Zeebrugge

[jimbo1683]

We intend to book and take the cruise-express bus from Zebrugge to Bruges (because it is one third of the cost of the Cunard organised bus). 

 

Maybe a silly question but we havent cruised before - how do we get from the QV to the bus outside of the port? Do you walk through the port area? Is there a shuttle bus?

[dthompsond1]

You are not allowed to walk in the port area. A free shuttle bus is provided from the ship to the port entrance, takes only a couple of minutes

[Solent Richard]

If you've paid the non saver fare then there should be a free bus into Blankenberge. 

 

From there it's quicker by train...

 

https://solentrichardscruiseblog.com/2015/06/15/zeebrugge-for-dummies/

 

*****

 

[Solent Richard]

And in the event you'd like some tips on what to see in Bruges, well here you are...

 

https://solentrichardscruiseblog.com/2015/06/15/one-way-to-do-bruges/

 

[John Bull]

The problem with the train from Blankenberge is that the train is only hourly, and you get to Blankenberge station by ship's shutlelbus (payable or included in cruise ticket) meaning you can't plan when you'll arrive at the station. So you could waste up to an hour. And that's a shame, because the train is quick, comfortable and cheap.

 

The map Richard's blog shows the rail station, bottom left. It's a pleasant & level 15 - 20 minute walk to the Markt / Belfort Tower.

 

The express bus  & ships' "Bruges on your own" transfer buses drop on the little island to the right (east) of the train station - they're not permitted into the cobbled centre. From there you cross over Minniwater by the little red bridge and thro Minnewater Park to the centre. Also a pleasant and level 15 - 20 minute walk.

 

BTW the canal cruises are all in similar open boats (because of the low bridges) all follow the same route, and all are the same price. There are boarding points for the canal cruise at various points along the canal - you are returned to the point where you boarded, so your cruise is same length wherever you board & you see the same sights but in a different order. So if you see a short line at one boarding point, join it.

 

JB 🙂

  

Edited July 12, 2022 by John Bull