Cruising along the waterways of the Netherlands by barge we visit seven historical towns from the Dutch Golden Age. We become acquainted with their history of art, commerce, industry and water based transport systems stemming from the 17th century. It was during this important historical period that the Dutch Masters painted their most famous works. As we cycle through some of Holland's most picturesque countryside we are allowed an inside view to the contemporary remnants of industries steeped in Dutch history. We visit the infamous ceramic artists & potters of 'Delft Blue' chinaware, Flemish linen manufacturers, cheese makers and gin distillers as we learn of the diverse cultures and history that have shaped contemporary life in the Netherlands.