Belgium Cruises

Experience the Charms of Belgium on a Cruise

Welcome to Belgium, a delightful country known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and mouth-watering cuisine. With picturesque towns, beautiful canals, and vibrant culture, Belgium offers an enchanting experience for cruise passengers. Fun fact: Belgium is famous for its chocolate and beer, and it’s home to over 100 breweries! Cruising to Belgium allows you to explore charming cities like Bruges and Antwerp, indulge in world-class chocolate, and soak in the unique blend of cultures all in one trip. As you sail through the scenic canals and waterways, you'll discover the hidden gems that this beautiful country has to offer!

Top Major Cruise Lines to Belgium

• Cunard: Known for luxurious sea experiences, Cunard has a total fleet of 4 ships, with three—Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria—offering itineraries that include Belgium. The emphasis on traditional elegance, fine dining, and world-class entertainment sets Cunard apart. Departures from international ports like Southampton and New York ensure a convenient route for cruisers seeking an exquisite journey to Belgium’s shores.
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of 24 vessels, MSC Cruises features four ships—MSC Virtuosa, MSC Magnifica, MSC Lirica, and MSC Opera—cruising to Belgium. Notable for its family-friendly atmosphere and Italian hospitality, MSC ships provide a variety of entertainment options, restaurants, and on-board activities suitable for all ages. Most departures occur from international ports like Southampton and Amsterdam, making it convenient for travelers to embark on their Belgian adventure.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian operates a fleet of 21 ships, of which six—including Norwegian Jewel and Norwegian Breakaway—offer itineraries to Belgium. Known for its Freestyle Cruising concept, Norwegian allows passengers flexibility in dining and activities, enhancing their cruise experience. Departures typically happen from major ports like Amsterdam and Southampton, ensuring easy access to the beautiful and historic sights of Belgium.
• P&O Cruises: This popular cruise line has a fleet of 7 ships, with five—Britannia, Azura, Ventura, Oceana, and Iona—offering itineraries to Belgium. P&O is celebrated for its exceptional service and opportunities to experience British traditions at sea. Most of their cruises depart from international ports such as Southampton, providing a convenient gateway for cruisers eager to explore the delights of Belgium.
• Ambassador Cruise Line: With a smaller fleet of 2 ships, Ambassador Cruise Line offers itineraries to Belgium aboard both ships. Known for its eco-friendly approach and affordable travel options, Ambassador delivers unique cruising experiences tailored for value-seeking travelers. You can expect port departures from major cities, creating easy access to Belgian shores for an enjoyable journey.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruising Opportunities

• Oceania Cruises: Oceania operates a fleet of 8 ships, with four—Marina, Insignia, Riviera, and Sirena—offering cruises to Belgium. Recognized for its exquisite dining and spacious suites, Oceania provides a luxurious onboard experience, ensuring guests receive impeccable service. Departures typically occur from international ports like Southampton and Reykjavik, allowing easy access to Belgium during your cruise.
• Viking River Cruises: With 66 ships in its fleet, Viking River Cruises boasts five vessels that offer itineraries to Belgium, including Viking Vali and Viking Ve. Known for its emphasis on cultural immersion, Viking provides enriching experiences highlighting local customs and traditions. Departures generally occur from popular international ports such as Amsterdam and Antwerp, ensuring seamless connections for cruise passengers to Belgium.
• Silversea: Silversea operates a fleet of 12 luxurious ships, with two—Silver Spirit and Silver Shadow—offering itineraries that include Belgium. Famed for its intimate atmosphere and bespoke service, Silversea creates unforgettable experiences for discerning travelers. Departures typically occur from international ports such as Southampton and Belfast, allowing easy connections to explore the beauty of Belgium.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: A separate branch of its river cruising counterpart, Viking Ocean Cruises maintains a fleet of 11 ships, with four vessels—Viking Jupiter, Viking Neptune, Viking Sea, and Viking Sky—offering itineraries to Belgium. Similar to Viking River, they focus on immersive experiences and elegant service. Departures usually occur from ports like Bergen or Barcelona, providing a smooth path toward Belgian delights.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of four ships, Azamara features two—Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey—that cruise to Belgium. This line is known for offering immersive voyages that engage passengers with local experiences and longer port stays, enabling cruisers to explore in-depth. Most departures take place from international ports like Barcelona and Bordeaux, facilitating easy travel to Belgium.

