ghent shore excursions

• Shore Excursions
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• Port of Zeebrugge

Best of Belgium: Bruges and Ghent Shore Excursion from Zeebrugge

• Architecture
• Entertainment
• Bestsellers
• Sightseeing

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About this tour

• Make the most of your time visiting up to two beautiful Belgian cities - Bruges and Ghent
• Guaranteed punctual pick-up and return on your cruise
• Recuperate in our air-conditioned coach
• Satisfy your curiosity with an experienced guide
• Admire the beauty of two historic churches: the Basilica of the Holy Blood in Bruges and St. Bavo's Cathedral in Ghent
• Taste the famous Belgian snacks

Discover the best of Belgium with this fascinating shore excursion for cruise ship passengers docking in Zeebrugge. Visit Bruges, often hailed as the Venice of the North. Savor the exquisite Belgian chocolate, marvel at its medieval architecture, and picturesque canals. If your ship docks longer, opt for a trip to Ghent ─ another Belgian gem waiting to be explored.  

This tour is aligned with your ship's schedule for a seamless experience. Upon disembarkation, our knowledgeable guide and comfortable transport await you.  After a short drive through the Belgian countryside, you will arrive in Bruges. Here, you start your exploration with a leisurely 20-minute stroll into the city with our local tour guide.  

Listen to fascinating tales of Belgian history. Immerse yourself in the city's charming atmosphere. Discover its hidden gems and treasures led by your expert tour guide. Take advantage of our insider knowledge: as local experts we will help you make the most of your short time ashore! 

Upon reaching the iconic Market Square, marvel at the historic guildhalls and the iconic Belfry, a symbol of Bruges' rich heritage.   Taste famous Belgian foods at the bustling market. From mouthwatering waffles, through famous Belgian fries - accompanied by local beer or hot chocolate - you cannot go wrong here!  

Afterwards, admire the unique exterior of Basilica of the Holy Blood - a stunning example of a mix of Gothic and Romanesque architecture. The sacred sanctuary of this important religious site holds a revered relic said to contain a drop of Christ's blood.  Next, those who opted to combine the trip with the stunning city of Ghent will head off to their next destination. Passengers staying in Bruges will have plenty of time for self-exploration and shopping. Glide along the city's picturesque canals on a leisurely boat ride. Indulge in delicious chocolate tastings at the Chocolate Museum. Or simply stroll through the picturesque boutiques scattered throughout the city. Bruges offers a wealth of experiences to suit all tastes!   The journey to Ghent takes approx. 45 minutes and offers panoramic views of famous Belgian picturesque windmills. Along the way, admire Gravensteen Castle, an iconic symbol of Ghent's medieval splendor. 

In Ghent, see the Cathedral of Saint Bavo, a Gothic masterpiece, that holds the renowned Ghent Altarpiece. Then, take a serene stroll on the shores of Graslei and Korenlei. Marvel at the facades of historic buildings, which once served as a bustling trading hub.  Follow our guide's insider recommendations and indulge in the exquisite flavors of authentic Belgian cuisine. It's the perfect way to culminate your visit with a delightful culinary experience! 

Whether you choose to immerse yourself in Ghent's history or savor the timeless allure of Bruges, our tour guarantees unforgettable moments.  At the conclusion of our tour, our coach will ensure your timely return to the port. Sit back, relax, and revel in the finest shore excursion the port of Zeebrugge has to offer.   If you've chosen to enjoy some free time in enchanting Bruges, we'll conveniently pick you up on our way back. Count on us to tailor your return to perfectly align with your ship's timetable. Come along for an unforgettable tour highlighting the absolute best of Belgium!   

What’s Included?

• Modern, air-conditioned bus
• Professional local English speaking tour guide
• Food and drinks

Meeting and Pickup

We meet all passengers outside of the Cruise Terminal Zeebrugge. Please look for our hosts holding " VEXPERIO " signs.

1. Cruise Terminal Zeebrugge

Let us invite you on a tour that will make your day in Belgium an unforgettable memory. You'll visit Bruges and Ghent, two Belgian cities whose beauty delights every visitor. And we'll make sure you don't miss a single essential element to enjoy the full experience.

