It may seem out of reach, but spring is merely dozing in Holland in preparation for a riot of tulip color. See for yourself while on a themed Tulip Cruise aboard the 12-passenger Panache hotel barge with European Waterways. Six-night cruises begin March 27 and continue through May 8. Along the way, tiptoe through the blooms at Keukenhof Gardens, where 100 acres of tulips have earned the landscape world renown. Excursions also include a trip to the Aalsmeer flower auction to witness the action firsthand as more than 17 million flowers are traded on a daily basis; and to the Royal Delft factory to watch as porcelain objects are created and hand painted.

Other day tours include historic Leiden where Rembrandt was born, and the Frans Hals Museum in Haarlem to view Old Dutch Masters. Cruise prices are available on European Waterways’ website, and include a Champagne welcome, all gourmet meals, open bar, selection of fine wines, escorted excursions and entrance fees to sites on the itinerary. Guests will have opportunities to explore on their own via bicycle, and to enjoy the use of other hotel barge facilities, which include a spa pool.