amsterdam mini cruise review

Amsterdam mini cruise: what happens and is it worth it? our review

An Amsterdam mini cruise is a really popular way to see the European city from the UK and have a break from the norm without sacrificing too much holiday time from work.

Amsterdam is a wonderful city to spend some time in but are mini cruises a good way to explore? And what happens on a mini cruise? I’m aiming to answer all your questions here!

Before we sailed on a Newcastle to Amsterdam mini cruise we had no idea about what it would be like and we struggled to find any information or reviews about the trip.

We travelled with our kids, who were young teens at the time but many people do the trip with younger kids, as a couple or even solo!

This article probably contains affiliate links. This means that if you buy or book after clicking, I may get a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

Our Top Pick

Best mini cruise to Amsterdam – DFDS

This is the mini cruise that we went on and can recommend. It’s a really great way to see Amsterdam as a short day trip from the UK!

Who runs mini cruises to Amsterdam? There are currently two options if you fancy a mini cruise: DFDS – Sails from Newcastle to Amsterdam (this is the one we did) P&O Ferries – Sails from Hull to Rotterdam

What is a mini cruise?

• A mini cruise is basically a 2 night ‘cruise’ where you sail late on the first day, sleeping overnight on the boat and arriving at your destination in the morning.
• You then get transferred to the city in the morning (Amsterdam in this case) for a day trip before returning to the ship and having a night on the boat returning.
• You arrive back on the third day in the morning.

DFDS do a couple of different mini cruises – you can do one like we did from Newcastle to Amsterdam (and vice versa) or there’s also one that goes from Denmark to Norway (one to try at another date when we’re travelling around Europe again!). They also used to do one from the UK to Norway but I don’t think that one is currently running.

P&O Ferries also do a very similar crossing but it’s from Hull to Rotterdam . They still transfer you to Amsterdam and that’s the destination for the cruise.

How long is an Amsterdam mini cruise?

Typically the cruise lasts 3 days and 2 nights. You spend the first evening on board the ship, arrive at your destination in the morning to spend the day and then sail back on the 2nd evening.

Is a mini cruise expensive?

Cruising as a term tends to conjure up images and feelings of an expensive trip. So is the mini cruise to Amsterdam expensive?

Currently, in 2022, the headline fares are around £40 per person for P&O and £75 per person for DFDS. Your final price is going to depend on what cabin you choose.

There are often deals to be had when booking the mini cruise with DFDS (and I imagine P&O). We managed to find a 2 for 1 offer which made our whole trip with the most basic cabin come in at around £120 for 4 people.

This gave us a super basic cabin (more on that below) for two nights and coach transfers for us all to Amsterdam. You can upgrade to better cabins should you want and if you can I would definitely recommend it.

On board, as probably expected, it’s a little more expensive than your average restaurant or shop. As is also probably expected, we were way too tight to be spending our cash on board so I can’t unfortunately comment on the quality of the restaurants – we took food with us!

I did see that breakfast was around €15 per adult so if you want to eat on board and not bring food with you make sure to budget accordingly.

What’s it like on board?

As I said before, we didn’t eat in the restaurant and we also didn’t partake in any bar entertainment either. (Although I’d say this wasn’t the best idea – as I mention below, it’s a cruise, don’t hole yourself up in your cabin with rubbish food. Go enjoy yourself!)

There was a cinema on board which was about €8 each, so not too dissimilar to on land and we did consider that if the film we wanted was showing on the way back but unfortunately it wasn’t so we didn’t. So if you see a showing you like, watch it, it might not be on the return journey!

The cabin that we had was very basic but did have everything you needed with a small en suite shower and toilet. You also get towels too so no need to bring those either.

The cabins are a little bit small with four people in them, especially when the upper bunks are down, but it wasn’t too bad really. Of course our kids were nearly grown so it was like having 4 adults in there.

One issue that we had with the cabins were that they were incredibly hot. We did wonder at one point whether they maybe didn’t want you too comfy in the cabins and wanted you to be out spending in the bars! It was like that both ways and just spoiled what would have been a quite enjoyable time otherwise.

Tip – make sure you have plenty of drinks with you. It’ll make the hot cabins a bit better.

Can you leave your belongings on the ferry?

One thing we wondered about and were a little worried about was whether we could leave our belongings on the ship while on the day trip – if you’re also worried, don’t be.  

You keep the same cabin on the outward and inward legs so you can leave whatever you need to on board.

(This was correct when we did the trip – might be worth confirming with the ferry company if it’s a concern for you)

How long do you get in Amsterdam on the mini cruise?

Ok, this is quite a big and common question – how long do you get there? It might vary due to the company and any traffic but in general:

You get about 4 and a half hours in the city of Amsterdam on the mini cruise.

What to do in Amsterdam on a mini cruise?

