Tulips, Waterways, and Windmills: A Glatt Kosher Tour and Jewish Vacation Through the Netherlands

Sail on an all-kosher, all-inclusive Jewish vacation through the Netherlands and Belgium, July 29–August 5, 2026. This glatt kosher tour takes place on the five-star riverboat, The Emerald Sky. Enjoy bright, airy cabins with panoramic windows and private balconies. Relax in the indoor pool, fitness room, and private lounge. Experience European discovery with easy unpack-once travel and the assurance of strict kashrut.

Onboard life includes a fully supervised glatt kosher kitchen and diverse dining options. There’s also an onboard synagogue with daily minyanim. Enjoy engaging lectures, culinary events, and programs that connect destinations to Jewish history and culture. Shabbat is an integral part of the journey, with schedules and amenities designed for observance. This alignment enhances the sanctity of the day and elevates the experience.

The itinerary starts in Amsterdam with a welcome reception and dinner. The ship glides past gabled facades and storied canals. This sets a lovely scene, ending with an after-dinner toast, orientation, and a lively shanty choir performance.

The next day, Antwerp shows its importance as a major European port and a Jewish community hub. You can explore the charming old center. Then, join a Jewish heritage tour to discover a community known for its Orthodox vibrancy and strong ties to the diamond trade.

Day three brings Veere and Middelburg. In Veere, a charming harbor town with city rights since 1353, stroll by boutiques, the carillon-topped town hall, and the Scottish House—remnants of a rich wool trade. Return to the ship for a special Shabbat while docked in Middelburg. Shabbat morning features community programs and time to relax. In the afternoon, enjoy a unique, Shabbat-friendly walking tour through Middelburg’s streets and heritage. A highlight is visiting the local community at the Middelburg Synagogue. This red-brick gem, with arched windows, was built in 1705. It’s the oldest synagogue in the Netherlands outside Amsterdam.

The cruise mixes cultural charm with historical depth. You’ll see timeless bridges, windmills, and towns crossed by canals. These sites blend with memorials, synagogues, and stories that highlight centuries of Jewish presence.

The broader picture tells a strong story. It begins with early arrivals under Roman rule. Then came Sephardic refugees after Spain’s expulsion. By the seventeenth century, they integrated and thrived. The Holocaust brought devastation, but today, the community stands resilient with about 30,000 members.

From tulip fields to coastal cities, this glatt kosher tour mixes exploration and faith. It combines rich Jewish heritage with peaceful river travel. Enjoy an all-inclusive Jewish vacation—eight days filled with scenery, learning, community, and memorable moments on the water.