ghent canal boat tour

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Boat trips in Ghent

These boat companies offer enjoyable trips on Ghent’s gentle waters. Traditional boat trips are held daily. To find out about themed tours, contact one of the boat companies in advance. The captain on board provides a guided tour in several languages. 

The people of Bootjes in Gent and Gent Watertoerist are happy to help you on board with your wheelchair (if there are multiple people with a wheelchair, please let us know beforehand). 

De bootjes van Gent - Rederij Dewaele

Gent Watertoerist

Rederij De Gentenaer

Boat in Gent

The Ghent water tram: hop-on, hop-off

From 1 April to 1 November Ghent will also feature a water tram service, which makes a circuit around the city. Jump aboard at one of the water stops. It’s free with the CityCard !

Hop on hop off water tram

Boat Trips - with skipper

If you want to discover Ghent by boat, you can rent a vessel with skipper. Whether you want a cosy trip for two or a lavish family boat tour, there are rental boats for every type of group. Some boat rentals also offer perks, such as an onboard breakfast or a delicious aperitif.   

Cruise 4 Two

Leiecruises

Viadagio vzw

Benelux Rederij

De Gentse Barge

De Griffioen

Boat Trips - sail yourself

Don’t feel like joining a shared boat trip and don’t want someone else to take the helm? Rent a vessel without skipper for yourself or your party. Book the boat of your choice in advance and you are sure to have a vessel. You can guide your party through Ghent’s inland waterways yourself or take a trip down the river Lys if you prefer something more laid back.   

Leie Yachting

Minerva Boat Company

Kajak en rafting

Want to take a boat trip and flex your muscles at the same time? That is also possible in Ghent. Rent a kayak (two paddles), a canoe (one paddle) or a rafting boat and sail down Ghent’s waterways!  

Kajaks Korenlei

Rafting & Outdoor Events

Kuiperskano

Sailing your own boat

Are you coming to Ghent with your own boat? Plan your visit and consult all information about the marinas, shipping routes, etc. in the city here.   

Sail your own boat to Ghent

Gent-Watertoerist MORE THAN JUST A BOAT TRIP

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The Ghentian tour

Guided boat trip of 50 minutes including 1 drink per person

Followed by a guided chocolate walking tour of 2 hours

Including lunch

Program for birthdays/bachelor parties/team building - Formula 2

Followed by a visit to brewery including a beer tasting

Program for birthdays/bachelor parties/team building - Formula 3

Followed by a guided walking tour of 1,5 hours

Including dinner

Program for birthdays/bachelor parties/team building - Formula 1

Guided boat trip of 50 minutes including 2 drinks per person

On the trail of Ghent's industrial past

Guided visit of 1h30 to the Museum of Industry

Guided walking tour of 2 hours with theme ' Ghent in the 19th century'

From the ruins of Saint Bavo's Abbey to the Patershol

Guided walking tour of 2 hours along the Saint-Bavo's Abbey and surroundings

Guided boat trip of 90 minutes including sandwich lunch and coffee/tea/water

Guided walking tour of 1 hour in the Patershol neighbourhood

Closing off with dessert and coffee

Rondvaart + wandeling

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Shore Excursion Details

Ghent delights: canal charms & wonders, brussels / bruges (zeebrugge), belgium.

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• 5 hrs Estimate Duration

A scenic ride through the charming Flemish countryside takes you to Ghent, a delightful town that is proud of its medieval heritage.

Your walking tour starts at the center of the medieval city of Ghent, at St. Michaels Bridge, with its view of Ghent’s three glorious medieval steeples. Your guide will lead you to the pontoon where you’ll board a canal boat for a fun and thorough exploration of the city. As you cruise through the historic city, see highlights such as the impressive castle of the counts, the Fish Market, 13th century monasteries and the ancient port of Ghent along with its mercantile houses.

Once your canal cruise ends, you’ll have free time to independently explore this gracious city. You may choose to enjoy a locally brewed beer in one of the stylish bars, or maybe a coffee in one of the waffle houses. Strolling along the narrow streets, many of which are pedestrian, you’ll be enthralled by the unique architecture, while the shops will tempt you with their fine chocolates, Flemish lace and other locally-crafted wares.

