Ferry travel in the Netherlands

Blogs News 26.01.23

Everything you need to know about ferry travel in the Netherlands

Ferries in the Netherlands are mainly used to transport vehicles and passengers across rivers or canals. Most ferries are in the Zeeland region where most routes connect directly to the mainland and are the only way for passengers to travel these distances. 

However, it's almost impossible to get to the Netherlands and not have to take a ferry to get somewhere. At DB Work, we try to prepare our future collaborators for any unique experiences they may come into contact with. So here's everything you need to know about the ferry in the Netherlands. 

Unique experiences on the ferry 

If you want to have a unique ferry experience, you should travel from Amsterdam to Newcastle or vice versa, but on the night run. The experience is an absolutely wonderful one, and as a passenger you will be able to enjoy all the facilities of the ferry. It has its own restaurant, bars where you can enjoy a variety of refreshments. The best recommendation would be to take this ferry to Amsterdam as it also fits excellently with the experience this city can offer you after this trip.

But while we're on the subject of experience, if you don't want to have to wait tens of minutes to purchase a ticket, depending on the type of ferry, there are several ways you can purchase a ticket. Also keep in mind that prices may differ depending on the method and time of year you buy them. 

Ways to buy ferry tickets

Each method can be more or less effective depending on how early you plan your trip. For example, if you end up taking a ferry in a hurry, you can also buy tickets on board. Here's a comprehensive list of available purchase methods and prices. 

  • Online - Ferry tickets can be purchased here, and prices can vary depending on the route, time of year and even the vehicle you're boarding with. Costs can be €5-20 for a person, €15-50 for a car and €5-15 for a bicycle.
  • Via the mobile app - Prices for ferry tickets purchased via the app are identical to those you'll find on the company's website. 
  • On board the ferry - You should be prepared for prices paid on board the ferry to be at least 10-20% higher than normal by other means.
  • At the ferry terminal - If you buy directly from the terminal, prices are not higher but will be the same as you see online.

Most popular ferry routes in the Netherlands

One of the most popular ferry routes in the Netherlands is the Vlissingen-Breskens route, which connects the island of Walcheren to the mainland. This route is operated by the Westerschelde Ferry Company and the crossing takes about 20 minutes. The ferry can carry cars, bicycles and passengers on foot. Ferries on this route are modern and equipped with facilities such as a café, souvenir shop and relaxation areas.

Another popular ferry route in the Netherlands is the Terschelling-Vlieland route. This route connects the islands of Terschelling and Vlieland to the mainland and is operated by the Rederij Doeksen company. The crossing takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes and ferries on this route can carry cars, bicycles and passengers on foot. These ferries are also modern and equipped with facilities such as a café and seating areas.

In addition to these routes, there are several other ferry routes in the Netherlands connecting different parts of the country. For example, the Prinses Margrietroute route connects the island of Schouwen-Duiveland to the mainland, and the Marken Express connects the town of Volendam to the island of Marken.

For more information on public transport in the Netherlands, read our article on the subject.
And if you need a job in the Netherlands, don't hesitate to check our list of vacancies. https://www.dbwork.jobs/en/node/1