Imagine cycling through Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes, exploring charming villages, and then returning to your comfortable floating hotel at the end of the day. Boat Bike Tours offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation—and that’s exactly what our experienced tour leader Tammy shares in a recent episode of the Active Travel Adventures podcast.
Plan your trip
Why choose a Boat Bike Tour?
Tammy highlights some of the key reasons travellers love these tours:
- Unpack once, explore endlessly – Because your ship moves with you, there’s no hassle with having to pack and unpack whenever you change hotels.
- Comfort & convenience – The cabins are cozy, the meals (included) are delicious, and there are even small laundry facilities onboard.
- Flexibility – The routes can be adjusted depending on the weather and your group or individual preferences.
- E-bikes available – Riders of all levels can enjoy these tours. Taking an e-bike if you want will allow you to enjoy the journey without getting too tired.
- Seasonal highlights – Choose your dates depending on what you want to see: tulip fields in spring, lavender in summer, or golden barley fields in the fall.
The best tours, recommended by Tammy
From historical cities to unspoiled nature, Tammy shares some of her top picks in the podcast:
- For history lovers – The Amsterdam to Bruges and Hanseatic Cities tour immerse you in European culture and history.
- For nature enthusiasts – The Discover Friesland tour and Northern Islands tour offer peaceful cycling routes and incredible birdwatching.
- For food and culture seekers – Our tours in France combine cycling with mouthwatering culinary experiences.
- For active adventurers – The Croatian Islands tour offers stunning coastal rides, island hopping, and a perfect mix of culture, history, and nature.
Who goes on a Boat Bike Tour?
Tammy notes that most guests are between 65 and 70 years old, but that number is slowly shifting as younger travelers discover the joy of bike and barge trips. Guests come from all over the world, particularly North America and Germany, and English is the primary language spoken on board.
Tamara shares her top tips for first-timers
- Prepare your “sit bones”! – Long rides can be tough if you’re not used to them. Start cycling regularly before your trip to build endurance and get comfortable in the saddle. Even short rides a few times a week will help!
- Choose the right bike – Not sure if you can handle long distances? E-bikes are a great option! They provide extra support on hills and longer routes, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without worrying about getting too tired. Prefer a traditional bike? No problem—just make sure you’re comfortable riding it for a few hours at a time.
- Pick the best time to go – Timing makes a difference! Want to see tulip fields in full bloom? Spring is the best season for a colorful ride through the Netherlands. Prefer warm, sunny cycling days? Summer offers lush landscapes and long daylight hours. Looking for fewer crowds? Early fall is a great alternative with cooler temperatures and stunning golden scenery.
- Enjoy the journey! – Boat Bike Tours makes travel seamless. Unpack once, explore endlessly, and let your floating hotel take care of the rest. With comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and expert tour leaders, you can focus on making unforgettable memories.
Got inspired by Tammy’s highlights and tips? There’s even more to discover! Find a cozy spot and tune in to the full podcast for more of Tammy’s surprising insights and travel ideas. And pssst… here’s a bonus – listen closely for a special discount on your next Boat Bike Tour!
More information
Would you like to plan your own cycling and boating vacation? Call us at (203) 814-1249 or email [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help. Tip: sign up for our newsletter and always stay informed about our latest trips and great offers.
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