Need to Know:

Check out the, activity attributes, excursion type:.

Activity Level:

• 3 Challenging

Guided Tour Ghent

• Professional English-speaking guide
• Food and drinks
• Museum entrance
• Sint-Baafsplein 2, 9000 Gent, Belgium Meet outside the Belfort Tower. Your guide will be holding a large black umbrella.
• Gravensteen, Sint-Veerleplein 11, 9000 Gent, Belgium The tour will end next to the Castle of the Counts of Flanders, so you can enjoy the city on your own now!
• Wheelchair accessible
• Pushchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible
• Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travellers can participate
• You will receive the confirmation at time of booking
• Our guides have your best interests in mind; while the tour usually includes the sites & stories mentioned and lasts about 2.5 hours, your tour may vary depending on what your guide thinks is best for your group.
• No meals are included but your guide will be happy to point you some great food spots :)
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 30 travellers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• St. Bavo's Cathedral (Sint-Baafskathedraal)
• Ghent Town Hall (Stadhuis)
• Graslei and Korenlei
• Saint Nicholas Church
• Masons' Guild Hall

Similar experiences

• You'll start at Sint-Baafsplein 2 Sint-Baafsplein 2, 9000 Gent, Belgium Meet outside the Belfort Tower. Your guide will be holding a large black umbrella. See address & details
• 1 Ghent Town Hall (Stadhuis) Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 2 Het Belfort van Gent Stop: 10 minutes See details
• 3 St. Bavo's Cathedral (Sint-Baafskathedraal) Stop: 25 minutes See details
• 4 Saint Nicholas Church Stop: 3 minutes See details
• 5 Masons' Guild Hall Stop: 2 minutes See details
• 6 Korenmarkt Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 7 Saint Michael's Bridge Stop: 10 minutes See details
• 8 Graslei and Korenlei Stop: 10 minutes See details
• 9 OOOST Stop: 7 minutes See details
• 10 Kleine Vismarkt Stop: 5 minutes See details
• You'll end at Gravensteen Sint-Veerleplein 11, 9000 Gent, Belgium The tour will end next to the Castle of the Counts of Flanders, so you can enjoy the city on your own now! See address & details

