Magnifique IV

  Magnifique IV Bruges to Amsterdam
Belgium, Netherlands

This trip fulfilled our expectations wonderfully. The guides were great, kept us moving, gave interesting history at stops along the route and always were helpful and friendly. The food was first class and the suite was fine. One suggestion - bring a Tupperware type dish to put your lunch (sandwich, cheese, olives etc) into. You’ll be very grateful you did!

  Magnifique IV Amsterdam to Bruges
Netherlands, Belgium

Knowledgeable and helpful staff. Well paced tour with great food.

  Magnifique IV Amsterdam to Bruges
Netherlands, Belgium

This adventure far exceeded my expectations. The guids were informative and friendly and very confident guiding 32 of us on bicycles into very busy Cities. This is something that I personally had never done however I felt comfortable with their guidance

  Magnifique IV Amsterdam to Bruges
Netherlands, Belgium

I can't think of the most memorable....having our own "home" for the week was wonderful. The captain and staff were superb and the chef was exceptional. Bike rides were great and the guides full of info and enthusiasm.

  Magnifique IV Bruges to Amsterdam
Belgium, Netherlands

Riding along the Belgian and Netherland countrysides and stopping at the magnificent windmills were the highlights of the trip, but every ride and scene were fabulous! Acres of brilliantly colored flowers, sheep, cows, horses, vast pastures and canals were seemingly everywhere for our eyes to take in. And the instant friends we made, our wonderful guide Corrie and the support staff helped to make the trip seamless. Having e-bikes allowed us to simply glide along enjoying the incredible views.
Our previous bike and barge tour stopped at ports with vibrant evening walking tours which were lacking on this trip. And the food for us to make daily lunches never varied. But overall we had a wonderful experience that we recommend to all of our friends!

  Magnifique IV Bruges to Amsterdam
Belgium, Netherlands

The Magnifique IV ship was lovely and the food was excellent. The entire crew was friendly and accommodated special requests. The biking in Netherlands is mainly flat so I suggest using hybrid bike rather than an ebike. However, currently the tour only has 28" wheel hybrid bikes available so if your height is on the shorter spectrum and you're interested in riding a hybrid bike, I suggest emailing Tripsite.com in advance to see if they will be able to provide bike. Tripsite.com staff is friendly and very responsive in replying to emails.

  Magnifique IV Bruges to Amsterdam
Belgium, Netherlands

It was an absolute blast. The team on our boat were fantastic! I would highly recommend.

  Magnifique IV Bruges to Amsterdam
Belgium, Netherlands

The biking was fabulous. The crew members were fun relaxed and very accommodating.The bikes were very easy to handle and perfect for the trip. I loved them!The barge was beautiful and more spacious than I imagined. I had an excellent time on this trip and would highly recommend it.

  Magnifique IV Bruges to Amsterdam
Belgium, Netherlands

There are so many beautiful sights to see along the biking paths and roads. A guided tour is the way to go in my opinion so one can relax and just take in all of the sights without having to be concerned about finding the next turn. The incredible and friendly guides show you the entire way and there are so many, many turns and changes to the route to be watching out for.

  Magnifique IV Bruges to Amsterdam
Belgium, Netherlands

Scenery, staff was wonderful.
Need better lighting in bathrooms. Hard to put on makeup with a tiny light behind you in ceiling.

  Magnifique IV Bruges to Amsterdam
Belgium, Netherlands

The Bruges to Amsterdam Barge and Bike tour was simply wonderful! Every detail was attended to. The cabins were beautiful, the food was gourmet, the staff was delightful and attentive. We were surprised by all the extras like walking tours, special drinks and snacks before dinner, and an education on Belgian beers. We loved every minute of it!

  Magnifique IV Bruges to Amsterdam
Belgium, Netherlands

Overall, the cycling days of the trip were "outstanding" and the cycling leaders along with the remaining staff (ALL) were great!! Many details were provided regarding each day's trip and any facts/information related to a specific area during designated stops. Regarding the meals, I really enjoyed the dinner entrees, interesting food combinations! Breakfast variety was great, and each of us made bag lunches with the choices, which made for a simple and convenient selection. I highly recommend the Magnifique IV - MUCH fun!!

Suggestion: It might be beneficial to increase the selection of plant based or vegan meal options to better accommodate these passengers.

