Aboard the MS Geoffrey Chaucer with Riviera Cruises
I recently returned from a five star journey through the heart of the Netherlands and it was truly a bucket list experience. The MS Geoffrey Chaucer is a beautiful boutique hotel on the water. With its marble lobby and incredible service, it was the perfect sanctuary for exploring. Staying overnight in Amsterdam was a huge advantage as it allowed us to see the canals at night and enjoy the city at a much more relaxed pace.
THE MS GEOFFREY CHAUCER EXPERIENCE
The ship itself is a masterpiece of classic design. Named after the father of English literature, the MS Geoffrey Chaucer feels more like a floating manor than a standard cruise ship. The interiors feature gleaming marble floors, rich hardwoods, and polished brass accents that evoke a golden age of travel.
With only 84 cabins and suites, the atmosphere is intimate and quiet. My Diamond suite featured a French balcony which allowed us to watch the Dutch countryside drift by from the comfort of our room. The dining was a particular highlight, with multi course dinners focusing on regional specialties and a more casual bistro at the back of the ship for a quieter meal. The crew to guest ratio is very high, meaning the service was always attentive and personal.
MAJOR TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
THE KINDERDIJK UNESCO WINDMILLS
This is the Holland you see on postcards. Located in a polder in South Holland, Kinderdijk is a marvel of 18th century engineering. Seeing 19 historic windmills lined up along the canal was a breathtaking sight. We were able to go inside a working mill to see the massive wooden gears in action and learn about how these structures kept the Netherlands above water for centuries.
Walking along the level paths between the mills is a serene experience that feels like stepping back 300 years in time.
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THE KEUKENHOF GARDENS
Often called the Garden of Europe, this floral spectacle is only open for 8 weeks a year. Located near Lisse, the park features over 7 million hand planted flowers across 79 acres. The vibrant colors and the sheer variety of tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils are unlike anything else in the world. It is a true sensory overload of fragrance and color.
MY ESSENTIAL TRAVEL TIP
If you are planning this trip do not just buy a standard entry ticket for the gardens. You must book the extra ticket for the Whisper Boat in advance. These electric boats take you out beyond the manicured park gardens and into the actual Dutch bulb fields where the endless rows of tulips stretch to the horizon. If you wait until the day you arrive you will likely be disappointed as these boat trips sell out very fast.
AMSTERDAM AND CULTURE
The cruise began and ended in Amsterdam, giving us plenty of time to explore. We spent hours wandering the beautiful Jordaan district, known for its narrow streets, independent boutiques, and historic gabled houses. A visit to the Anne Frank House was a deeply moving experience that provided a somber look into the citys history. Please note that this is an online only booking system and tickets usually sell out weeks in advance.
Between the historic coffee shops, the world class museums, and the beautiful architecture, Amsterdam is a city that stays with you. This was an amazing trip and I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a mix of luxury, history, and natural beauty.
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