Your time is going to be limited so bear that in mind when choosing what to do. Here are some ideas of places to go that can be done in the time you have. Unfortunately trips to tulip field and windmills like Kinderdijk will have to wait – you won’t have time.

I highly recommend getting tickets in advance if you can – Amsterdam can be busy!

• Canal cruise
• Van Gogh Museum
• Ann Frank Museum or walking tour
• Heineken Experience
• Rijksmuseum
• Madame Tussauds

What happens on the day trip?

You arrive in the Netherlands at about 9am at a place called IJmuiden which is around a 45 minute drive from the centre of Amsterdam.

After waiting for the car passengers to depart it’s the foot passengers turn to go through passport control. It was fine and fairly quick on the Amsterdam side but returning to Newcastle took forever so something to think about if you’re doing the opposite journey.

The coaches are waiting to take you in to the city and once full they head off, dropping you outside a hotel just opposite the train station so perfect for seeing the old town or getting on a canal cruise.

We probably arrived in Amsterdam at around 10.30am – 11am ish which gave us about 4 and a half hours before we got picked up.

It definitely didn’t seem enough to enjoy all there is in Amsterdam, but for us, as it was our first trip to the city it was nice enough to get a feel for it and wander round.

I really wanted to do some of the museums in Amsterdam and it’s really not enough time for doing that and exploring – but perhaps next time we’ll be able to stay longer!  There are some really great kids museums in the Netherlands so definitely one to return for!

We were lucky and had a dry day to wander around – it would have been a different story if it was raining, but if you’re worried about that make sure you have some activities planned to keep you dry.

Is a mini cruise worth it?

So the main question would be, is it worth it overall?

We all really enjoyed our time away and for what we paid I think it was definitely worth it.

My tips to make the most of the mini cruise to Europe

If I was to do the cruise again here would be my tips to make the most of the day:

• if possible, upgrade the cabin so you’re feeling fresh and so that the cruise section of the trip is part of the experience
• I’d enjoy the restaurants on board more and the entertainment – honestly we used to be on such a budget we’d scrimp everywhere which isn’t always advisable. I’d say that while you can do that, since the mini cruise is the bulk of your time try to enjoy it!
• I’d consider getting some skip the line tickets for the museums I was interested in.
• I’d probably book in advance a trip on the canals .
• I’d definitely get a guide book or check in advance what we should do and where we should eat – we weren’t really prepared and so just wandered round soaking up the city. We were lucky the day was dry!

Useful links: DFDS – for Newcastle to Amsterdam cruise P&O Ferries – for Hull to Rotterdam (and then on to Amsterdam) cruise Get Your Guide – book boat trips and skip the line tickets Lonely Planet Amsterdam guide book

Kirsty Bartholomew

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Is it worth getting the ferry from Newcastle to Amsterdam: An honest review

Once upon a time whilst searching the good old internet, we stumbled upon a 2 for 1 deal on a Newcastle to Amsterdam mini cruise. Being the affordable travel lovers that we are, we decided to snap the offer up. And in all honestly we had a lot of fun. We got to sip drinks whilst the sun set over the North Sea and wake up in a completely differently country. In this guide we tell you everything you need to know on getting from Newcastle to Amsterdam by ferry. We also answer the burning question is the Amsterdam mini cruise is worth it? 

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links, so if you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.

Newcastle to Amsterdam by ferry – A Factsheet

How to get from newcastle to amsterdam by ferry, best time of year to get the ferry from newcastle to amsterdam, newcastle to amsterdam by ferry – what you need to know before you go, getting from newcastle to amsterdam by ferry – arriving in newcastle, newcastle to amsterdam by ferry – checking in, newcastle to amsterdam by ferry – the rooms, newcastle to amsterdam by ferry – the amenities, newcastle to amsterdam by ferry- arriving in holland, newcastle to amsterdam by ferry – things to do in amsterdam , amsterdam to newcastle by ferry – getting around amsterdam, amsterdam to newcastle by ferry – back on the boat, newcastle to amsterdam mini cruise tips, staying longer – amsterdam to newcastle, how much does it cost to get from newcastle to amsterdam by ferry, ferry from newcastle to amsterdam – how much money do i need in amsterdam, what to pack for your trip on the ferry from newcastle to amsterdam, tips for getting the ferry from newcastle to amsterdam, is it worth going from newcastle to amsterdam by ferry.

Here is a bit of a factsheet for planning your ferry trip from Newcastle to Amsterdam.

Amsterdam Factsheet

Country: The Netherlands

Language Spoken: Dutch – but you can get by with just English as enough people speak this

Currency : Euros

Known For : Canals, tulips, architecture

Here are some interesting things that you might want to know about Amsterdam. For starters, when we visited we discovered that the city is actually sinking. It lies below sea level, but is being held up by the canal system and wooden poles that support it.