We are looking forward to planning and participating in another boat/barge trip in two years!! Thank you for making this trip fun and exciting!

  Magnifique IV Bruges to Amsterdam
Belgium, Netherlands

The food and service on our boat were A1. Our tour guides were super helpful and went above and beyond!

  Magnifique IV Bruges to Amsterdam
Belgium, Netherlands

The bike ride through towns and the countryside was fabulous. Dont need to be in super fit shape but helps to wear padded bike shorts or bring a padded seat cover.

The barge accommodations are luxurious and food was excellant.

  Magnifique IV Bruges to Amsterdam
Belgium, Netherlands

food
guests
biking

Guides could have had more info. Sometimes they knew nothing about the cities we stopped in and just told us to read the brochure.It doesn't take much to give them a one page cheat sheet to tell us a bit about the history of the place and the buildings.
Went on the same trip six Yeats ago and the guide had a wealth of information. The guides were very nice ladies however.

  Magnifique IV Amsterdam to Bruges
Netherlands, Belgium

The crew was amazing. The boat very comfortable. The scenery outstanding. The food excellent. Even the weather behaved. Our Guides Andre and Franklin provided historic information in addition to keeping us all safe. It was great to be on a trip with people of the same interests. One suggestion would be if you are sensitive to insect bites bring repellant!
A great experience overall. So glad we checked it off of our to do list!

  Magnifique IV Bruges to Amsterdam
Belgium, Netherlands

We enjoyed our trip from Bruges to Amsterdam. The Magnifique IV was very comfortable. The food and service was terrific.

Our tour guides (Corrie and Mariah) lead us through the countryside and small towns. The gave us history lessons and local insight on our rides and after dinner walks, making the journey much more enjoyable.

Over the week we rode each date for a total of 278km. There was very little elevation change and we were fortunate to have the wind at our backs for much of the trip. Be sure to pack a raincoat. The weather conditions were variable, affected by the proximity to the ocean.

We can't wait until we do this again.

  Magnifique IV Bruges to Amsterdam
Belgium, Netherlands

Tour leaders were great.
Always very helpful and knowledgeable.
They knew the territory and landscape and brought us to the most beautiful sights.

  Magnifique IV Bruges to Amsterdam
Belgium, Netherlands

The staff aboard the Magnifique IV were fabulous. We had great bike tour guides. The people we met on the ship were from all over the world and we all became friends. I would highly recommend this tour and we will be doing this again

  Magnifique IV Amsterdam to Bruges
Netherlands, Belgium

Although the guided tour had its frustrations and the rainy - windy weather didn’t help, the experience was worth the trip. However, it was frustrating that more attention/instruction was not given to novice bikers. Firstly, they needed to understand the e-bike, specifically to understand the function of gearing down and powering up when needed. Secondly novice bikers didn’t understand NOT to crowd other bikers and to keep a safe distance. Also your marketing should be clear state that they shoukd be experienced bikers. Some areas were highly trafficked - bike auto and train - therefore novice bikers are at great risk. The guides were unfamiliar with the trail and particularly in the first days were getting lost. Your selection for lunch stops were poor. We ate our sandwiches (which got really boring after the second day) outside in the rain. Suggest you add some lunch stops at some local sheltered restaurants with enough time to enjoy and experience the local fare.

  Magnifique IV Amsterdam to Bruges
Netherlands, Belgium

From the moment we boarded the Magnifique IV to the morning we left everything was exceptional…Mariela was our cycling guide for the week and she couldn’t have been more lovely. We had beautiful weather and each day of cycling was interesting and fun! All members of the crew went out of their way to make us comfortable and the food prepared by Jules was delicious! We had a great group of travellers and enjoyed our social time on the barge each evening. We would highly recommend the adventure!
John and Kate

  Magnifique IV Tulip Tour - 5 day
Netherlands

Barge facilities, food and staff were outstanding. Beds were comfortable; rooms were of good size (we were on the upper level); dinners were gourmet and sufficient in size; breakfast was ample.

