If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam from the UK, your first thought might be to book a flight. But have you considered taking the night ferry instead? The Hull to Rotterdam route offers a surprisingly comfortable and relaxing alternative. Sailing is practical, affordable, and ideal for both leisure and family travellers.
Ferry vs. Flying to Amsterdam
Flying may seem fast, but in reality, it comes with early check-ins, airport queues, strict baggage rules, and the stress of transfers. Taking the ferry, on the other hand, means you board in the evening, sleep in a private cabin, and arrive rested and ready to explore.
Three direct ferry routes between the UK and the Netherlands
Currently, there are three main direct ferry services connecting the UK with the Netherlands:
- Harwich – Hook of Holland (Stena Line)
The crossing takes approximately 6.5 to 7 hours. Day sailings typically depart around 09:00 and arrive around 17:00. Overnight sailings depart around 23:00 and arrive around 08:00 local time. - 2. Newcastle – IJmuiden (Amsterdam) (DFDS)
The crossing duration is approximately 15.5 to 16.5 hours. Departures are daily at around 17:00, with arrival the next morning at approximately 09:45 local time. - 3. Hull – Rotterdam (P&O Ferries)
This crossing takes about 11 to 12 hours. Ferries depart daily from Hull at around 20:30 and arrive between 08:00 and 08:30 local time the following morning.
Of the three (we’ve tried them all), we think the Hull–Rotterdam route is the most pleasant and practical. Here’s why:
- The perfect crossing length for a good night’s rest
The crossing from Hull to Rotterdam takes around 11 hours. This is ideal for winding down, enjoying dinner, and getting a proper night’s sleep in your cabin. You’ll wake up refreshed at a comfortable hour. In comparison, the Harwich–Hook of Holland route is shorter (too short in our opinion), often leaving little time for decent rest.
- Direct coach service to Amsterdam
If you’re travelling without a car, P&O Ferries provides a direct coach service from the terminal at Europoort (Rotterdam) to central Amsterdam. The service is scheduled to coincide with ferry arrival times and offers a straightforward connection for foot passengers.
- Easy drive from Rotterdam to Amsterdam
For those travelling by car, the drive from Rotterdam to Amsterdam takes under an hour via well-maintained motorways. It’s a quick and convenient route, ideal for travellers continuing their journey by road.
- Hull is often more accessible than Newcastle – Amsterdam ferry
Newcastle can be inconveniently located for travellers from the Midlands, South England, Wales, or Ireland. Hull, on the other hand, is easier to reach from cities like Birmingham, Manchester, or Liverpool. It’s also ideal for travellers connecting from Irish ferry routes.
- Great value and Family-Friendly Deals
The Hull–Rotterdam ferry is often more affordable than the Newcastle–IJmuiden route. P&O frequently offers competitive prices, family deals, and flexible tickets, making it a smart choice for travellers on a budget.
Want to know more and see what it’s like on board? Take a look at ferrygogo.co.uk.
You might also want to visit Rotterdam
While Amsterdam might be your main goal, don’t overlook Rotterdam. This modern and vibrant city is known for its bold architecture, excellent food culture, the renowned Maritime Museum, and striking landmarks like the Cube Houses and the Markthal. It’s less crowded than Amsterdam and offers a relaxed and distinctly modern Dutch experience.
In conclusion
The night ferry from Hull to Rotterdam is a comfortable, cost-effective, and practical way to reach Amsterdam. Especially for families or travellers coming from other parts of the UK. With its ideal crossing time, direct onward transport, and easy access from Hull, it’s a route well worth considering.
And once you’re in Rotterdam… why not stay a while? You might just fall in love with it.
