• Zuiderzeemuseum - This exhibition introduces visitors to both past and present inhabitants of the Zuiderzee region, sharing insights into their daily lives, occupations, attire, homes, and leisure activities. Discover their traditions and celebrations from both historical and modern perspectives, as well as their ongoing struggle against the water and the transformative construction of the enclosing dyke.

At the Zuiderzee Museum, explore the largest collection of ships in the Netherlands. The iron ships are docked in the outdoor museum’s harbor, while the most significant wooden ships are housed in the Schepenhal. Through audiovisual presentations, visitors are transported back 100 years to the Zuiderzee, once a wild open sea teeming with fish, saltwater, and turbulent waves, where around 1900, two thousand fishing boats sailed daily. Experience the resilience of a fishing boat amidst thunder and lightning, and witness how an ice floe with scratching irons is maneuvered across the frozen Zuiderzee to and from Urk.

• Afsluitdijk - History of the Afsluitdijk
  Stretching 32 km, the Afsluitdijk’s history dates back to the 17th century when initial ideas to close off the Zuiderzee emerged, gaining serious consideration by the late 19th century. In 1891, young engineer Cornelis Lely developed the first plans for the Afsluitdijk. As Minister of Water Management in 1913, he ensured the project was included in the cabinet’s agenda.

However, the plans were postponed. During World War I, food shortages in the Netherlands heightened the need for self-sufficiency, prioritizing the creation of agricultural land. Unfortunately, in 1916, a devastating flood, later known as the Flood Disaster of 1916, struck the Zuiderzee area, resulting in fatalities, injuries, thousands of displaced individuals, and significant economic damage.

• Afsluitdijk - The adoption of Lely’s Zuiderzee Act in 1918 led to the Zuiderzee Works, which dramatically altered the Netherlands’ landscape. The Afsluitdijk became an unparalleled hydraulic engineering project, showcasing the Netherlands’ capabilities to the world.

The Zuiderzee Works Service was established, and by 1920, work commenced to seal off the Zuiderzee. On 28 May 1932, the final gap, the Vlieter, was closed, marking the transformation of the Zuiderzee into the IJsselmeer. A year later, traffic resumed over the dike, now part of the A7 motorway.

• Giethoorn - Explore the charming and picturesque locations in the Netherlands: Giethoorn, the Dutch Venice village.
  Relish the tranquility and natural beauty of this idyllic village. Enjoy a guided boat tour lasting 1 hour beneath the linden trees, admire the characteristic wooden bridges, and the historic farmhouses.

Visitors can also opt to navigate a small boat independently. If choosing to steer the boat personally, please inform the driver to make the necessary arrangements. After the canal cruise, enjoy a delightful lunch at one of the town’s lovely restaurants or take a leisurely stroll through the enchanting Giethoorn village.

• Giethoorn - Opportunity to wander through the historic town and discover this remarkable Dutch Venice village.
• Giethoorn - Opportunity to enjoy a pleasant lunch in Giethoorn.

• Wifi and Bottled water
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Canal cruise underneath the linden trees, admire the typical wooden bridges and the old farmhouses.
• Professional driver/host
• All fees and/or taxes
• Transport by a private air-conditioned Mercedes sedan/minivan

• Tip (optional)
• Professional guide

Discover the fascinating history of the Dutch enclosing dyke and explore the Zuiderzee Museum, home to the Netherlands’ largest collection of ships. These vessels, which once navigated the former Zuiderzee, are now on display at the Museum. The iron ships are docked in the Outdoor Museum’s harbor, while the most significant wooden ships are housed in the Ships’ Hall.

Afterwards, travel over the enclosing dyke to reach Giethoorn. Giethoorn is renowned as the most romantic town in the Netherlands. Situated in Overijssel, in the eastern part of the country, it is enveloped by nature and water. In fact, Giethoorn is so water-rich that cars are absent, and many homes are accessible only by boat, which is the primary mode of transport for its residents.

Enjoy a guided canal cruise beneath the linden trees, marvel at the charming wooden bridges, and admire the historic farmhouses. There is an opportunity to pilot a boat yourself, and you can also enjoy a delightful lunch.

• We provide 24/7 services and to confirm bookings or for questions please contact us during our opening times from Monday - Friday from 08:30 AM till 06:00 PM CET. Saturday and Sunday our office is closed.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.