Ferry to Amsterdam
Check prices & times »The ferry to Amsterdam is the overnight crossing from Newcastle to IJmuiden, run by DFDS. IJmuiden is the port for Amsterdam, a short transfer from the city, making this the direct ferry route for anyone heading to the Dutch capital.
At around 15 to 16 hours it's a proper overnight sailing — a mini-cruise rather than a quick hop — and it's the natural choice for travellers from northern England and Scotland. This guide covers the crossing, the ships and how to reach Amsterdam at the other end.
Newcastle to Amsterdam at a glance
| Route | Newcastle (North Shields) – Amsterdam (IJmuiden) |
|---|---|
| Operator | DFDS |
| Crossing time | ~15–16 hours, overnight |
| Frequency | Daily |
| Ships | King Seaways, Princess Seaways |
DFDS runs the only direct ferry to Amsterdam, sailing overnight every day from the Port of Tyne to IJmuiden.
The overnight crossing
This is an overnight mini-cruise rather than a simple ferry hop. You board in the evening at North Shields on the Port of Tyne, sleep in a cabin, and arrive at IJmuiden the next morning.
Cabins are included, ranging from economy inside cabins to sea-view and premium Commodore options. It's a relaxed way to travel, arriving rested rather than facing airport queues.
The ships: King Seaways and Princess Seaways
The route is served by the King Seaways and Princess Seaways — cruise-style ships with a genuine range of things to do on the long crossing.
Onboard you'll find restaurants including the Explorer's Kitchen and North Sea Bistro, several bars, a coffee bar, a cinema, a casino, live entertainment and a games area, plus duty-free shopping. It's designed to make the overnight journey part of the trip.
Getting to Amsterdam from IJmuiden
The ferry arrives at IJmuiden, on the coast about 30 minutes from central Amsterdam. DFDS runs a coach transfer from the port to Amsterdam, which you can book with your crossing, and there are also local bus and taxi options.
From Amsterdam you're well placed to reach the rest of the Netherlands by train — but IJmuiden itself is the gateway specifically for the capital.
Travel documents and EES
The Netherlands is in the EU and the Schengen area, so you'll need a valid passport. The EU's Entry/Exit System (EES) applies — on your first crossing since it went live, border officers register your fingerprints and a photo, with later trips quicker.
Allow a little extra time at the border during the rollout, and check your passport's dates before you travel. Learn more about the Entry/Exit System (EES).
Booking and travel tips
A few practical things worth knowing:
- Cabins included: every passenger travels with a cabin on this overnight sailing
- Mini-cruise deals: DFDS often sells short-break packages including two nights onboard and time in Amsterdam
- Book ahead: cabins and pet spaces sell out in summer
- Pets: carried, with pet-friendly cabins and kennels
- Getting to the port: the terminal is at North Shields, with a DFDS bus from Newcastle city centre
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a ferry to Amsterdam?
Yes — DFDS runs an overnight ferry from Newcastle to IJmuiden, the port for Amsterdam, sailing daily.
How long is the ferry to Amsterdam?
Around 15 to 16 hours — an overnight crossing with cabins included.
Where does the Amsterdam ferry actually arrive?
At IJmuiden, on the coast about 30 minutes from central Amsterdam, with a coach transfer available into the city.
Which ships run the Newcastle to Amsterdam route?
The King Seaways and Princess Seaways, cruise-style ships with restaurants, bars, a cinema and entertainment.
Do I need a passport for the ferry to Amsterdam?
Yes — the Netherlands is in the EU and Schengen area, so you need a valid passport, and the EES entry system applies on arrival.