  Magnifique IV Tulip Tour - 5 day
Netherlands

For me the most memorable part was traveling on the boat through the amazing waterways of the Netherlands and visiting 4 different towns. I did not bicycle but chose instead to walk in each place and get to know them a little. The staff was amazing and very supportive of my decision to stay on board. The Magnifique 4 is a lovely vessel. The rooms were very comfortable, the food excellent and the whole package was relaxing and fun. I encourage others who are not really bike riders to sign up and see first hand how intimately connected people in the Netherlands are to the water. I also really enjoyed the trip to the flower auction especially after reading Flower Confidential by Amy Stewart. So amazing to see the hub of the cut flower industry in action.

  Magnifique IV Tulip Tour - 5 day
Netherlands

Trip to the tulip venue was a nice route getting there.

If not getting a e-bike be prepared for strong head winds You may be called out for slowing the group down.

  Magnifique IV Tulip Tour - 5 day
Netherlands

Keukenhof Gardens. E bike was great for riding with wind.
Be sure to bring rain gear (jacket and pants) and disposable gloves to use as liners if rain is predicted. Wear layers in cooler weather.

  Magnifique IV Tulip Tour - 5 day
Netherlands

The Tulip gardens were beautiful as well as the tulip fields we biked past on way to garden

  Magnifique IV Tulip Tour - 5 day
Netherlands

For me the most memorable part was traveling on the boat through the amazing waterways of the Netherlands and visiting 4 different towns. I did not bicycle but chose instead to walk in each place and get to know them a little. The staff was amazing and very supportive of my decision to stay on board. The Magnifique 4 is a lovely vessel. The rooms were very comfortable, the food excellent and the whole package was relaxing and fun. I encourage others who are not really bike riders to sign up and see first hand how intimately connected people in the Netherlands are to the water. I also really enjoyed the trip to the flower auction especially after reading Flower Confidential by Amy Stewart. So amazing to see the hub of the cut flower industry in action.

  Magnifique IV Amsterdam to Bruges
Netherlands, Belgium

We had a wonderful time on our trip. The Boat ,room, staff, and meals were excellent. All the staff work very hard to make sure all have a great trip.
One thing I would recommend to others is to bring light rain gear and gloves for riding

  Magnifique IV Amsterdam to Bruges
Netherlands, Belgium

The people on board. And the food. Stella was great, too. I liked the open windows in the upstairs rooms. Also, coffee or cappuccino, espresso 24/7.

  Magnifique IV Amsterdam to Bruges
Netherlands, Belgium

The overall organised week-the daily presentation of our next days excursions. On top of biking through beautiful routes , we also benefited from nightly activities and presentations of local cultural products such as chocolaterie,beer and cuisine.
The warm and welcoming reception of the whole crew, especially our two experienced and knowledgeable guides : Peter Van Avermaet & Tom Stout ,their camaraderie and sense of humor made the whole group feel at ease !
The chef was very accommodating as I had requested a gluten and lactose free diet. Many thanks !!!
Tips - In order to fully enjoy this wonderful adventure ,when booking a Bike & Barge ,you should be ready ,comfortable and expecting to be biking !!!!

  Magnifique IV Amsterdam to Bruges
Netherlands, Belgium

The whole trip was amazing!! But the one thing that sticks out is when we we stopped at the Canadian war cemetery…. And after touring around… Peter our guide stood proud in front of us and read the Poem “Flanders Field”. It brought tears to most of eyes.
Tips& suggestions… please make sure you know how to ride a bike! Being a bike tour… this is very important, as our tour guides did have to make the decision to have one couple stay back as they were not confident on the bikes. It is an easy ride but we did ride in towns and over cobble stone road ways. But they had to make that decision for the safety for them and others and I know it was a hard decision, but for that we thank them.

  Magnifique IV Amsterdam to Bruges
Netherlands, Belgium

The whole trip was memorable and the guides made it even more special. They was so funny and very informative. Always wanting to help you if you needed it and always so approachable.

  Magnifique IV Bruges to Amsterdam
Belgium, Netherlands

The ship’s crew on the Magnifique IV was outstanding. Hardworking, pleasant, efficient and the ship was very clean. The food was very good.

The tour guides failed to give clear instructions and some times were rude to the passengers. They did not follow the ride GPS even though they insisted on us downloading it. One time they would not allow us to enter a museum because we came “late” even though the museum was opened for another hour. They were not a highlight of my experience.