• mektravel2018 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Not the best.... The guide was super friendly and extremely knowledgeable. The walking tour did not have much walking or many points of interest. It was mainly very long dialogs of the history as we stood for long periods of time in one general place. Often we could not hear the guide from a few people back in the group. It was not as active nor engaging as many other walking tours I have been on. Read more Written 28 April 2024
• 600rads 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A long but productive day. Two nice cities in a day. It can be a little tiring but worth it. Our tour guide Sergio was concise and his command of English was good. Read more Written 24 April 2024
• 600rads 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Worth a trip to Belgium Bruges is a wonderful little city filled with history. Our tour guide Alvaro was straight and to the point. The tour operated at a good pace. Read more Written 24 April 2024
• 705debbyb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Highly recommend Tor guide very, very knowledgeable. Learned so much and made it fun. Could answer all questions. We got lucky with beautiful weather, too! Read more Written 18 April 2024
• Ramu85 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Colourful and captivating Very colourful town with character and history. Tour guide was well read and articulate. A few hours felt a bit rushed to cover the whole town and the route back to the starting point was rather challenging to do alone in a new town leading to us missing the bus ride home, which was the only main drawback of the tour Read more Written 18 April 2024
• ActiveRetiree64 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour. Excellent guided walk, leisurely pace but bear in mind you'll be walking around two miles. All the sights explained really well without being too detailed! Although the walking part ends near the boat tour entrance, the ticket allows you to take the canal trip later, if you like to stop to buy chocolate or have lunch at one of the many recommended places nearby. Well worth the cost. Read more Written 17 April 2024
• PatriciaS4360 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Well organised tour, definitely recommend The meeting point was clear - stand within the circle outside the Central Station and supermarket and there are several guides directing people to the right trip. Our Guide was Marc and he was excellent. We set off on time and had a photo stop at the Atomium before going to Antwerp then Ghent. The walking tours by Marc were really interesting and just the right pace. Free time in both places was the right amount of time. Coach arrived back about 18.45. We'd considered doing this trip on the train but this way worked out easier, cheaper and included an excellent guide. I would definitely recommend this trip. Read more Written 15 April 2024
• peik2015 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great trip Mark is a different kind of tour guide, very funny but very knowledgeable, we had a couple of interactive plays along the tour, the trip was thoroughly enjoyable. The 4 hours free time gave us time to visit attractions such as St. Bavo’s alter piece. Read more Written 14 April 2024
• cyrushfernandes 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Well organised . Guide Eros - very knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Would recommend this tour . The success of these tours is mainly down to the tour guide and Eros was excellent providing a great history of Bruges and Brussels Read more Written 4 April 2024
• fongloolow 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Colorful Town with lots to explore Beautiful little town with lots of local delights chocolates, waffles . Colorful flowers blooming. Surprised to see Cherry Blossoms . Read more Written 2 April 2024
• Starlight1967 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Bruges and Ghent! Exploring. Terrific day spent with Julianna. The tour was very well organized and efficient. Her commentary was interesting and insightful. Read more Written 29 March 2024
• AllanW45 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Enjoyable walking tour of Bruges Our guide Eros was very pleasant & friendly. He took the party on an enjoyable journey through Bruges old town telling us the story of Bruges as we went. My only suggestion would be that the meeting point at the train station isn’t very convenient for the those people already staying in Bruges. However Eros did inform us of the free shuttle bus at the end of the tour. Read more Written 29 March 2024
• Jessi G 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles A true taste of Holland! We enjoyed our bus trip from Brussels to Amsterdam. We enjoyed viewing the waterways and colorful homes. This trip also included a stroll through the infamous red light district and a trip to the flower market. Interesting day! Read more Written 28 March 2024
• Jessi G 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles A lovely day trip from Brussels to Dinant! A lovely day trip from Brussels to Luxembourg and Dinant! Our first stop was Dinant and it was so beautiful! Luxembourg was our final stop and it was lovely as well. I would have enjoyed more time in Dinant on this tour though. Read more Written 28 March 2024
• Tanq76 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Disorganized/Driver needs to treat tourist fairly I’d like to start my review with the positive side. English speaking tour guide: Bruno was amazing! Helpful & polite. Spanish speaking tour guide: Awful!!! Disorganize… Bus driver: Paolo, the culprit of our bad day… “Buendia” simply means “Good day”!!! I wish it started our day that way. We got to the central station 15 mins before the tour starts, checked in with our tour guide (Bruno). We waited ‘til we were told to go the bus assigned to us. We found out, there’s a Spanish speaking group in the same bus. All is good upon knowing that. Bruno pointed us to where the bus is parked so we went ahead (5 of us) walked with the group. We understand it’s first come first serve when it comes to seat choices( it’s not our first rodeo joining a tour group) . As we get closer to the bus, we formed a line, my friend asked is this the bus to to Dinant & going to Luxemburg? The driver (Paolo) said; STOP 🛑. I was behind her, the driver also said to me.. WAIT…Spanish speaking group were coming with LUCIA(the tour guide) I kid you not, the driver/Poolo.. directed the Spanish speaking group to go ahead get in the bus… Seriously! We didn’t get a memo that there’s such a thing… Spanish speaking group first.As far as we know, we paid the same… arrived ahead on time, waited in line to get in the bus… and to just HEAR from the driver to STOP 🛑 and WAIT? Is this how Buendia tours operates? We’ve travelled all over the world book with several/variety of tours.. this is the first time we were awfully treated. That LUCIA, should have directed her group… girl, seats are first come first serve bases. Lucia & Paolo, we’re awful. Our point is, would you have treated us differently if we look Caucasian? It’s unfortunate because we understand Spanish too… and you treated us that way. We we’re Asian American, we follow rules. We were 8 minutes late leaving from Dinant because the other group wasn’t on time… there you go Lucia. I will NEVER recommend BUENDIA tours… It’s really a disappointing start of the day for us… but considering how far we traveled to get to the Netherlands… 🇳🇱 we had to shake off this unfair treatment we got. Read more Written 27 March 2024

