When vacationers consider a European barge vacation, they usually think of France. The rivers and canals of the tiny Netherlands and Belgium, however, are every bit as appealing. Here you can walk and cycle, as well as visit centuries-old town halls, museums filled with Dutch Masters, and Holland's windmills, dikes, and flower markets.

Our recommended barges—the 22-passenger Princesse Royale and the sister barges Marjorie (8 passengers) and Marjorie II (12 passengers)—wander through the low countries' cities, coastal villages, and countryside during two distinctive "seasons." They are available as whole-boat charters and on a per-cabin basis.

All three barges celebrate "Tulip Time," March through the middle of May, when Holland's renowned floral displays grab the spotlight. During the "summer" season, which extends from mid May through early November, the Princesse Royale visits the charming Belgian towns of Bruge and Ghent, as well as a handful of Dutch villages.

Spring 2001