The cruise is over, so we expect an early arrival in Amsterdam. Our previous plan was to take a train from Amsterdam’s central station to Rotterdam and then travel to the port. Plans changed when we discovered that both Amsterdam and Rotterdam train stations were completely shut down for track work. Time for alternatives.
Richard’s ReLive video is here: https://www.relive.com/view/vrqDX8DzyLq
5.60 miles, sun alternating with drizzle.
The ship was slowly heading toward the Amsterdam port in the early morning. Our expected arrival time was 7 am.
After saying goodbye to Ann, we headed to Delft for a quick visit.
The Oude Kerk in Delft is known for its leaning tower, and as the final resting place for painter Johannes Vermeer. Because it was Sunday, all churches were closed for tourists.
The Nieuwe Kerk faces the Market Square.It also is closed to tourists on Sunday.
Delft is known for its blue and white pottery, canals, and also known as the home of Johannes Vermeer.
A city mural shows off the traditional blue and white pattern along with several of the city sights.
The Nieuwe Kerk appears small from the Market Square, but it has a large footprint. We saw a few folks entering, so we tried the door. We were reminded that there were no tourists allowed, but we were invited to the church service at 12:30. It sounded good.
The church was constructed between 1381 and 1496, about a century after the Old Church.
After the service, we were able to take a quick look at the famous memorials of the church.
The father of the nation, William the Silent (William I of Orange) is honored by the elaborate marble monument in the church choir. Every Dutch King and Queen from William I to Queen Juliana and Prince Bernhardt are interred here.
The entry to the Royal burial vault is sealed by a massive 5,000-kilogram stone embedded in the floor. Four heavy copper/brass rings at its corner are used to hoist it mechanically for funerals.
The stone is inscribed “Here William I, the Father of the Fatherland, expects the resurrection.” It is carved with the official coat of arms of the house of Orange-Nassau.
The P&O ferry “Pride of Rotterdam” is ready for us at the Europort outside Rotterdam.
We have booked a small room for the overnight sailing. The seas were calm.
2 Responses
Oooo. Your overnight sailing room is so cute!
Nor quite as luxurious accommodations as the cruise ship!