More to explore in Ghent

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Guided Tour Ghent provided by Buendia Tours

Ghent: Guided Walking Tour and Canal Boat Trip

As the gentle ripples of the canal water reflect the centuries-old architecture lining the banks, the guided walking tour and canal boat trip in Ghent beckon curious minds and history enthusiasts alike. Uncover hidden tales of medieval guildhalls and cobblestone streets while gliding beneath charming bridges, a tapestry of the city’s past and present interwoven seamlessly.

But what truly sets this experience apart? Stay tuned to discover a unique element that elevates this journey beyond the ordinary, enticing travelers to delve deeper into Ghent’s storied past.

• Engaging walking tour with a knowledgeable guide.
• Informative boat trip exploring historical landmarks .
• Mixed reviews on the necessity and experience of the canal boat ride.
• Flexibility in booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• Ghent: 50-Minute Medieval Center Guided Boat Trip
• Ghent: Beer and Sightseeing Adventure
• Ghent: Private 2-Hour Walking Tour
• Ghent Self Guided Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Game

Activity Details

Curious about what the guided tour of Ghent entails in terms of activities?

The experience includes a 2.5-hour journey filled with insightful guided commentary and exploration of historical landmarks . Participants can expect to visit iconic sites like the Church of St. Nicholas and the Cathedral of St. Bavo, delving into the rich history and architectural wonders of Ghent.

The itinerary may vary slightly but promises an engaging walking tour alongside a canal boat trip, providing a unique perspective of this enchanting city. With the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, visitors have the freedom to adjust their plans accordingly.

Participant Information

For participants joining the guided tour of Ghent, it’s important to check the availability for the number of individuals and be aware that the meeting point may vary depending on the selected tour option. When preparing for the tour, remember these key points:

Comfortable Shoes : Given the walking tour included in the itinerary, wearing comfortable shoes is highly recommended to ensure an enjoyable experience without discomfort.

Language Options : Participants have the choice between Spanish and English tours, allowing them to select the language they’re most comfortable with for a better understanding of the guide’s explanations.

Cancellation Policy : Enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour to accommodate any unexpected changes in plans.

Booking and Payment

To secure your spot on the guided tour of Ghent, you can reserve today without making any upfront payment. This flexibility allows travelers to plan ahead without immediate financial commitment. Plus, the option to reserve as a gift for friends or family adds a thoughtful touch to the experience. Here is a table detailing the payment options and gift reservations available for the Ghent walking tour and canal boat trip:

Customer Reviews

Visitors’ experiences on the guided tour of Ghent and canal boat trip are reflected in a diverse range of reviews, highlighting both positive and critical aspects of the tour.

Some guests appreciated the historical accuracy presented during the walking tour, while others expressed skepticism in their reviews.

Tour guide anecdotes were positively mentioned, adding depth to the sightseeing experience.

Mixed feelings were shared regarding the boat ride experience, with some finding it informative but others questioning its necessity.

Review Summary

Exploring the review summary reveals insights into the guided tour of Ghent, showcasing varied perspectives on the experience. Visitors appreciated the engaging walking tour and noted the informative stretches during the boat trip. However, there were mixed reviews regarding the necessity and overall experience of the boat ride. The tour guide’s expertise received positive feedback for providing historical information and current insights. Some skepticism about historical accuracy was mentioned in a few reviews. The transportation was rated poorly at 1/5, while value for money scored 3.6/5. Below is a summary of the review ratings:

As you embark on the guided tour of Ghent, navigate your way through the charming city streets towards the starting point for an immersive experience.

To reach the canal boat trip and explore the historical landmarks, follow these directions:

• Head south on Veldstraat towards Korenmarkt Square.
• Upon reaching Korenmarkt Square, continue straight to Graslei Street.
• The canal boat embarkation point is located near the Gravensteen Castle, offering picturesque views of the city’s waterways.

