CroisiEurope unveils Christmas market cruise along Belgium’s canals

CroisiEurope has launched a brand-new cruise that takes guests to some of the Christmas markets along Belgium’s canals.

The four-day cruise, which launches in December 2025, is between Bruges and Ghent and includes visits to the Christmas markets in those cities. 

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 mouth-watering dishes, guests are guaranteed a truly personalized service.

The cruise will operate between Bruges and Ghent on December 6 and 14, 2025, and between Ghent and Bruges on December 2 and 10, 2025.

Prices start from CA$1,694 per person for the cruise with all meals and drinks onboard, excursions and port fees.