Are you looking for a new way of travelling to Europe this summer? For those looking to avoid the stress of long-haul driving or air travel, the ferry between Newcastle and Amsterdam offers a refreshing alternative.

One of the most popular ferry journeys from the UK goes from Newcastle to Amsterdam, travelling 392 nautical miles, and taking about 17 hours but it feels more like a mini cruise than a ferry. 

The DFDS ferry from Newcastle to Amsterdam offers a comfortable, cost-effective alternative to driving, with plenty of amenities on board.

Aboard, you can expect to find restaurants, a buffet, lounges, a cinema, and even a nightclub. 

The price of the ferry crossing from Newcastle to IJmuiden starts from £49 per person, including a four-berth cabin. 

The ferry leaves at 5pm every day from North Shields Ferry Terminal and arrives at IJmuiden, 20 km from Amsterdam, at about 9am the next morning. 

The ships, Princess Seaways and King Seaways, are both spacious and well-equipped, with the King Seaways offering a slightly more luxurious experience.

Once you disembark in IJmuiden, a transfer bus, which you can add to your booking, will take you directly to Amsterdam Centraal Station, arriving around 11am.

Alternatively, a taxi ride to Amsterdam costs around €60 (£50), though pre-booking is recommended as taxis are limited in the area, or you can take the train from Driehius station which is a short distance from the terminal, with trains running to Amsterdam every 30 minutes.

A surge in sightings of whales, dolphins, and porpoises has been reported along the Newcastle-Amsterdam ferry route, adding an exciting twist to this already scenic journey.

The area has become a hotspot for harbour porpoises and white-beaked dolphins, thanks to the unique feeding opportunities provided by the North East coast’s sea beds.

This ferry route offers a relaxed and efficient way to travel from the UK to the Netherlands, with the added bonus of saving time and money compared to driving.

Whether you’re heading to Amsterdam for a quick getaway or continuing on to other European destinations, this ferry crossing ensures a smooth start to your journey.