Noord-Holland is the cradle of Edam and Gouda — and Enkhuizen's historic market once traded both. A private curated tasting of artisan Dutch cheeses, aged jenevers, and regional delicacies in a 17th-century harbour-front setting is the most delicious hour in port.
What to expect
Your host leads you into a characterful 17th-century pakhuis (warehouse) café steps from the inner harbour. The tasting opens with young versus aged Gouda — the butterscotch-crystal crunch of a 2-year wheel is a revelation. Pair each cheese with a specific jenever: young grains spirit with young cheese, deeply malty aged spirit with the old. Your guide narrates the centuries-long Dutch cheese trade and explains why Noord-Holland wheels are still legally distinct from their South Holland counterparts. The session closes with local herring on rye — a true Enkhuizen fisherman's tradition.
Good to know
Sessions can be scheduled to align precisely with your ship's all-aboard time — confirm when booking. The venue is a 5-minute walk from the pier. Book at least one week in advance via the Withlocals platform. Not suitable for guests with severe lactose intolerance or those abstaining from alcohol — alternatives can be arranged on request.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Enkhuizen — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.