Amsterdam also has more bikes than people. Which honestly I’m not surprised about after visiting. Seriously, getting run over by car isn’t what scares me in Amsterdam it’s the bikes. You just need to be aware and watch out in the cycle lanes.

And if you are wondering why some of the buildings are tall but really narrow, that is because in the 17th Century you actually had to pay based on the width of your house.

Wondering if Amsterdam is worth visiting ? Here is a helpful guide.

If you are wondering how to get from Newcastle to Amsterdam by ferry then you will need to book through DFDS . They run ferry services between the two cities daily and year round. The ferry crossing takes around 16 hours, departing Newcastle around 5pm and arriving in Amsterdam the next morning. 

If you are wondering when the best time of year to get the ferry from Newcastle to Amsterdam is we have you covered.

Personally, we think summer is the best time when it comes to weather. The days are brighter for longer, which is nice when you are spending an evening on a boat. You can also sit out on the top deck and enjoy the incredible sea views.

Of course summer is also peak time for people looking to get the ferry from Newcastle to Amsterdam. This means prices are way more expensive, and deals are harder to come by. Summer in Amsterdam also means an influx of tourists which is a bit frustrating when you only have a day in the city. You will find yourself queuing up quite a lot.

Winter is an ok time to get the ferry from Newcastle to Amsterdam. The Christmas markets are on in December which is nice, and you can ice skate on the canals if it is cold enough.

The downside though is that the weather will be cold, and it is likely it will be rainy. This can be frustrating when you have such a short time in Amsterdam.

We think the best time to do the cruise is in Spring. May is probably most ideal, as it is just before busy season, but the weather is mild. There are far less tourists in Amsterdam and you can find those Newcastle to Amsterdam ferry 2 for 1 deals.

• DFDS do some really good deals for their Newcastle to Amsterdam mini cruise, so do check the website to bag yourself a bargain
• If you want to spend more than 1 day in Amsterdam you can book your return ticket for a few days later
• You need to pay for your bus transfer from the ferry terminal to Amsterdam/Newcastle in advance 
• It takes about 30-40 minutes to get from the ferry terminal to Amsterdam itself
• You can choose various options for your cabin type from single bunk beds, to a double bed. You also need to pay more for a window in your room as the standard option doesn’t include this. 

Once you have booked your Newcastle to Amsterdam mini cruise you are going to want to know the best what to get to Newcastle. The fastest most hassle free option is to drive. There is a car park right near the ferry terminal although be aware that charges do apply. The cost isn’t too bad considering you are leaving your car for a couple of nights and on average you will probably pay around £24 for this. 

If you don’t have a car the quickest way to get to Newcastle is on the train. DFDS organise buses that take you directly from the train station to the cruise terminal. They cost around £4.00 per person each way. Or if you are like us and you get to Newcastle super early you can get the metro to Percy Main station and walk over to the ferry terminal.

Check in for our Newcastle to Amsterdam mini cruise was surprisingly easy and stress free. You can pre-purchase your meals during check in and they are slightly cheaper than what you would pay on board. You also need to make sure that you arrive at least 45 minutes before sailing time. We were super early and within 20 minutes of checking in we were settling into our cabin.

So I’m not going to sugar coat it. The rooms are small. We were in the economy section so we had a bunk bed and no window. This was fine as we were expecting this. It was such a cheap trip and for us the room was really just for sleeping. The only issue we had was that the shower was directly over the toilet in the ensuite bathroom. Still when it is only 2 nights you don’t mind as much. Plus, when you have views of the North Sea to look at who needs to spend time in a room anyway? Of course, you can upgrade to bigger rooms, and rooms with windows if you are so inclined.

The different room types you can book when traveling from Newcastle to Amsterdam by ferry are as follows:

Economy Cabins

 As mentioned we booked the economy room with no window. This was fine for us because it was only 2 nights, and when you have a whole ship at your disposal how much time do you want to spend inside your room? Essentially you get a room with bunk beds, and an ensuite bathroom. Space is limited, but again it’s all part of the experience.

Sea View Cabins

Sea View Cabins are similar to the economy cabins but obviously the big difference is they have a window. In honesty if we ever book again we will probably go with the sea view cabin because our cabin did feel a little claustrophobic.

Double Bed Cabins

If you are travelling as a couple it is probably worth splashing out for a double bed cabin. Again you have the choice of inside cabins (no window) and outside cabins (with a window). The double rooms are slightly more expensive than your economy and sea view cabins with bunk beds.

The ships are also kitted out with accessible and pet friendly rooms as well to meet your individual needs.

There is a lot to do on the ship. There are several bars and restaurants, as well as a cinema. For us it was nice to sit down and enjoy a nice dinner at one of the restaurants. They are a little bit pricey so keep that in mind as you might want to bring your own snacks on board instead.