  Magnifique IV Amsterdam to Bruges
Netherlands, Belgium

Antwerp, Ghent and Brugge were our favourite towns/cities. The tour leaders were fun and informative and our experience on the boat - food, accommodation and relaxed atmosphere - was wonderful. Would recommend to anyone.

  Magnifique IV Amsterdam to Bruges
Netherlands, Belgium

Crew and meals were awesome. Would be great if they introduced everyone at the first meeting or meal. Also would be great if they had a signup sheet for emails to keep the group connected.

  Magnifique IV Bruges to Amsterdam
Belgium, Netherlands

The boat was fabulous and the crew exceptional. The guides were great. The whole experience exceeded my expectations

  Magnifique IV Amsterdam to Bruges
Netherlands, Belgium

Muito Obrigado pelo passeio!!!
Superou todas as minhas expectativas, os guias ofereceram conhecimento e entretenimento e a equipe de bordo muito entusiasmada, a alimentação sensacional. E o tamanho do barco proporciona interação entre os passageiros.
Agradecemos a toda equipe do návio em especial ao Ronald, Steve e Jolene.
Luciana e Giovanni

Até Breve!!!

  Magnifique IV Bruges to Amsterdam
Belgium, Netherlands

The Magnifique IV is as comfortable and roomy as a canal barge can be. The crew and guides were caring and attentive, performing their roles perfectly. The meals were lovely, excellent, beautifully prepared and presented.
The daily routes were delightful, with a dramatic scenic build as we entered The Netherlands and approached Amsterdam.
Bring a strap-on water bottle cage for easy and frequent hydration during the day.

  Magnifique IV Amsterdam to Bruges
Netherlands, Belgium

The food, crew, and guides were top-notch. It was our first barge trip. It was a very relaxing yet active way to explore historic cities and the roads and waterways connecting them.

  Magnifique IV Amsterdam to Bruges
Netherlands, Belgium

The staff was absolutely tremendous. I have nothing but praise for them. The boat was very well appointed and meticulously maintained. Thank you all so much for fabulous trip and memories that will last a lifetime!

  Magnifique IV Amsterdam to Bruges
Netherlands, Belgium

We loved all of our trip! The barge was lovely, the food first class and the 2 guides were excellent. We enjoyed meeting new people, the relaxed atmosphere and our daily rides.

  Magnifique IV Bruges to Amsterdam
Belgium, Netherlands

The interaction with your wonderful crew and guides. They made everyone and every day special.

  Magnifique IV Tulip Tour - 5 day
Netherlands

  Magnifique IV Tulip Tour - 5 day
Netherlands

Our 5 day trip aboard the Magnifique IV for the Netherlands tulip tour was magnificent! I can't say enough great things about the staff--each and every one was so helpful and accommodating. There was plenty of food at all times and the evening dinner was excellent. The rooms were small but clean and enough room for all of your belongings. The bikes were new and worked well. The only thing I would change about the trip was the weather (!) and perhaps I would have enjoyed eating lunch in the small towns we meandered through (versus packing a bagged lunch each day). Would definitely recommend this trip and will be booking with them again!

  Magnifique IV Tulip Tour - 5 day
Netherlands

Just the whole trip everything was memorable, the barge crew, the ride leader & cycling. The Barge itself, the food and peolple

  Magnifique IV Bruges to Amsterdam
Belgium, Netherlands

This was one of the best vacations I’ve ever had! The Magnifique IV is gorgeous and comfortable, and every single staff member was super helpful and just absolutely lovely! Our cycling guides, Hans and Wilfred, we’re wonderful - fun, knowledgeable, well-organized. Seeing bigger towns and cities, and all the countryside and ‘regular’ towns in between by bicycle is such a good way to explore. I highly recommend this trip!

  Magnifique IV Bruges to Amsterdam
Belgium, Netherlands

  Magnifique IV Amsterdam to Bruges
Netherlands, Belgium

Our staff. Hans and Wilfred were exceptional.

  Magnifique IV Amsterdam to Bruges
Netherlands, Belgium

The dinners were fantastic.

  Magnifique IV Bruges to Amsterdam
Belgium, Netherlands

Loved riding through the farmlands leading to Gent at the beginning of the trip. Beautiful scenery and so peaceful! Our boat tour up the canal was magical.

I would rate this trip excellent and well beyond my expectations. The staff were always cheerful and accommodating. Guides were informative and all of the days were well paced and eventful.