Comments on: Boat Bike Tours: A review of “Hansa Highlights”

By: Rachel Heller

Rachel Heller — Thu, 02 Jan 2020 12:58:06 +0000

In reply to Sondra. People seem to keep going back, so I think my review is pretty consistent with other people's experiences. Even when we biked in the rain it was enjoyable, which frankly surprised me. I think next time, if there is a next time, I'll take along one of those really big rain ponchos, the kind that you drape over your handlebars and it keeps all of you dry without being too warm.

By: Sondra

Sondra — Tue, 31 Dec 2019 22:38:57 +0000

Very nice review, Rachel!
We have taken two Boat Bike Tours, Southern Holland aboard de Amsterdam in August of 2018 and Hansa Highlights in early May, 2019. We brought small folding bikes from the US. One significant benefit was that we each had our favorite saddles, which helped with saddle pain. That said, the rental bikes available looked fine and were in very good condition.
We loved riding through the forests, particularly the Veluwe and the short route on Flevoland, on Thursday. Unfortunately, we had our share of rain and cooler than expected weather, but we had a wonderful time and would love to go again.
We also found the guides to be superb, the ship’s crew to be very helpful and polite, and the food to be great; while breakfast was sufficient, supper was amazing.

By: Anita

Anita — Tue, 12 Nov 2019 12:42:40 +0000

I mean, Hansa is nice and the whole boat and bike tour concept. However, your photos are just top-notch. I enjoyed this post. Well done!

By: Rachel Heller

Rachel Heller — Mon, 21 Oct 2019 16:13:31 +0000

In reply to Charlotte Winnier. Wow! Seven? You must really like them! This is quite an endorsement!

By: Charlotte Winnier

Charlotte Winnier — Thu, 17 Oct 2019 14:44:27 +0000

We have taken seven of these trips, including one of the sail/bike variety. They are all wonderful for different reasons. The advantage of the sail/bike trip is if you travel with a person who doesn’t want to start first thing, no problem as you are in a harbor and will be all day. Picking a favorite would be like picking a favourite child. That being said, the Magnifique barges are very deserving of the luxury tag. They have all the great details that make these trips even more special. But, if the more basic boat is taking the trip you want, do not hesitate. Spending time in your room is not why you take these trips. I recommend the spirit of adventure and the daily exploring. It is fantastic.

By: Jeff & Crystal Bryant

Jeff & Crystal Bryant — Wed, 16 Oct 2019 16:32:03 +0000

We are completely infatuated with the idea of a boat and bike tour. It looks like you got to see an amazing amount of countryside, all while enjoying a comfortable room for the night.

By: Judy Freedman

Judy Freedman — Mon, 14 Oct 2019 22:40:32 +0000

This sounds like a really interesting trip with a combination of traveling by boat for lodging and bicycling. I think I would need an electric bicycle as well. It would be fun to go on the tulip tour in the spring. I’ve always wanted to visit Holland and see the tulips but I’ve never thought of doing a bike and barge tour. Thanks for sharing the idea.