We loved sipping cocktails on the top deck and watching the sun set over the North Sea. This was certainly a trip highlight for us. We also spent a bit of time in a few of the ship’s bars. They had live music playing, and after a few drunk sing-alongs we decided to go to bed.

In terms of the restaurants when you travel from Newcastle to Amsterdam by ferry you can expect the following:

North Sea Bistro

This includes 2 or 3 course meals including things like steak or fish and vegetables. It’s basically your more high end dining option on board.

Explorers Kitchen

The Explorers Kitchen provide an international buffet where you can help yourself to Mediterranean, Asian, and Italian food – plus much more.  Prices start at £22 and the buffet comes highly recommended.

Coffee Crew Café

If you don’t want a bit feast on board, or are craving a morning coffee head to Coffee Crew Café serving Starbucks drinks, and small bites to eat.

You also have the option to partake in some Duty Free Shopping on board, or enjoy some drinks in one of the onboard bars.

The boat arrives in the morning at the port of Ijmuiden and I should mention that it takes a 40 minute bus ride to get into Amsterdam. Our advice would be to try and get on one of the first coaches if you can as this gives you a bit of extra time in Amsterdam. We arrived in the city at around 11am and we had about 5 hours to spend here before making our way back to the ship.

Obviously 5 hours is nothing in a city as incredible as Amsterdam. But if there is something you really want to do we would recommend booking tickets in advance. The bus drops you off right in the centre of the city. Just make sure you look out for bikes as you disembark the coach.  Here are some of our suggestions on how to pass the time.

Do a canal cruise

Considering Amsterdam is famous for its canals, a great way to see the city is from the water. We really do recommend going on a cruise to orient yourself with the city. Our tour lasted around an hour and we got to see the incredible architecture and learn all about the history of the city and its canals. It is worth booking your cruise online in advance so that you don’t have to waste time lining up for tickets when you arrive.

Fill up on fries and coffee

We didn’t get up early enough to have breakfast on the boat, so we were starving. After the cruise we made our way to a cafe and sat by the canal to eat. If you get the chance to try them, Dutch Fries with mayonnaise are amazing. It is also really nice (weather permitting) to sit by the canal sipping cups of coffee. After all you want to soak in as much of the atmosphere as possible.

Walk around the canals

We spent a lot of time exploring the city on foot. We loved the beautiful canals and discovering beautiful streets. It’s such a picturesque place and it’s just really enjoyable walking around getting lost in the beauty of the city.

Visit the Floating Flower Market

So the Amsterdam Flower Market is the only floating Flower Market in the world. The shops are located inside a row of barges, and is a homage to the days when flowers arrived here by boat from the countryside.

It is probably one of the most colourful places in the city and is a real visual feast. Apart from flowers you can also purchase seeds and gardening tools. It is also a great place to get some souvenirs like fridge magnets and postcards.

Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum or the National Museum of the Netherlands is a great place to visit to learn all about the arts and history of the country. Now this will probably take the full 5 hours in Amsterdam so maybe best saved for longer trips. But if you are super keen then you can book your tickets here in advance .

Anne Frank House

This is probably one of the most well-known museums in Amsterdam. It’s a very sombre reminder of the horrors inflicted during WW2, and if you do get a chance to visit then do. You will learn all about Anne and her family, and you can tour the place they called home for 2 years whilst hiding from the Nazi’s.

Explore the edgier side of the city

On our way back to the bus we decided to have a quick walk through the back streets of the city and have a look at the coffeeshops. You hear so much about them and it was so strange walking past and seeing what they were like in person.

We actually found out that there are some strict rules when it comes to these coffeeshops, and the sale of marijuana is heavily regulated in the city. For us though, it was fascinating walking around an area that is so different to anything we would see at home. Coffeeshops are not our thing so instead we indulged in a pint of Dutch beer at a bar before heading back to the ship.

Explore the Red Light District

Admittedly the Red Light District in Amsterdam isn’t going to be for everyone. But walking through is certainly an eye opening experience to say the least. It’s not as graphic or dangerous as you might think. You will see red-lit windows, sex shops, and strip clubs in the area, which might be out there for some but it’s a testament to the open attitude towards sex the Dutch hold. Also it is the oldest part of the city, and one of the oldest trades, so it is worth a visit.

And whilst we are discussing the openness towards sex, you can also visit the Amsterdam sexmuseum , if you dare.

If you are getting the ferry from Amsterdam to Newcastle, then realistically with your day in Amsterdam you probably won’t really need to rely on public transport. The best thing to do is walk around and explore the city on foot.

If you do happen to use public transport though the main options are using the bus, tram, or metro. You are probably best off buying a day ticket for about €8.50. The best thing to do is download the GVB travel app onto your phone and purchase your tickets on here.

