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Historically, the Netherlands used a waterlinie, a series of “water lines” many miles long, as an ingenious means of defense, made up of waterworks and fortresses. It’s not surprising in a country that is so focused on keeping the sea at bay and regulating its water that the water itself would be used for defense: strips of land could be flooded during an attack to keep the enemy out. Today, the Netherlands still has more than a hundred fortresses along water lines. Many have become nature reserves, or there is…

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that the Dutch are water management experts! Anyone who cycles and sails through the Dutch landscape will see structures everywhere that ensure that our feet stay dry. More than half of the Netherlands is below sea level, after all, so locks, pumping stations and dikes are badly needed. For centuries, water even played a role in defense. Those who don’t have an eye for all that skilled engineering and history can just pass it by. But that’s the nice thing about a cycling and…

Especially on bicycles and boats it is easy to see what the Netherlands is doing about water management. You will pass dikes, weirs, locks and pumping stations. Tour leader Thomas Wuts explains what he finds so special about water management and which stories he likes to share with his guests. What do you find so fascinating about water management? “It is in part what makes the Netherlands unique and shapes our character. Water management is so wrapped up in who we are and how we live. Fascinating! I actually only…

If you would like to book a trip for your own group with Boat Bike Tours, there is no getting around Paula; she is your first point of contact. She will listen to your wishes and works with you to decide which trip and which ship would best suit your group. She’ll also help you with organizing the trip. If anyone knows Boat Bike Tours inside-out, it’s her: she’s been with Boat Bike Tours for 28 years! That’s why we asked her what to look out for when organizing a…

Boat Bike Tours offers something for everyone and every tour is different. Whether you want someone to be your guide or you prefer more independence, anything is possible! In case you need help deciding, here are the main differences between guided and independent tours: Independent cycling If you prefer to make your own plans, independent cycling is ideal. A whole day ahead of you with complete freedom: you decide how fast to ride, how often and where to stop, where to have a cup of coffee or eat your lunch.…

The time is past when traveling solo was something unusual and strange. These days, many travelers choose to travel solo, even when they are in a relationship or have a family. It may be a matter of convenience – I have time off while my partner doesn’t – or it may be a matter of choice – I prefer to be by myself. Either way, traveling solo can be a very sociable experience. You may prefer your own company, so being alone is fine for you. Otherwise, on a Boat…

The village of Kinderdijk, near Rotterdam, is home to perhaps the most famous windmills in the Netherlands. In the mid 1700s, 20 windmills were built to pump water out of nearby low-lying polders. In the following centuries, the 19 surviving windmills have become a symbol of Dutch water management and are now a major tourist attraction. Here are six lesser-known facts about Kinderdijk and its renowned windmills. 1. No one knows where “Kinderdijk” really got its name The most famous story behind the name Kinderdijk is from a legendary tale…

Valentine’s Day is coming up! When we’re going through such tough times, it’s more important than ever to create positive, hopeful feelings. What could be better than to be inspired – to dream! – about your next trip? Especially when you can actually make it happen! Whether you are part of a couple or a solo traveler, here are some “dreamstarters” for you! WHO do you dream of traveling with? You may be single and dream of traveling solo. You may NOT be single and still dream of traveling solo!…

While it’s certainly not guaranteed, occasionally people are lucky enough to find a special someone on a Boat Bike Tour. Tour leader Fred tells the story of meeting his wife on the Gandalf: On May 7, 2016, I started my work on the Gandalf to lead one of my favorite tours along the IJssel River in the east of the Netherlands: the Hansa Highlights Tour. Meeting Kris During the boarding procedures, I met Kristine. She came on board with a local Dutch friend of hers, who, as a kind of…

If you’re looking for a great way to get a small group together for a memorable experience, chartering a ship is a perfect solution! Chartering a ship for your group has lots of advantages over meeting halls and hotels. On a Boat Bike Tour barge, you can take in the scenery from the boat or on a bike ride together. Together, you can all enjoy the excellent meals served on board. As the organizer, you would have plenty of input into the planning of the trip. See The top six…