When you step ashore in Zeebrugge, you will be greeted by our English-speaking guide, who will lead you to an air-conditioned coach. A carefully planned itinerary, tailored to your cruise schedule, will allow you to make the most of your precious time. No stress about transport (port pickup and drop-off), a punctual return and an experienced guide who will be on board at all times - guarantee a pool of wonderful memories.

2. Market Square

The best way to explore the city of Bruges is to start with the vibrant Market Square, surrounded by historic guildhalls and the iconic Belfry. The ornate facades, the soaring bell tower - all remind you of Bruges' rich past. Let yourself be absorbed by the beauty of the place, and our guide will make sure you don't miss any attractions. This is also the perfect place to sample famous Belgian delicacies. How about a traditional Belgian hot chocolate with waffles? Or Belgian fries with a sip of craft beer? Decide for yourself while enjoying the charms of the market.

3. Basilica of the Holy Blood

Then, after a short walk, we will head to the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a sanctuary of religious and architectural significance. This example of Gothic and Romanesque styles houses a revered relic believed to contain a drop of Christ's blood - hence the basilica's name. The silence and tranquility of the interior will allow you not only to admire the beautiful ornaments, but also to relax and reflect for a while.

4. Gravensteen

Afterwards, our luxury coach will take you on a tour of Ghent. Even this comfortable ride will be an opportunity to admire the beauty of Belgium. For example, the impressive Gravensteen Castle, which will not be easy to miss. The medieval fortress with its massive turrets and imposing walls is a testament to Ghent's rich history. Our guide will be happy to tell you about its rich past - a symbol of power and authority in medieval Flanders. In addition, the picturesque landscape may surprise you with its famous windmills. Some of them are still in operation and please the eyes of observant tourists.

5. St. Bavo's Cathedral (Sint-Baafskathedraal)

You've aleady had the chance to experience the beauty of the Basilica of the Holy Blood in Bruges. Now let yourself be invited to the Cathedral of Saint Bavo, a place of not only religious significance, but also proof of Ghent's artistic talent. The beautiful Gothic architecture - tall spires and ornate stained-glass windows, are sure to stay in your memory for a long time. The interior, as beautiful as the exterior, houses the Ghent Altarpiece, a masterpiece of Flemish craftsmanship.

6. Graslei and Korenlei

Then, taking a bit of a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, we will take a slow stroll along the shores of Graslei and Korenlei. This will be an opportunity to admire the perfectly preserved facades of the historic buildings of the former trading post along the waterfront - evidence of the medieval past. As you stroll along the cobblestone streets of the canal promenade, let yourself be absorbed in the peaceful atmosphere, a past point connecting Ghent to distant corners of Europe.

Culture is learned through cuisine, and Belgian cuisine has many delicacies to offer. Our experienced guides will point out tried-and-true restaurants where you can try the authentic taste and traditions of Belgian cuisine. From traditional moules-frites to Belgian waffles, how about innovative interpretations of classic dishes?  Relax and recuperate in charming surroundings while enjoying the delights of Belgian cuisine.

7. Cruise Terminal Zeebrugge

At the end, our coach will take you back to the port for a stress-free boarding. No need to nervously glance at your watch - the tour is tailored to the ship's schedule, so there's no stressful return or missed attractions. We'll make sure you feel the tranquillity of the tour, and allow you to enjoy the wealth of Belgian history from our passionate guide. If you're looking for a guarantee of time well spent, an experience of the beauty of Belgian culture and an appreciation of comfort, you couldn't have come to a better place.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations less than 24 hours ahead (in the local timezone) or no-shows result in no refund.

The specifics of the tour require us to cancel the client's booking (full refund) in the following cases:

• Bad weather
• Not enough travellers

Weather Forecast

Today in Bruges

Monday , 8 February

Tue , 9 Feb

Wed , 10 Feb

Thu , 11 Feb

Fri , 12 Feb

Sat , 13 Feb

Sun , 14 Feb

Important Information

What to bring

• Comfortable shoes
• Weather-appropriate clothing

Know before you go

The tour involves walking on uneven surfaces and is not wheelchair accessible or suitable for people with mobility issues. 