When we got back on the boat it gave us time to reflect upon our time in Amsterdam. The cruise was fantastic and definitely worth doing. Tickets can be quite cheap and it is a great idea for a mini break. That being said, we definitely want to go back to Amsterdam and spend a lot more time there. There are a lot of museums we want to see, as well as the Anne Frank house. And it would be awesome having a night out in the city. Fingers crossed we will be back soon and we will have to add it to our never ending list of places we want to go back to!

• Book your dining in advance if you want to save some money 
• Alternatively eat before you get on the boat and have breakfast once you get to Amsterdam to save money on food
• Try to avoid the ferry on weekends, it sort of becomes a bit of a booze cruise on Friday and Saturday night
• Don’t fill up on Space Cakes and get on the boat!

Like we mentioned previously, 5 hours in Amsterdam will not be enough time to see everything the city has to offer. You do have the option to stay longer in Amsterdam. You can either book a one way cruise from Newcastle to Amsterdam, and then a separate return from Amsterdam to Newcastle. Or you can select a longer amount of time in Amsterdam when booking your trip.

Just be mindful that it will be more expensive than the usual mini cruise, but despite this it is something we recommend. You can take all the usual stress out of travelling through the airport out of the equation, and sail to Amsterdam in style. You also don’t have to worry about getting back to the boat within the 5 hours, and can really soak up the Dutch culture.

Where to stay when travelling from Amsterdam to Newcastle by ferry

If you decide to stay a little bit longer in Amsterdam here is a bit of a guide to the best areas to stay in the city.

For first time visitors, we recommend staying in the Old Centre. This will mean you are close to the tourist attractions, and all the hustle and bustle. Admittedly accommodation can be a bit expensive here, due to the prime location, so make sure you book well in advance to secure the best deal.

If you are looking for budget accommodation we recommend stying in Oud-Zuid. It’s also very close to the museums, and the Heineken Experience.

Our favourite part of Amsterdam has to be the Canal Belt. It’s probably the most romantic part of the city, with all those charming cafes, and gorgeous canals. It’s centrally located, and great for those on a short trip to the city.

You might be wondering how much it costs to get from Newcastle to Amsterdam by ferry. Truth be told this will be dependent on a number of things such as the time of year you book, if you are staying longer in Amsterdam, and whether you plan to eat on the boat. As a rough idea here are some numbers:

Return trip from Newcastle to Amsterdam: £220 for 2 (unless you can get a 2 for 1 deal which do pop up sometimes).

Food on board: £60 for 2

Spending money in Amsterdam: €30 -€100 depending on what attractions you want to see.

Amsterdam is a pretty expensive city to visit. Maybe not in the same realms as  London  or  Oslo , but it’s definitely not super cheap.

We recommend budgeting about €80 per person for you day in Amsterdam. This will include things like attractions, food, drink, and transport.

If you aren’t planning on eating at expensive restaurants, or spending the day sipping cocktails you can definitely do things a lot cheaper. Plus with the limited time you will probably not be able to spend that much money on attractions and the like.

Here are some of the things we recommend packing for your Newcastle to Amsterdam ferry trip.

• Comfortable walking shoes – especially for walking around Amsterdam
• A warm jacket – especially useful for the boat as it can get windy and cold if you are standing outside
• Passport and travel documents
• Layered clothes for a variety of weather as this can be unpredictable in Amsterdam (and Newcastle for that matter)
• Rain/ waterproof items.

Here are some final tips for getting the ferry from Newcastle to Amsterdam.

• Pack a few snacks as again these will be cheaper than buying them onboard.
• Check Groupon and other booking sites for any 2 for 1 deals on your ferry from Newcastle to Amsterdam.
• Try and get to the front of the queue and be one of the first off the boat to give yourself more time in Amsterdam.
• Be careful when booking tours in advance especially if these include timed starts as it is hard to predict when you will be in Amsterdam.
• Don’t bring drugs onto the boat!
• Carry your ID with you at all times in Amsterdam, as you will need to show it to police if you are stopped.
• Watch out for bikes in Amsterdam!

For us the Newcastle to Amsterdam mini cruise was absolutely worth it. The cruise itself was really enjoyable and relaxing. A big part of the holiday was enjoying our time on the boat and watching the sunset. Despite the tickets being cheap the food and drink onboard does get a bit pricey so keep that in mind when weighing up your costs. That being said if you are wanting to travel a little differently than we recommend going from Newcastle to Amsterdam by ferry. 

If you are trying to decide between London or Amsterdam here is a helpful guide.

For more European inspiration have a look at these articles:

Visiting Prague, Vienna and Budapest

Guide to visiting Copenhagen

Dubrovnik Guide

Day trip to Mostar

Wanderlust and Life is a blog for those that love to travel.

