Netherlands

Sail & Bike IJsselmeer and National Park

8 days | Amsterdam, Netherlands | From €1,499,- p.p. | Self-Guided Bike and barge tour

About this IJsselmeer & Weerribben bike and barge tour

Sail across the IJsselmeer aboard a traditional Dutch sailing ship and discover the Netherlands by bike from both sides of this former sea. Today, the IJsselmeer is the largest freshwater lake in the Netherlands and provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable cycling and sailing holiday.

During this 8-day active holiday, you’ll combine charming historic harbour towns such as Hoorn, Enkhuizen and Urk with the peaceful landscapes of Weerribben-Wieden National Park and a cycling tour through the unique nature of the Oostvaardersplassen.

No sailing experience is required. You’ll travel as a guest on board the traditional sailing ship, while the experienced crew takes care of the sailing. If you’d like to lend a hand with the sails, you’re very welcome to join in.

During the cycling stages, you’ll explore the Dutch countryside independently. You’ll receive a detailed cycling map, GPS routes and a daily route briefing from the crew, so you can set off with confidence each day. Choose between a shorter or longer cycling route, allowing you to tailor each day to your own pace, fitness level and mood.

This unique bike and boat holiday in the Netherlands combines active days in the saddle with relaxing sailing, historic towns, picturesque landscapes and the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Highlights along the route

• Cycle through the unique Weerribben-Wieden National Park
• Discover picturesque Giethoorn, known as the Venice of the North
• Enjoy scenic cycling routes along the IJsselmeer
• Visit the historic former Zuiderzee town of Enkhuizen
• Explore the characteristic fishing village of Urk
• Cycle through the typically Dutch towns of Edam and Volendam
• Discover the historic old town and harbour of Hoorn
• Admire Schokland, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Noordoostpolder
• Experience the remarkable landscapes and wildlife of the Oostvaardersplassen
• Combine cycling, cruising and sailing on one varied holiday
• Wake up to a new destination every day while enjoying comfortable accommodation on board

Day to day itinerary

Routemap 8-days bike and barge tour IJsselmeer + National Park

Your ship as a floating hotel during your bike and sail tour

During this varied cycling and sailing holiday, you’ll combine relaxing time on the water with beautiful cycling routes. While you explore the surroundings by bike, the ship sails ahead to your next destination. On board, you’ll enjoy comfortable accommodation, with breakfast and dinner included. Every morning, a packed lunch will also be ready for you to take along on your cycling tour.

You decide how active you want each day to be: choose a longer or shorter cycling route to suit your pace and fitness level. Prefer to take it easy for a day? You can simply stay on board and enjoy the cruise to the next destination.

You can rent a bicycle on board, but of course you’re also welcome to bring your own bike.

Cycling individually

Each day, the crew will discuss the following day’s cycling routes with you and provide useful tips and information about the route. You’ll cycle independently and at your own pace, using a detailed cycling map, GPS directions via the free Ride with GPS app and printed route descriptions, which are available on board. In case of an emergency or if you encounter any problems along the way, you can contact the crew by phone.

If you enjoy being involved, you can even lend a hand while sailing, following the instructions of the experienced crew. But there’s absolutely no obligation: sitting back, enjoying the fresh air, the water and the views is just as much a part of the experience.

Prefer to cycle without staying on board?

This trip is also available as a traditional cycling holiday, without accommodation on a sailing ship. This gives you the freedom to explore the beautiful cycling routes around the IJsselmeer and its surrounding landscapes, while staying in comfortable hotels and other accommodation on land.

Whichever option you choose, you’ll discover the highlights of the IJsselmeer region, from historic former Zuiderzee towns to spectacular nature reserves.

Highlights during this bike and boat tour IJsselmeer

Prices & departure dates

2027

High season

Departure dates: 10, 17, 24 & 31 juli; 7, 14, 21 & 28 augustus; 4, 11 & 18 september 2027.

