responsible for getting to the land program hotel at their own expense. Please immediately contact our Reservations Department for any flight changes before departure.

Day 2

AM Breakfast at the hotel

8:30am Transfer to Brussels

10:00am Visit the Magritte Museum

11:30am Transfer to the Brussels city center

11:45am Short walk to Grand Market Square

12:15pm 3-course lunch

1:45pm Guided walk through Brussels

2:30pm Visit a chocolate museum with a demonstration

4:00pm Walk back to the coach

4:15pm Start panoramic drive through Brussels

6:00pm Arrive in Antwerp

Dinner on your own

Overnight at the Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp or similar hotel

Day 3

AM Breakfast at the hotel

9:00am Drive to Ghent

10:15am Arrive in Ghent for walking tour through the medieval city center

11:30am Visit St. Bavo Cathedral

12:15pm Free time around St. Bavo Cathedral for lunch on your own

2:45pm Walk to the canal boat with a stop to taste Ghent cuberdon sweets

3:30pm Private canal cruise with beer and snacks

4:30pm Walk back to the coach

4:45pm Transfer back to Antwerp

6:00pm Arrive at your hotel

Dinner on your own

Overnight at the Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp or similar hotel

Day 4

AM Breakfast at the hotel

8:30am Drive to the Antwerp Central Station

9:00am Inside visit of the Antwerp Central Station

9:30am Drive to the MAS Museum

10:00am Visit the MAS Museum and enjoy a roof terrace view

10:45am Drive to Antwerp city center

11:00am Guided walk to the cathedral

11:30am Inside visit of the cathedral

12:15pm Guided walk to the cruise terminal for check-in

1:30pm Arrive at Antwerp cruise terminal for embarkation

Expected Weather

The average temperature in September is 20º C (66º F).

What to Bring

Comfortable clothes and shoes, sun protection, umbrellas and a camera.

Currency

Euro

Electricity

220 volt (remember to bring a converter)

Documents and Visa Requirements

A valid passport is required.

Hotel

Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp

Leopoldstraat 26, 2000 Antwerpen.

Phone: +32 3 269 00 00

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards guests will be notified in advance. If guests are not notified of changes before departure, then the hotel(s) listed in this program will be used

Program includes:

•3 nights at the Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp or similar – deluxe room with breakfast and city tax and porterage of 2 suitcases per adult. Use of the Botanic Health club and Botanic health spa, as well.

•English-speaking tour guide

•Private vehicle on arrival from airport to hotel

•Coach transport on Days 2, 3 and 4 as per itinerary above

•All sightseeing and entrance fees per the itinerary above

•Meals: breakfast daily and lunch in Brussels

Please Note: Guests booking their own flights independently of the cruise line are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated arrival information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, an arrival transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.

Program Excludes:

•Personal expenses

•Hotel incidentals including room service and mini bar

•Meals and beverages where not listed

•Gratuities to the drivers and guides

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, gravel and natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation.

Please note: All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change.

Land programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program. Guests failing to arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program will be considered no-shows and their hotel space released.