Similar Posts

15 Reasons Hamburg Should Be Your Next German City Break

We have recently visited Hamburg for the second time this year, and we have to say each time we visit, we are even more impressed. A lot of people mention Berlin or Munich when planning a German city break, but we are here to tell you that you should definitely not overlook Hamburg! Here are…

A 3 day Barcelona itinerary to help you plan the perfect trip

Barcelona is a beautiful seaside city located in the capital of Spain’s Catalonia region. If you are looking for sunshine, cheap wine, amazing architecture, and mouth watering tapas then you must visit Barcelona. We have compiled a 3 day Barcelona itinerary to help you plan your 3 perfect days in the city. ContentsBarcelona Quick FactsIs…

How to plan the perfect 4 day Santorini itinerary – everything you need to know

Santorini has always been a dream destination of mine, so when Jet2.com reached out and offered us the chance to explore this magical island we jumped at the chance. Let’s face it, Santorini has to be one of the most picturesque places in the world. With its white buildings on the edge of the rugged…

Paris vs Berlin: which city is better for my next break

Planning a trip to Europe and want to know if Paris or Berlin is the better option? In this guide we go through everything you need to know in the battle of Paris vs Berlin, including best things to see, do, eat, and much more. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, so if you use these…

Ireland in March: Everything you need to know about visiting

Are you planning a trip to Ireland in March and want to know all the tip tips? Well this article is for you. We go through absolutely everything you need to know before visiting like, choosing accommodation, what to pack, what to see, and so much more. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, so if you…

Is Belfast worth visiting? Is Belfast safe? And everything else you need to know before you go

Are you planning a trip to Ireland and wondering is Belfast worth visiting? In this guide we go through all the important questions like, is Belfast safe, is Belfast expensive, and what is there to do in Belfast to help you decide if you should visit the Northern Irish capital. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links,…

This sounds like a fun trip, Lizzie! I’m keen to visit the floating flower market when I travel to Amsterdam next spring.

It really was. The floating flower market is beautiful and I bet it will be even more amazing in Spring.

I found this so interesting! Going by boat to Amsterdam is never something I’ve considered but the ship actually sounds really nice, and the views from it are stunning! Glad you had a good time 🙂 I also have the same blog layout as you, hahaha.

We had never thought about it either until we found the deal. It was a lot of fun but next time I definitely want to stay longer. As for the blog layout I guess great blogs think alike!

This is so cool!! I looked at doing this YEARS ago when those deals kept coming up, but Newcastle wasn’t ideal for us to get to – now if we move to Edinburgh, it’ll be easy! Hope they still do the deals. 🙂 You got loads done in Amsterdam too! Fab itinerary.

I do keep seeing the deals so hopefully something will come up soon!

Comments are closed.

• Staycations
• Work With Me
• Get in touch

Cruises , Europe , Weekends

Amsterdam in a weekend – the mini cruise from hull to amsterdam.

Visiting Amsterdam in a weekend – is the mini cruise worth it?

Can you really squeeze a trip to Amsterdam into just a weekend? With a mini cruise, you might just find you can! When it comes to a last minute weekend break my main priorities are finding something cheap, something that doesn’t use up much (if any) annual leave time, and an exciting destination that’s easy to explore on foot.

I usually start by looking at the cheapest flights on SkyScanner , but I know a few people who have done the overnight ferry trip to Amsterdam from Hull. So, on their recommendation I thought I would give that a go instead!

Weekends and Away uses affiliate links to products. I may receive a small commission for purchases made through these links, however there is no extra charge to you.

What is the Dutch Dash?

Informally referred to as the “Dutch Dash” by the folks over in Hull (aka ‘ull), this quick weekend trip over to Amsterdam is one of a few mini cruise options offered by P&O Ferries from the Hull ferry port.

So how does a weekend mini cruise trip to Amsterdam work?

Mini cruise trips are great if you don’t want to waste time waiting around at the airport, booking hotels , transfers and all the usual travel stresses. Instead you board the ship a couple of hours before departing on Friday evening and spend the night in your cabin. Of course, I would recommend venturing out and enjoying the on-board bars and facilities too.

The next morning the ship arrives at Europort in The Netherlands. This is where you disembark the ferry and get taken by coach to the centre of Amsterdam. The day is then yours to spend as you please. After a full day of sightseeing, eating, drinking and whatever else you may get up to in the Dutch capital, head back to the coach pick up point. There will be a designated time for you to come back here, so be sure to pin the pickup spot on Google maps and set an alarm!. The coach will then return to the ship, where you can unwind in your cabin and arrive back in Hull the next morning. Simple!

What’s the cabin like on a mini cruise?

I won’t sugarcoat it, the standard cabin on the Hull to Amsterdam mini cruise ( I travelled on the Pride of Hull ) is pretty basic! If you are looking for something a little more luxurious than bunk beds and a small shower room, you may want to consider an upgrade. For the sake of a couple of nights, however, I think your money could be better spent elsewhere! Aside from the cabin being a little cramped everything was clean and comfortable.

