Discover The Keukenhof Tulip Gardens On An Adult Only Cruise

For over-40s who want to enjoy a fun holiday experience with likeminded travellers, an adult only cruise of Amsterdam’s tranquil waterways provides the perfect opportunity for relaxing and sightseeing. 

While there are a great number of options from which to choose for an adult only cruise, if you enjoy getting out into nature, and have a special interest in flowers, an Amsterdam waterways cruise itinerary that takes in the stunning Keukenhof Tulip Gardens is a trip tailor-made for success.

The Picturesque Keukenhof 

Billed as the most beautiful springtime gardens in the world, in 2020 Keukenhofwill be open from March 21 through until May 10. Encompassing 32 hectares of space and more than 800 varieties of tulips, over seven million bulbs are planted in the autumn in order to create the joyful profusion of colour when they bloom. Along with the inspirational floral plantings, there are continuous events, shows and displays of artwork.

Following a different theme each year, in 2020 (their 71st year) the theme is World of Colours. Everything from the way the tulips are planted to the artworks and events are geared towards the annual theme, which this year promises to create a truly spectacular experience. 

Immerse in the Ambience

The best way to ensure you get the full benefit of this magnificent display of floral blooms is simply to follow the more than 15kms of hiking trails that lead around the gardens. As you walk at a relaxed pace, at every turn you’ll be faced with intricate displays of tulips, tranquil ponds, and a range of shows, artworks, sculptures and pavilions. It offers an absolutely charming ambience, with the delicate, ever-present scent of flowers hanging in the air.

When to Visit

Depending on the itinerary of your adult only cruise of Amsterdam’s waterways, anytime during the season that the gardens are open is a good time to visit. It can roughly be divided into three different periods, with the following a rough guide for when to see your favourites.

First: Tulips in the indoor pavilions, crocuses and daffodils outside

Second: Hyacinths and early tulips in the outdoors

Third: Tulips outdoors and others at indoor flower shows 

Get a Different View from the Whisper Boats

As an alternative to exploring on foot, another way to take in the surrounding landscape is to take a tour on a ‘whisper boat’. These super quiet electric vessels glide effortlessly through the waterways, accompanied by an interesting commentary about the events and the local region’s history of flower production. A trip takes about an hour and is ideal for those who find walking a little too much like hard work!

Get Ready to Go

If an adult only cruise of Amsterdam’s beautiful waterways is top of your wish list, the best advice is to utilise the services of a reputable specialist tour operator so they can take care of all the details. Companies like this have the skills, contacts and experience to create the perfect itineraries, including the chance to explore Amsterdam’s iconic Keukenhof Tulip Gardens in style.

Author Plate

Perry Mahoney is the Director of GN Holidays, a holiday company specialising in adult only cruise itineraries and other excursions for the over 40s. If you're looking to enjoy a much-needed break sailing along the Rhine, a getaway with non-stop 60s and 70s sounds or a just an opportunity to bond with some like-minded travellers, GN Holidays will be sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.