Top Harbors to Explore in Belgium

• Zeebrugge (Bruges): As one of Belgium’s most popular ports, Zeebrugge serves as a gateway to the stunning medieval city of Bruges. Cruise passengers can take a short journey to Bruges, where they can admire the cobblestone streets, canals, and historic architecture. Explore the famous Belfry of Bruges, visit the picturesque Markt square, and indulge in rich Belgian chocolate from local shops. If time permits, consider enjoying a canal tour for a unique perspective of this enchanting city!
• Antwerp: This vibrant city is known for its diamond district and stunning Renaissance architecture. While in port, visit the Cathedral of Our Lady, which houses works by Rubens. The bustling Grote Markt is perfect for a leisurely stroll, where you'll find shops, cafes, and historical buildings. Don't miss the chance to try Antwerp's famous dish, "stoofvlees," a hearty beef stew paired with Belgian fries!
• Nijmegen: This Dutch city just over the border from Belgium offers a mix of history and culture. Famous for its Roman history, visitors can explore fascinating archaeological sites and historical landmarks. Don’t miss the beautiful Waalkade with its waterfront views and lively terraces, perfect for enjoying a drink after sightseeing.
• Brussels: Belgium’s capital is a bustling hub of culture and politics. While docked, explore landmarks like the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the iconic Atomium. Brussels is also known for its exquisite waffles and Flemish-style cuisine, as well as its renowned chocolate shops, so be sure to indulge in a sweet treat or two while you're there!
• Namur: This picturesque city, located at the confluence of the Sambre and Meuse rivers, is a charming place to visit. While in port, explore the stunning Namur Citadel, which offers breathtaking views of the city and river. The lovely streets are perfect for leisurely strolls, quaint shops, and delightful local cafes. Don't forget to sample some local specialties during your visit!

Additional Harbours Typically Visited by Cruises Going to Belgium

• San Juan, Puerto Rico: In addition to Belgium, your cruise may lead you to San Juan, where the charm of Old San Juan awaits. Explore historic forts like El Morro and San Cristóbal, stroll through colourful streets, and relish delicious local cuisine like mofongo. Take advantage of the beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife!

Best Times to Cruise to Belgium

The cruising season for Belgium generally occurs between April and October, with temperatures usually ranging from 10°C to 22°C. This period showcases lovely spring and summer weather, ensuring perfect conditions for exploring charming cities and enjoying outdoor events. Off-peak months in November to March present colder weather (averaging around 0°C to 10°C), but also a chance to experience Christmas markets and fewer crowds at popular attractions.

Costs of Cruising to Belgium

A typical one-week cruise to Belgium generally costs around $1200, while a two-week journey may start at approximately $2200. For luxurious experiences, expect prices to start around $4000 for a week-long cruise. Average dining costs in Belgium are moderately priced, at about $15 to $30 for a meal, while drinks can range from $3 to $8, allowing you to enjoy local cuisine and fine Belgian beers without breaking the bank.

Alternative Regions Worth Considering for Your Next Cruise

If Belgium has piqued your interest, consider these alternative regions for your upcoming cruise:

• Netherlands: Known for its stunning tulip fields, historic cities, and picturesque canals, the Netherlands offers a wealth of cultural experiences and breathtaking scenery.
• France: A country renowned for its culinary delights, history, and beautiful landscapes, France offers countless opportunities to explore charming villages, delightful cuisine, and captivating cultural experiences.
• Germany: With its breathtaking scenery, rich history, and vibrant cities, Germany is perfect for exploration, whether you're diving into local beer culture or wandering through historic towns.
• UK: From the historic landmarks of London to the serene countryside, the UK provides a charming mix of modernity and tradition, ensuring countless memorable experiences aboard your cruise.
• Scandinavia: This stunning region offers breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant cities, and rich cultural history, making it an ideal alternative for adventurous travelers.

Set sail for an unforgettable adventure and immerse yourself in the beauty of Belgium. Book your cruise with Cruise1st today and create lasting memories while exploring this enchanting destination!