Jeroen Bosch Boat Tour

April 1 till October 31

You can opt for only the cruise or including a visit to the Jheronimus Art Center (JBAC).

Thrilling ‘Heaven and Hell’ boat tour

The Jeroen Bosch boat tour across the Binnendieze is dedicated to the famous painter, Jheronimus Bosch. This internationally renowned character lived his entire life (1450-1516) in this city. Whist he did enjoy some success as a painter, as is often the case, he only achieved international recognition posthumously.

Devils and demons

The paintings of Jeroen Bosch are instantly recognisable from their distinct style. Innovative, visionary and fantastical, in their day, works by the Dutch painter were cutting edge. Characteristic of his style are the unique dreamscapes, rich in illusions and hallucinations. Demons, half-men/half-beasts and machines all feature in his paintings and illustrations. You’ll get to see a great many of these during your Jeroen Bosch boat tour…

Through the Hellegat

We will depart from the Zuidwal/Oude Dieze jetty and first travel partially underneath the city. From there, the electric boat will transport you through the Hellegat: an exciting, dark and narrow tunnel. If you suffer from claustrophobia, this may not be the tour for you. In the Hellegat, you’ll get to witness a stunning light show with figures from Jeroen Bosch paintings spectacularly displayed on the arches. A truly unique experience!

There are three species of bat that hibernate here in winter. But there’s nothing to fear – they won’t harm you. Under the arches of De Groote Hekel and from inside the boat, you’ll enjoy ‘Heaven and Hell’. An unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Jeroen Bosch imagery

Throughout this tour, lasting approximately 90 minutes, you will encounter imagery from the paintings of Jeroen Bosch. All seem a little surreal to you? Indeed: Jeroen Bosch is often cited as a source of inspiration to the surrealist movement that arose during the 20th century, and of which Salvador Dali was a leading figure. Your DagjeDenBosch.com skipper-guide will explain the various images to you.

Including visit the Jheronimus Bosch Art Center

The Jeroen Bosch Art Centre is closed on April 27, May 6, 11, 12 and 13, June 15 and 30.

At the end of the boat tour, you will disembark at the jetty near to the Jheronimus Bosch Art Center. This unique art center is just a few minutes’ walk from the jetty. The Center shows Jeroen Bosch’s oeuvre, including beautifully framed full-scale reproductions. Take the lift up and view the city from 40 metres high. Or go down to the cellar to see a recreation of Jeroen Bosch’s painting studio and get a feel for life in the Middle Ages… Another Jeroen Bosch Venue is our Bosch House, a nice stop to complete your Jheronimus Bosch Tour in the city.

You can visit the Jheronimus Bosch Art Center at any time, including before the boat tour. Your boat tour ticket also serves as your entry ticket to the Art Center.