Croisieurope Launches A Brand New Hotel Barge Cruise Taking In The Magical Christmas Markets Of Belgium

Tuesday, Jun 24, 2025 0

Europe’s largest river cruise operator, CroisiEurope, has launched a brand new cruise taking guests to some of the most magical Christmas markets along the Belgium canals.

The four-day cruise, which launches in December 2025, is between Bruges and Ghent and includes visits to the Christmas markets in Bruges and Ghent. There are two Christmas markets in Bruges – a large one in Grote Markt which is known for its traditional chalets, ice skating rink and festive decorations, and a smaller, more intimate one near Simon Steyinplein which focuses more on artisanal crafts. Ghent’s Christmas market extends out from Sint-Baafsplein along the Botermarkt and Klein Turkije to the end of the Korenmarkt. Known as ‘Winter in Ghent’ or ‘Gentse Winterfeesten’, it features over 150 wooden stalls selling gifts as well as seasonal food and drink.

Other highlights include a guided tour of Bruges and a tasting of traditional Flemish beer at the Bourgogne des Flandres brewery; a tour of Ghent with a tasting of local specialities; and onboard tastings of hot chocolate, bredeles (Christmas cookies) and sweet Belgian waffles.

The cruise takes place on the MS Raymonde which features just 11 en-suite outward facing cabins, restaurant, lounge bar, sun deck and relaxation area with Jacuzzi. And, with six crew members including a talented chef serving up a variety of mouth-watering dishes, guests are guaranteed a truly personalised service.

The cruise will operate between Bruges and Ghent on 6^th and 14^th December 2025, and between Ghent and Bruges on 2^nd and 10^th December 2025. Prices start from £987 per person for the cruise with all meals and drinks onboard, excursions and port fees. Fly/cruise prices are also available.