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Shore Excursions in Ghent

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THE BEST Ghent Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in ghent.

• Boat Rentals
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• Graslei and Korenlei
• Gravensteen
• St. Bavo's Cathedral (Sint-Baafskathedraal)
• Het Belfort van Gent
• Ghent Town Hall (Stadhuis)
• Het Groot Vleeshuis
• Saint Nicholas Church
• St Michael s Church
• De Bootjes Van Gent - Rederij Dewaele
• YS Belgium Limousine
• Buendia Tours
• Masons' Guild Hall
• Gent-Watertoerist BVBA
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I Booked an Independent Shore Excursion Through Viator in Nassau. Here’s What I Learned.

When it comes to taking shore excursions in ports of call, I typically either prefer to book through the cruise line or simply do my own, independent touring. I have rarely booked an independent shore excursion, having only done so twice before: once in Belfast, Northern Ireland and again in Reykjavik, Iceland.

But I was confronted with a list of shore excursions on a recent cruise to Nassau, Bahamas that I wasn’t really excited about. Nothing interested me, and the ones that did were going to cost more money than I was prepared to pay. And I've had some bizarre shore excursion experiences in the past that make me particularly choosy.

I also didn’t want to just get off the ship and explore independently. That’s when I started browsing the independent tour listings on Viator, Cruise Critic’s sister-site that is also part of the Tripadvisor umbrella.

It didn’t take long for me to find a tour that interested me. A few minutes later, and I was booked. Less than two weeks after that, I was on the ground in Nassau. Here’s what I learned from booking my first independent shore excursion in Nassau.

On This Page

• When Booking Your Independent Shore Excursion, Pad Departure and Return Times
• Independent Shore Excursions Can Save Money, But Come with Pratfalls
• My Independent Shore Excursion Showed Me More of Nassau
• Independent Shore Excursions Draw a Wider Variety of Tourists
• Independent Shore Excursions (Can) Support Smaller Businesses
• Would I Book an Independent Shore Excursion Again? What I Learned.

1. When Booking Your Independent Shore Excursion, Pad Departure and Return Times

My sailing to Nassau aboard MSC Cruises’ MSC Magnifica was scheduled to arrive into Nassau at 11 a.m. and depart port at 7 p.m., with an all-aboard time of 6:30 p.m. But that doesn’t mean you can book an independent shore excursion leaving ten minutes after docking.

To play it safe, I chose an excursion departing at 1 p.m., and returning to the dock gates outside the cruise pier at 4:00 p.m. That would give me time to have lunch onboard and to account for any delays upon our arrival. Remember: when you arrive, the ship must tie up, have gangways put in place, and be cleared by the local authorities. Most of the time this happens without a hitch, but sometimes arrival can be delayed by a variety of factors.

I also knew I’d need to walk from my ship across Nassau’s sprawling pier and terminal infrastructure to an area outside the port. I budgeted 15 minutes for that so I wouldn’t be rushed.

Departing the ship at 12:30 p.m. for a 1 p.m. excursion turned out to be a good thing: I took a wrong turn and overshot the meeting point by one block. But because I’d given myself extra time, I arrived on schedule.

The same rules apply for returning to the ship: if it’s all-aboard at 6:30 p.m., don’t plan an excursion that gets back at 6 p.m. Give yourself at least an hour’s worth of cushion to return to the ship because, unlike a ship-sponsored shore excursion, the ship doesn’t know you’re on an independent tour – and doesn’t care. It will leave without you.

2. Independent Shore Excursions Can Save Money, But Come with Pratfalls

My three hour “Feel the Culture” tour operated by Chippies Bahamas ran me a very reasonable $89 Canadian (about $65 USD). That’s miles less expensive than what most shore excursions in Nassau were going for.

But my decision to book an independent shore excursion in Nassau was motivated by other considerations, too: I’ve done most of the cruise line excursions that appealed to me, and was looking for something more. The fact I was able to save some money at the same time was just a bonus.

The biggest pratfall to booking an independent shore excursion – aside from potentially being left shoreside should delays en-route occur – is that it is independent of the cruise. If your ship has to divert for any reason, change itinerary or port times, you may not be entitled to a refund of your pre-booked (and pre-paid) independent shore excursion.