These straightforward directions will lead you to the starting point for the boat trip, where you can begin your journey through Ghent’s captivating historical sites.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Ghent: Guided City Tour With Food and Drink Tastings
• Ghent: Medieval Center Guided Boat Tour
• Ghent: Guided Urban Bike Tour
• The Walter Case” Ghent : Outdoor Escape Game
• Peter Pan” Ghent: Scavenger Hunt for Kids (8-12)
• Ghent: Private Tour in Historical Center

Common questions

What is the best time of day to take the guided walking tour and canal boat trip in ghent.

When exploring Ghent, the best time for the guided walking tour and canal boat trip is late afternoon. This allows for capturing the best photography spots and enjoying sunset views. Morning tours offer cooler weather, while afternoon tours might have busier streets.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants on the Tour?

Age restrictions apply; children’s participation varies by tour. Check tour details for specific age requirements. Ensure compliance with guidelines to guarantee a smooth experience. Consider all participants’ needs for an enjoyable outing.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Trip?

Yes, participants can bring their own food or drinks on the boat trip, allowing for picnic options and a variety of beverage choices. It enhances the experience, offering flexibility and personalization during the tour.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour, Particularly for Visits to Religious Landmarks?

For visits to religious landmarks, participants should adhere to cultural norms by wearing respectful attire. While there isn’t a strict dress code, modest clothing is generally recommended to show reverence during the tour.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

During the tour, participants can find restroom facilities available at designated locations. The tour duration of 2.5 hours ensures ample opportunities to access these facilities. It’s recommended to inquire about restroom stops at the beginning of the tour.

Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

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• Half-Day Private Highlights and Hidden Gems of Ghent Tour
• Discover Mons While Playing! Escape Game – the Walter Case
• Self Guided City Audio Tour in Ghent
• Lottery Hunt Outdoor Escape Game in Historic Ghent
• Self-Guided Pub Trail in Ghent With Online App
• Escape Room

Experience the best of Ghent with a guided walking tour and canal boat trip that showcases the city’s history and beauty.

With the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, participants can enjoy a flexible and informative journey through iconic landmarks.

Whether you prefer English or Spanish tours, this combined adventure offers a unique perspective on Ghent’s cultural tapestry.

Don’t miss out on this enriching and unforgettable experience!

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Ghent appears almost magical the first time you see its architecture. My partner and I were in a dreamlike trance as our eyes moved from one beautiful building to the next. And we had just experienced the beautiful canals of Amsterdam the previous day!

One of the things you must do while in Ghent is explore this highlight with a canal boat tour. It will give you the best up-close views of Ghent’s stunning architecture.

You can choose between a variety of different canal tours, from a hop on hop off cruise, to a romantic picnic down the canal—though for a true taste of history, opt for a tour in a classic wooden boat. To find a tour operator, Ghent’s tourism website has a list of recommendations.

Information on this page, including website, location, and opening hours, is subject to have changed since this page was last published. If you would like to report anything that’s inaccurate, let us know at [email protected].

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Boat Tour on the historic Ghent canals

Book the perfect cultural getaway with our exclusive Boat Tour Package at the Ghent Marriott.

How to Book

Be sure that the Promotional Code appears in the Corporate/Promotional code box when making your online reservation, or call +32 92-339393 and ask for the promotional code. For toll-free numbers outside the US please visit Global Reservation Numbers

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• Marvel at the architecture and history of Ghent
• Hotel is right at the water front and pick up point
• Stay in the city center of Ghent
• Promotional Code : 11P What's this ? The promotional code is associated with a special offer or rate and will be applied when your book this offer. Please reference this code when calling the Customer Engagement Centre
• Valid stay dates : 17 January 2024 - 16 January 2025

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Ghent by Canal Cruise

Zeebrugge (Brussels), Belgium

Activity Level

Excursion Type

Local Sightseeing,All

Wheelchair Accessible

Starting At

Minimum Age

Information Not Currently Available

Approximately 5 Hours

Meals Included

Meals not included

Ghent is a dynamic modern city with a center from the Middle Ages.

