Enjoy time this morning to sleep in, do some last-minute shopping, or stroll the canals at your own pace, before meeting your guide for a real Dutch treat. As you approach Zaanse Schans, it's hard to believe you are still in 21st-century Amsterdam. The iconic windmills, their sails turning slowly, provide a historical backdrop against lush meadows. Inside, the creak of wood and the whir of machinery reveal the mills' vital role in Dutch industrial innovation. Dating back to the 17th century, these mills were essential for sawing wood and grinding oil, flour, spices, and pigments. Today, you can still enter a mill and learn from a host how these age-old processes worked. Strolling through Zaanse Schans, you will hear the distinctive clatter of wooden clogs on cobblestones and witness the craftsmanship behind Dutch cheeses and Delft Blue pottery. Artisans at the Weavers' House and Tiemstra's Coopery continue these traditional crafts. Each building and craft evoke nostalgia, connecting you to centuries of history. Though it is a living community, visiting Zaanse Schans feels like stepping into a bygone era. An introductory tour will showcase Zaanse Schans famous windmills before time to explore this unique site independently. We drive to the coast and the port of IJmuiden, to board the Douglas Mawson. This evening, we enjoy a 'Welcome aboard' dinner, where we meet our Aurora Expeditions team and crew. ...
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