Value Alert: 10 Spring Days In Northern Europe Sandwiched Between Transatlantic Cruises

Springtime brings the least expensive eastbound Transatlantic crossings-- often less than $100 per person per night for an oceanview cabin. Coincidentally, Cunard usually offers a westbound sailing from Southampton on the Queen Mary 2 below $200 per person per night in oceanview.

Tulip Field, Holland

Here is one example that leverages these crossings to deliver 10 days on the ground in Northern Europe, starting in Holland in the midst of the annual Tulip frenzy. You or your travel agent can build similar itineraries departing from other United States ports on various cruise lines.

First Leg: Tampa To Rotterdam 15 Nights Via Key West, Bermuda, Ponta Delgada, Bres and Cherbourg France, Zeebrugge, Belgium

April 15, 2018. Holland America Rotterdam, 1316 passengers, built 1997, refurbished 2017. Oceanview about $1000 to $1400 per person, depending on cruise agent promotions. Bonus: Great ports, including two in France.

Second Leg: Tulip Time Plus The Rest Of Northern Europe

April 30-May 9. Ten days to see Holland during the gorgeous Tulip season and explore Northern Europe on your own, or book a private or group tour. You control your land itinerary and budget.

Third Leg: Fly Nonstop Amsterdam to Southampton for Convenient Connection To Queen Mary 2 Return To U.S.

May 9, 2018. Fly to Southampton nonstop from Amsterdam on Flybe or KLM, about one hour, $60 to $100 per person. Overnight at the modest but conveniently located Southampton Holiday Inn, about $150. This tactic avoids Heathrow, one of world’s worst airports, and the expensive two hour drive to Southampton.

Fourth Leg: Southampton To Brooklyn 7 Nights On The Only Remaining True Ocean Liner, Queen Mary 2

Return May 10-17, 2018: Cunard Queen Mary 2, 3000 passengers, Built 2004, refurbished 2016.Oceanview about $1250 per person, balcony from $1500, lowest prices of the season.

A Guidebook To Help You Plan Your Trip

Amazon: "Lonely Planet The Netherlands is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Stroll the intricate canals of Amsterdam, revel in Utrecht's nightlife or stand amid acres of flowering colour in South Holland; all with your trusted travel companion" You can order here: Lonely Planet The Netherlands (Travel Guide)