After a one-hour drive on the highway, passing the typical Flemish countryside, you'll arrive at the medieval city of Ghent.

Board a canal boat for a fun and thorough overview of the whole city, past and present. You'll see the old guildhalls (built by bargees, bricklayers, corn-measurers, fishmongers and marksmen of the Hagbut Association), the impressive Castle of the Counts, the old Fish Market facing the even-older Meat Hall, and 13th-century monasteries previously inhabited by Augustins and Dominicans.

Pass the ancient Port of Ghent, known for its old quay walls and the mercantile houses of yesteryear, strategically located not too far away from seedy inns that were packed with women of negotiable virtue.

The canal boat stops in the center of Ghent, allowing you around 1 hour of free time before heading back to the ship.

This tour is ideal for guests who prefer minimal walking; however, participants must be able to climb 10 steps on the canal boat. Unfortunately it is not possible to store wheelchairs on the canal boat. Tour does not operate on holidays. Tour cannot operate from July 19th until July 28th because of local festivities.

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Orange crush: Boats packed with revelers tour Amsterdam canals to celebrate the king’s birthday

Thousands of people took to the canals of Amsterdam on Saturday to celebrate the Dutch king’s 57th birthday. Dressed in orange - the national color - they packed small boats and sailed down the historic waterways of the capital. (AP video by Ahmad Seir)

People dance on a boat during King’s Day celebrations in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Saturday, April 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

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An orange-clad man applauds for a girl playing violin as his orange-clad dog, bottom right corner, runs off during King’s Day celebrations in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Saturday, April 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

Two girls sell orange pastries during King’s Day celebrations in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Saturday, April 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

Mud, a rain soaked blanket and wet items are being sold during King’s Day celebrations in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Saturday, April 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

An orange-clad man and his orange-clad dog listen to a girl playing violin during King’s Day celebrations in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Saturday, April 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

An egg explodes on impact as a reveller takes part in a game during King’s Day celebrations in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Saturday, April 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

AMSTERDAM (AP) — Decked in the national orange color, dancing to music, and eating orange-glazed pastries, many in the Netherlands Saturday are marking King’s Day , celebrating the birthday of their monarch who is enjoying a very slight rise in popularity as per a national poll.

As King Willem-Alexander celebrated his 57th birthday with his family in the northeastern city of Emmen, people across the country engaged in the traditional “free markets” held on that day, selling second-hand toys, books and other items. Others toured through the historic canals of the capital, Amsterdam as orange smoke from flares held aloft one boat drifted over vessels of all shapes and sizes jostling for space on a busy canal.

“Celebrating your birthday with your own family is the most beautiful thing you can experience. I’m very happy everybody is back,” Willem-Alexander told Dutch broadcaster NOS during a walkabout in Emmen, 190 kilometers (120 miles) northeast of the Dutch capital.

An annual poll published by the NOS for King’s Day showed Willem-Alexander’s popularity edging up very slightly since last year to 6.6 out of 10. His Argentine-born wife, Queen Maxima, scored 7.1 out of 10 in the poll of 1,015 people, conducted earlier this month.

The royals’ popularity took a hit during the COVID-19 pandemic after Willem-Alexander and his family went on vacation in Greece during a partial lockdown. The royals cut short their break amid national uproar and Willem-Alexander took the unusual step of issuing a video message to express his regret and contrition for the trip.

The king’s three daughters, Amalia, Alexia and Ariane have all spent time out of the country recently — Ariane has been studying in Italy while Alexia has taken a gap year to travel. The eldest and heir to the Dutch throne, Amalia, also returned ahead of the king’s birthday after being forced to leave her student accommodation in Amsterdam and move to Madrid following threats from the criminal underworld.

Amalia, 20, who is studying politics, psychology, law and economics at Amsterdam University, told NOS she was “extremely grateful to everybody who made it possible” for her to live in Spain, where she said she was able to enjoy more freedom than in the Netherlands.

But, she added: “I’m glad to be back.”