Ferry from the UK to the Netherlands
The Netherlands is one of the few mainland European countries that can be reached directly by ferry from the UK. Three passenger routes currently operate: Harwich–Hook of Holland, Hull–Rotterdam and Newcastle–IJmuiden. Depending on where you are travelling from and where you are heading, one route may involve less driving or a shorter onward journey than the others.
It is also possible to travel via Dover and northern France. While this option involves more driving on the continent, it is often one of the fastest and most affordable ways to reach the Netherlands.
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
We found this to be a pleasant and relaxed crossing with a well-timed schedule. It is particularly well suited to travellers with a car, campervan or motorcycle, as onward travel options for foot passengers are somewhat limited from the arrival port.
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 the UK to the Netherlands
There are currently three direct ferry routes between the UK and the Netherlands. These crossings are operated by Stena Line (Harwich–Hook of Holland), P&O Ferries (Hull–Rotterdam) and DFDS (Newcastle–IJmuiden).
Map with suggested the UK – the Netherlands ferry routes
This map shows ferry routes from England to the Netherlands, 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.
Onboard experience
All three direct ferry routes from England to the Netherlands are operated by cruise ferries and can be booked as overnight sailings. Unlike a simple crossing from A to B, these ferries are part of the travel experience itself. On board you’ll find a range of restaurants, bars, shops, children’s entertainment and plenty of places to relax. Two of the three routes even have a cinema.
We’ve personally travelled on all three routes and genuinely enjoyed every crossing. The ships were clean, comfortable and far more enjoyable than we had expected before taking our first overnight ferry. Another advantage is that you arrive in the Netherlands early the following morning, ready to continue your journey. The Harwich to Hook of Holland route is a slight exception, as it can also be booked as a daytime sailing. If you choose the overnight crossing, be prepared for an early wake-up call before arrival.
The experience is very different from taking a ferry from Dover. The Dover routes are primarily designed as transport links: you drive on, grab a coffee, spend around 90 minutes at sea and drive off again. The overnight ferries to the Netherlands feel much more like a mini cruise, and in our experience they are a fun way to start a trip rather than simply a means of getting from one side of the Channel to the other. Looking for the ferry crossings from Dover? You can find them here.
Arrival Ports Across the Netherlands
Travellers heading to the Netherlands can arrive via Hook of Holland, Rotterdam Europoort or IJmuiden. Each arrival port offers different onward connections to Dutch cities and regions.
By car
Driving in the Netherlands is generally straightforward for visitors from the UK. The country’s motorway network connects directly with the main ferry ports, and most destinations can be reached without leaving major roads. For more information, see our guide to driving in the Netherlands.
Compare & book
Pick your route to see live times and prices.
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By campervan
It’s worth comparing prices carefully. We’ve seen some surprisingly expensive fares for campervans on the Newcastle–Amsterdam route, while the daytime sailing between Harwich and Hook of Holland can sometimes offer very attractive deals. In practice, driving a little further to a different departure port can save you a significant amount on the ferry ticket.
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.