My own tour, booked through Viator, had a 24-hour cancellation policy. That’s early enough for me to decide I just don’t want to do it, but probably not soon enough to matter in the event the ship developed engine issues or was beset by weather.

And don’t expect the cruise line to help or care about your private shore excursion, in the instance of changed itineraries or port times. They didn’t make this booking – you did. You’re on your own.

3. My Independent Shore Excursion Showed Me More of Nassau

My “Feel the Culture” tour showcased more of Nassau than I’ve seen on previous shore excursions, from the wealthy enclave of Atlantis Resort to small backroads where locals sell fresh fruit juices spiked liberally with rum.

Most cruise line shore excursions focus on one place, typically Atlantis Resort, the Blue Lagoon, or a sandy beach. This tour ping-ponged around to some of the most interesting attractions on the island, from a speedy rum cake tasting to a walk through the historic Old Fort of Nassau.

There was also time to spend at Junkanoo Beach with a beer and some sun. We never lingered for long in any one place, but doing so allowed me to see more of Nassau than I had previously.

All of this was done with our two personable guides who live locally and have deep roots in Nassau. That’s a good thing: you’re getting the real deal from the folks who live there.

4. Independent Shore Excursions Draw a Wider Variety of Tourists

On a cruise line sponsored shore excursion, you’re typically paired with other cruise passengers – typically from the same ship.

My “Feel the Culture” tour included myself, sailing aboard MSC Magnifica . A woman travelling solo had come from the nearby Adventure of the Seas , while yet another couple hailed from Carnival Conquest .

During our Atlantis Resort stop, we picked up an American couple who were staying at the Resort. The cruise guests asked them about the resort, and they in turn about the cruise experience.

The result was a better vibe than most cruise line shore excursions: these people meaningfully chose this tour, and everyone was there to have fun.

5. Independent Shore Excursions (Can) Support Smaller Businesses

Our tour operator, Chippies Bahamas, was well-known in Nassau but had not yet been accepted into the cruise line shore excursion departments. However, the tour came with a five-bubble rating on Tripadvisor , and past tourists raved about the quality of the tours and the guides.

Independent tours can be good for supporting smaller businesses. By the time a shore excursion gets to be featured aboard a cruise ship, it tends to be operated by a large company or a group of larger companies.

Booking an independent shore excursion helps small local businesses and entrepreneurial residents, while providing a level of authenticity that may be missing from some big-ship excursion offerings.

6. Would I Book an Independent Shore Excursion Again? What I Learned.

My experience was a positive one: I loved my tour, the price was right, and I felt I got more out of Nassau than I would have if I’d done a cruise line shore excursion or had just elected to stay on the ship.

While I won’t stop booking cruise line shore excursions (some ports just frankly call for a ship-sponsored tour due to time constraints or tendering procedures ), I will certainly be looking to see what new adventures can be had in port by booking an independent shore excursion – as long as it gets back to the ship in time!

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

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Shore Excursion Details

Ghent delights: canal charms & wonders, brussels / bruges (zeebrugge), belgium.

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• 5 hrs Estimate Duration

A scenic ride through the charming Flemish countryside takes you to Ghent, a delightful town that is proud of its medieval heritage.

Your walking tour starts at the center of the medieval city of Ghent, at St. Michaels Bridge, with its view of Ghent’s three glorious medieval steeples. Your guide will lead you to the pontoon where you’ll board a canal boat for a fun and thorough exploration of the city. As you cruise through the historic city, see highlights such as the impressive castle of the counts, the Fish Market, 13th century monasteries and the ancient port of Ghent along with its mercantile houses.

Once your canal cruise ends, you’ll have free time to independently explore this gracious city. You may choose to enjoy a locally brewed beer in one of the stylish bars, or maybe a coffee in one of the waffle houses. Strolling along the narrow streets, many of which are pedestrian, you’ll be enthralled by the unique architecture, while the shops will tempt you with their fine chocolates, Flemish lace and other locally-crafted wares.

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Activity Level:

• 3 Challenging