Saga Cruises Launches Exclusive 2026 River Voyage Through the Netherlands Featuring André Rieu Concert – A Cultural and Scenic Journey Awaits!

Published on December 14, 2025

Saga Cruises has launched an exciting new river cruise for 2026, inviting travellers on a seven‑night journey through the picturesque Dutch waterways. This exclusive voyage combines the natural beauty of the Netherlands, cultural exploration, and a world‑class live performance by André Rieu. Set sail aboard Saga’s luxurious Spirit of the Rhine, a river vessel purposefully designed for intimate and immersive travel, this is a one‑of‑a‑kind experience for cultural enthusiasts and lovers of scenic landscapes.

A Journey Through Iconic Dutch Cities

Saga’s river cruise takes passengers through some of the Netherlands’ most historic and captivating cities, each offering its own unique charm and cultural heritage.

• Amsterdam: The journey begins in Amsterdam, a city renowned for its iconic canals, art museums, and rich history. Here, guests can explore the Rijksmuseum, stroll through Vondelpark, or enjoy a boat tour along the canals, which are UNESCO World Heritage-listed.
• Dordrecht: Next, the cruise sails to Dordrecht, one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands. With its charming medieval centre, visitors can wander through cobbled streets and discover Dordrecht’s ancient churches, historic merchant houses, and picturesque riverside views.
• Utrecht: The city of Utrecht follows, known for its impressive Dom Tower and vibrant old town. Utrecht’s unique feature is its canal system, which includes picturesque canal-side wharfs that were once used for storing goods but now house cafes and boutiques.
• Nijmegen: Moving further along the route, passengers will reach Nijmegen, one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, founded by the Romans. Its rich history, including Roman ruins and medieval buildings, adds a fascinating layer to the trip.
• Roermond: This small yet captivating town is next on the itinerary. Roermond is known for its stunning Gothic architecture, including the Roermond Cathedral, and its charming streets lined with boutiques and cafes.

The Grand Finale: André Rieu Concert in Maastricht

The highlight of the voyage is the exclusive André Rieu concert in Maastricht, where passengers will enjoy a live performance by the world‑famous violinist and his Johann Strauss Orchestra in the beautiful Vrijthof Square.

• Maastricht’s Historic Appeal: A city steeped in history, Maastricht is the perfect backdrop for a performance by André Rieu. With its cobblestone streets, medieval churches, and vibrant cultural life, Maastricht offers a glimpse into the heart of the Netherlands’ heritage. It is here that guests will enjoy a magical evening under the stars, surrounded by centuries of history and culture.
• Concert in Vrijthof Square: André Rieu’s concert will bring the streets of Maastricht to life with the sounds of classical music. This open‑air concert will be a truly unforgettable experience for passengers, offering them a chance to witness Rieu’s iconic performance in one of Europe’s most stunning settings.

The Spirit of the Rhine: Luxury Onboard Experience

The Spirit of the Rhine, Saga Cruises’ flagship river vessel, is designed to offer a comfortable and intimate experience. With its state‑of‑the‑art amenities and luxurious accommodations, passengers can enjoy breathtaking views of the Dutch countryside from their French Balcony rooms. The ship is designed for relaxation, with spacious cabins, gourmet dining, and excellent service. Onboard, guests can relax in the lounge, enjoy live entertainment, and take part in cultural talks and lectures to deepen their understanding of the places they visit.

• Scenic Views: With large windows and spacious rooms, the Spirit of the Rhine ensures that passengers can fully appreciate the beautiful scenery of the Netherlands.
• Dining & Entertainment: The ship’s dining options feature world‑class cuisine, while evening entertainment includes live music and performances, providing guests with a complete onboard experience.

Cultural Immersion at Every Port

Each stop along the cruise is carefully curated to provide cultural enrichment, offering guests the opportunity to learn about the Netherlands’ fascinating history and traditions. Saga’s expert guides will lead walking tours, exploring each city’s most important landmarks, museums, and historical sites.

• Walking Tours: In cities like Dordrecht, Utrecht, and Maastricht, guests will have the chance to take guided walking tours that delve into the history and culture of these incredible locations.
• Local Cuisine & Markets: Throughout the journey, passengers will experience the flavours of Dutch cuisine. From stroopwafels to fresh seafood, guests will have opportunities to indulge in local delicacies and explore the charming markets in each city.

Exclusive Christmas Cruise Option

For those who prefer a more festive experience, Saga Cruises is offering a five‑night Christmas cruise in 2026, featuring a special André Rieu Christmas concert in Maastricht. This shorter itinerary allows passengers to soak in the holiday spirit, enjoy Christmas markets, and witness a spectacular performance by Rieu in a beautifully decorated Maastricht.

Why Choose Saga Cruises’ Dutch Waterways Journey?

• Cultural Depth: The cruise offers a deep dive into the rich cultural heritage of the Netherlands, with visits to both historic cities and quaint towns.
• Exclusive Experience: Saga Cruises’ collaboration with André Rieu brings a one‑of‑a‑kind concert experience, only available on this exclusive river cruise.
• Scenic Relaxation: The Spirit of the Rhine provides a luxurious and relaxed way to explore the Netherlands, with scenic views, excellent dining, and world‑class service.

Book Your 2026 Saga River Cruise Now

With Saga Cruises, the 2026 Dutch Waterways River Cruise offers a unique opportunity to explore the Netherlands in style. From the vibrant streets of Amsterdam to the historic charm of Maastricht, this journey is perfect for those who wish to enjoy both the scenic beauty and the cultural richness of the Netherlands, all while enjoying a world‑class concert by André Rieu.

Book your 2026 Saga river cruise today for a cultural journey through the heart of the Netherlands that combines breathtaking scenery, historical exploration, and incredible live music performances.