What you need to know before you go on a mini cruise

There are a few things worth noting before you travel on your mini cruise to avoid getting caught out like I was. Firstly, there was only one plug socket in our cabin and it was a European fitting. Make sure to pack a travel adapter and maybe an extension lead to avoid running out of battery before you even get to Amsterdam. I really like this USB travel adaptor , as most of my devised have USB charge and it nice and compact to pack. I don’t know about you but I can barely function without Google Maps, so this was a big deal for me!

Secondly, there isn’t a kettle in the cabin either (true British problems right there!). If you like a tea or coffee in the morning and don’t want to pay the on-board prices, pack a travel kettle .

Finally, you aren’t allowed to bring alcohol on board. Save yourself the heartbreak of having it taken away from you at the ferry terminal and leave it at home! There are a few bars on board anyway and the drinks are quite reasonably priced.

How to spend a weekend in Amsterdam

If you haven’t already been to Amsterdam, it’s likely you’ve at least heard about of seen the dreamy photos of this quirky, canal filled city. Home to history, culture, art, food and fashion, there is something here for everyone to enjoy besides the infamous cafes of course.

Planning your day in Amsterdam

As you only get to spend one day in the city on a mini cruise, it’s best to have an idea of what you want to see beforehand. You’ll especially want to have this figured out if this is your first visit.

Amsterdam is home to some world-class museums and art galleries including the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum as well as historically significant sights like the Anne Frank House . If you plan to visit any of these, book your tickets in advance online . These museums are very popular and it would be a waste spending a large chunk of your day in a queue.

If you are planning on a more relaxed day of strolling along the canals and trying out the local food (there is plenty to try), you can be much more flexible with your time.

Here are a few more activities you can enjoy in Amsterdam on your mini cruise getaway:

Outside the Amsterdam tourist hotspots

As I visited the museums the last time I was in Amsterdam a couple of years ago, I wanted to spend this trip exploring the city at a much more relaxed pace. Our trip started with food (obviously) before heading over to one of the markets. I really enjoyed fawning over at pretty pieces of art and hand crafted jewellery. The brightly coloured fruit, vegetables, flowers and produce are a photographers dream too.

Explore the Amsterdam waterways with a canal cruise

After a morning of strolling we decided to do one of the many canal boat tours of the city. Lovers offer 1 hour tours leaving several times a day, for €13 it’s a great way to get introduced to the city and some of its history as you cruise through the many bridges and waterways.

If you find yourself hungry after a few hours of walking, or if you’ve got a sweet tooth, don’t pass up on an opportunity to visit The Pancake Bakery . This place has pancakes on a scale beyond your imagination, from boozy cherry toppings to pancakes themed on different nations, you will definitely leave happier and a few kilos heavier!

So, is a weekend mini cruise to Amsterdam worth it?

Whilst I had a great time on my mini weekend cruise to Amsterdam, there are definitely some pros and cons to consider before booking.

Pros of a mini cruise

The mini cruise is really good value, with travel, accommodation and transfers into Amsterdam for as little as £80 per person on selected dates.

You can ditch the cabin sized bag (although I do love my Aerolite) and pack as many clothes as you want, although I doubt you would need much for this short break!

Travel overnight in the comfort of a bed, instead of cramped on an economy flight.

Avoid expensive city centre accommodation prices.

This is a great way to try our cruising before booking a longer trip if you’re not sure if you’ll like it.

Cons of a mini cruise

You only get one day in Amsterdam, so your sightseeing time is limited. P&O Cruises do offer 3 or 4 day mini breaks too though that would give you more time to explore.

The entertainment on board the mini cruise probably won’t be to everyone’s taste, but there are other options such as the on-board cinema, if singing and dancing aren’t your thing.

Any delays on the outbound leg of your journey or during disembarkation could have a knock on effect, leaving you with even fewer precious hours to explore the city.

If you aren’t travelling from a reasonable distance from Hull you will need to factor in extra travel time to and from the terminal, as well as parking. In some cases your local airport may be the cheaper and less stressful option.

A weekend in Amsterdam by mini cruise - The verdict

For a cheap and cheerful getaway, I would definitely recommend a weekend in Amsterdam via mini cruise. Whilst it might not be the best option for visiting a new destination, it’s a great way to enjoy an old favourite and takes the hard work out of planning and travelling.

You can find out more about P&O mini cruises and book here.

Have you been on a weekend cruise break before? Did you enjoy it? Let me know in the comments!

Interested in longer cruise trips?

Read about my trip to the Caribbean on Harmony of the Seas.

Royal Caribbean cruise – on board Harmony of the Seas

Rather spend longer in amsterdam find accommodation here:, pin this post.

