Ferry from London to Amsterdam
Travellers from London can reach Amsterdam using either the Harwich–Hook of Holland route or the Newcastle–IJmuiden route. The Harwich crossing is closer to London, while IJmuiden lies closer to Amsterdam. Both options allow onward travel by road or public transport.
Routes
Our experience
The daytime crossing takes up a large part of the day, but it is often one of the more affordable options available. Budget-friendly cabins are frequently offered, giving you a private space to relax during the journey.
Our experience
In our experience, this is the most enjoyable ferry crossing to the Netherlands. It feels like part of the holiday rather than simply a means of transport and is also popular as a mini-cruise. The only drawback is that it leaves you slightly farther from many Dutch destinations than some of the other available routes.
Ferry services from London to Amsterdam
Travellers from London can reach Amsterdam via Harwich–Hook of Holland or via Newcastle–IJmuiden. Harwich is the closer departure port, while IJmuiden lies closer to Amsterdam.
Map with suggested London – Amsterdam ferry routes
This map shows ferry routes from London to Amsterdam, with crossing times, fares and the ports they sail from. Tap a route for details, tap a port for its sailings, or zoom in for more.
Amsterdam via Hook of Holland or IJmuiden
Travellers from London can reach Amsterdam via either Hook of Holland or IJmuiden. IJmuiden is closer to the city centre, while Hook of Holland offers direct rail connections into the Dutch network.
By car
Travellers from London often choose Harwich because it avoids driving through France and Belgium. For more information, see our guide to driving in the Netherlands.
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By campervan
Many London-based campervan travellers choose Harwich because it avoids driving through France and Belgium before reaching the Netherlands.
Still weighing up your options?
We are a Dutch team and we have made all three direct crossings ourselves, and the photos on this site are our own. Tell us where you are starting and we will point you to the smartest way across.