Belgium Cruises

Belgium, renowned for its medieval towns, Renaissance architecture, and charming canals, is a captivating European destination that offers a delightful mix of culture, history, and delicious cuisine. Known for its world-famous chocolate, waffles, and beer, Belgium invites travellers to indulge their senses while exploring its vibrant cities and stunning countryside. Fun fact: Belgium is home to more than 3,000 varieties of beer—so there’s plenty to discover! Choosing to cruise to Belgium allows you to explore multiple idyllic ports, including Bruges, Antwerp, and Brussels, all while enjoying the luxurious amenities and comforts onboard your ship.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Belgium

• Cunard operates a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 featuring itineraries that include visits to Belgium. The Queen Victoria and Queen Anne are known for their luxurious atmosphere, exquisite dining experiences, and elegant evening entertainment. Cunard is particularly celebrated for its traditions, including afternoon tea and grand balls. Most departures typically take place from Southampton or Rome, enabling seamless exploration of Belgium’s charming cities.
• Norwegian Cruise Line includes a fleet of 20 ships, with 6 that offer itineraries to Belgium. The Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Star stand out for their freestyle cruising concept, allowing guests the flexibility to choose their dining schedules and entertainment options. With exciting activities ranging from Broadway-style shows to themed dining, these ships keep the entire family entertained. Departures commonly occur from Southampton or Reykjavik, giving numerous options for your trip to Belgium.
• P&O Cruises operates a fleet size of 7, with 6 focusing on itineraries that feature Belgium. The Azura and Britannia are popular among travellers for their rich array of onboard activities and approachable atmosphere, including live music and film screenings. Most departures occur from Southampton or Valletta, making it easy for UK cruisers to embark on their Belgian adventure.
• Princess Cruises features a fleet of 17 ships, with 7 offering itineraries to Belgium. The Sky Princess and Coral Princess stand out with their multitude of onboard amenities, including movie nights and themed dining experiences. These cruises usually depart from Southampton or Rome, ensuring convenient access to embark on your voyage.
• MSC Cruises has a fleet of 23 ships, with 2 that feature itineraries to Belgium. The MSC Preziosa and MSC Virtuosa are known for their immense size and family-friendly offerings, including aquaparks and an array of dining options. Departures typically take place from Southampton or Zeebrugge, creating easy embarkation points to start your exploration of this enchanting region.

Luxury and Small Ship Options in Belgium

• Oceania Cruises consists of 8 ships, with 2 that provide itineraries featuring Belgium. The Marina and Sirena are known for their culinary excellence and luxurious accommodations, offering guests a refined cruise experience. Most departures occur from Southampton or Amsterdam, ensuring a fitting launch point for your land of chocolate and history exploration.
• Azamara Cruises operates a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 focused on itineraries that include Belgium. The Azamara Onward and Azamara Quest are noted for their emphasis on immersive local experiences with late-night port stays, allowing you to dive deeper into the culture and nightlife. Departures frequently happen from Lisbon or Copenhagen, enhancing the pleasant transition into your Belgian cruise journey.
• Seabourn offers a luxurious fleet of 5 ships, with 1 dedicated to Belgium itineraries. The Seabourn Ovation focuses on providing an all-inclusive luxury experience alongside outstanding amenities and personalised service. Departures typically occur from London or Amsterdam, ensuring you step aboard this magnificent ship in style.
• Explora Journeys operates 2 ships, both featuring itineraries including Belgium. The EXPLORA I and II focus on wellness and luxury, ensuring every guest enjoys a comfortable and refined experience. Departures typically take place from Barcelona or Miami, providing a smooth entry to your enchanting cultural journey.
• Fred Olsen has a fleet of 3 ships, with 2 offering itineraries that feature Belgium. The Balmoral and Bolette are loved for their welcoming environments and classic cruising experience. Departures usually take place from Southampton or Newcastle upon Tyne, making it easy for UK travellers eager to discover the gem that is Belgium.

Top Harbours to Explore in the Netherlands

• Bruges – Often called the “Venice of the North,” Bruges is known for its picturesque canals and stunning medieval architecture. Explore the Markt square, visit the Belfry Tower, or take a romantic boat ride along the canals. Make sure to sample delicious chocolate and local specialties, such as Flemish stew or mussels.
• Antwerp – This vibrant city is famous for its diamond district and artistic heritage. Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady to admire works by Rubens and explore the stunning architectural gems including the Antwerp Central Station. Don’t miss the chance to taste local Belgian fries, especially when paired with a variety of delectable dipping sauces.
• Ghent – A hidden gem filled with history and charm, Ghent boasts a picturesque medieval castle and beautiful canals. Explore the Gravensteen Castle or take a stroll through the vibrant street market to taste local produce. Be sure to try the traditional spiced beef stew, known as “stoverij,” at a local bistro.
• Brussels – The capital city of Belgium, Brussels is famous for its stunning Grand Place and rich history. Explore the Atomium, visit the Royal Palace, and indulge in the local waffles and chocolates. Don’t forget to try a traditional Belgian beer; the choices are plentiful!
• Ostend – This coastal city is known for its lovely beaches and lively atmosphere. Spend a day soaking up the sun or enjoy a bike ride along the coastline to see the beautiful dunes. Be sure to visit the local seafood market for the freshest catch and enjoy a meal at one of the beachfront restaurants.

When to Cruise to the Costa del Sol

The weather in Belgium makes it an attractive destination throughout the year. From January to March, winter reigns with temperatures generally ranging from 0°C to 10°C, providing a peaceful atmosphere for sightseeing without heavy tourist traffic. Spring (April to June) brings milder temperatures around 10°C to 20°C, perfect for enjoying blooming flowers and local festivals. The summer months (July to September) see pleasant weather, with temperatures climbing as high as 25°C, making it a popular time for tourists exploring the beautiful scenery and local events. Autumn (October to December) cools down to an average of 5°C to 15°C, offering beautiful landscapes and the chance to enjoy harvest festivals in a more relaxed ambiance.

Costs of Cruising in the Costa del Sol

A typical one-week cruise to Belgium generally ranges from £700 to £1,400, depending on the cruise line and the type of accommodations selected. Luxury cruises generally begin at around £3,500, potentially rising based on the level of service you choose. Dining onshore typically costs around £10 to £30 for excellent local produce, while drinks average around £3 to £8, allowing you to savour the rich tastes of traditional Belgian cuisine.

With its captivating history, scenic canals, and charming architecture, Belgium is a destination you won’t want to miss! Now is the perfect time to book your cruise holiday via Cruise1st and embark on a delightful journey through this beautiful European country!