Low season

Departure date: 18 september 2027.

Included

• 8 days / 7 nights 7 breakfasts
• Packed lunches
• 7 three-course dinners
• Coffee and tea on board
• Welcome drink
• Bed linen and towels
• One cabin cleaning
• Daily briefings by the crew
• Cycling map and route descriptions (1 set per cabin)
• GPS routes
• Use of a waterproof cycling bag
• Biodegradable water bottle
• Wi-Fi
• The CO₂ emissions of this trip are offset through Trees for All and plastic recycler Orca

Not included

• Drinks
• Bicycle or e-bike rental
• Bicycle helmet rental
• Personal insurance
• Tips (at your own discretion)
• Entrance fees and excursions
• Travel to and from the departure port
• Parking fees

Good to know

A Sail & Bike holiday combines active cycling with relaxing time on the water and the freedom of sailing. As this cycling and sailing holiday depends on the wind and weather, the programme may occasionally differ from the original itinerary.

The trip starts and ends at the designated location. Each day, the sailing route is adapted to the current wind and weather conditions. The skipper decides which route is the best and safest option at that moment and discusses the possibilities with the guests on board.

As a result, departure and sailing times may change and the order of the itinerary may be adjusted. The amount of time spent on the water can also vary from day to day. The crew will, of course, do everything possible to follow the planned programme as closely as conditions allow.

Think of this flexibility as part of the adventure. Let the wind guide you and enjoy a varied week filled with cycling, sailing, nature and culture.

When conditions are suitable, the ship will sail under full sail on various stretches of the route. Would you like to get involved? You are very welcome to lend a hand to the crew when sailing or even take the helm yourself for a while. No previous sailing experience is required. The experienced crew will provide clear instructions and guidance.

In short, enjoy the freedom of cycling, the tranquillity of being on the water and all the unexpected experiences along the way. It is this unique combination of cycling, cruising and sailing that makes a Sail & Bike holiday on the IJsselmeer such a memorable way to discover the Netherlands.

Optional extras

E-bike rental is available on request and is subject to limited availability. Early reservation is recommended. Bicycle helmets and reduced liability cover can only be booked in advance. Parking is limited and must be reserved in advance at the time of booking.

Practical information

• Trip type: Sail & Bike – cycling and sailing holiday
• Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
• Departure day: Saturday
• Cycling days: 5 active cycling days, plus a relaxing day to enjoy sailing and time on board
• Cycling distances: approximately 20–52 km per day, with shorter and longer route options available on several days
• Difficulty level: Level 1 – easy and very flat terrain
• Guidance: You cycle independently and at your own pace. The crew discusses the route with you each day and provides useful tips and information.
• Starting point: Amsterdam
• End point: Amsterdam
• Sailing area: IJsselmeer, Weerribben-Wieden, Flevoland and the Oostvaardersplassen
• Ship: A comfortable sailing ship accommodating approximately 32 passengers

Parking in Amsterdam – Valet Parking

Travelling to Amsterdam by car? Take advantage of the convenient valet parking service provided by CentralParking, recommended by Travel2Move. Your car will be collected, securely parked and returned to you at the end of your trip. This allows you to board the ship without the hassle of finding a parking space, carrying heavy luggage or using public transport.

Benefits

• No waiting or unnecessary loss of time
• No need to carry heavy luggage
• Board the ship directly, without a taxi or public transport
• Secure and monitored parking facility
• Professional drivers with a certificate of good conduct
• Often more affordable than public car parks in Amsterdam

Amsterdam Valet Parking Rates

Advance reservation is required. Last-minute booking on the day of departure is only possible for trips that start and end in Amsterdam.

Please note: Valet Parking is a service provided by CentralParking, an external company recommended by Travel2Move. Travel2Move is not responsible for the provision or execution of this service.

Frequently Asked Questions about the IJsselmeer & Weerribben bike and barge tour

Other bike and barge tours in the Netherlands