More from my travels

The Alan – The stylish hotel in Manchester with a restaurant worth staying for

Guide to Camden: Top things to see and do on a budget

Europe Staycations UK Weekends

Vanbrugh House Hotel review – Boutique rooms and boating in Oxford

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Kingston-upon-Hull
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Amsterdam Mini Cruise - P&O North Sea Ferries - Hull to Rotterdam

• Europe    
• United Kingdom (UK)    
• England    
• Yorkshire    
• East Riding of Yorkshire    
• Kingston-upon-Hull    
• Kingston-upon-Hull - Things to Do    
• P&O North Sea Ferries - Hull to Rotterdam

This was my first time on a ship and i wasnt disappointed from the minute we arrived the staff were... read more

We booked a return trip and was very happy with the service. We went with our 21 month old toddler... read more

Amsterdam Mini Cruise

We went on the P&O Ferries Mini-Cruise from Hull-Amsterdam. We arrived at the Hull Terminal in time for check-in. Parking is £8 every 24 hours, so it cost me £16. I parked outside the front of the multi-storey which was a little daunting leaving my car there but the multi-storey was full. however, there were no problems. We checked in fine and were on the ship by 4:15. We visited the onboard facilities. and there was some good things on-board but expensive. The children's area on the ship is overhyped as there's isn't much at all for young children. Our cabin was a 4-berth outside cabin which was nice but small and not much room for luggage. the air-con was quite temperamental and was blowing out hot air despite being on the cold setting. The games arcade is ok but very limited on variety and is mainly racing games. would have liked to see more on offer here. In the morning we arrived at Europort and boarded a coach to Amsterdam for the day. The journey to Amsterdam took about 1hour 30 mins and drops off/picks-up from the lover's cruises near Central Station. Little advice for Amsterdam... keep your eyes open.. otherwise, you're bound to get hit by a cyclist! they are everywhere and don't care about anything. At around 4:30 we boarded the coach back to Europport at arrived just after 6:15pm local time. The check-in process at Europort is a bit of a 'free for all really, no real queueing system and it's a case of whoever gets to the front first. We bought sandwiches from the onboard cafe which were £3.80 each. Myself and my 5 year old went to the sundeck to watch the ship leave to return to Hull. one annoying thing is the announcements play everywhere. When the ship left the first night, an announcement played in 3 different languages in the room whilst my son was asleep. we know it has to be done but would help to have been done earlier. Overall though really good experience and would do it again

This was our second cruise due to the first one being badly effected by the "beast from the east"!! We boarded 2 hours before we departed and booked a meal in the on board restaurant we was good considering your on board a ferrie at the end of the day. The entertainment wasn't great but it was valentine's Day so they did a Mr and Mrs quiz! On board the ferrie there are couple of small shops 2 cinemas casino and arcade enough to keep you going for the 2 nights. The only bad thing we found was the buses to and from Amsterdam not enough information is given to you and as other people said it takes longer to get back the the ferrie due to the volume of traffic on a Friday night. Top tip booked outside cabin and upgrade cabin else you will get bunk beds and eat in the kitchen it's all you can eat with plenty of choice for breakfast and evening meals I would recommend the mini cruise to others to try

My first time travelling on the Pride of Rotterdam and it was a great first experience all on board staff were extremely friendly especially Antonio who was on the bar in the Show Lounge on our way to Rotterdam. We were fast through at Hull from arriving to the port to getting on the ship my only downside was checking in at Rotterdam Europort. People were queuing waiting for there turn to be checked in but then disrespectful inpatient people were just pushing in through the side of the door as they were no orderly queues or staff keeping people in order. However apart from that it was an all round great trip and would definitely travel on the Pride of Rotterdam again. Entertainment both on the way there and on the way back was fab and drink prices were very reasonable.

Good Afternooon, thank you very much for your lovely review and kind comments about our on-board staff. I will ensure that your message is forwarded so that Antonio is duly recognised for his wonderful customer service. I am sorry to hear about your experience of people queueing impatiently and hope it didn't detract too much from your positive experience of travelling with us and that we will have the opportunity to welcome you on-board again. *Cat

We went on our first ever mini cruise to Amsterdam from the 20th-22nd February 2019. Check in when we arrived was smooth and fast and we were quickly on board and in our cabin. We upgraded to a twin outside view cabin. Cabin was as expected small but did its job perfectly. The onboard entertainment and staff were wonderful & the views from the sky lounge were amazing. We slept well and arrived early in the morning at Rotterdam. Getting off the ship and through the border control was again smooth and fast. We were straight on the coach to Amsterdam which took about 90 mins. We arrived and explored the beautiful city of Amsterdam - there is so much to do! Only downside was the coach journey back due to the traffic the journey went from 90 mins to 3 hours almost and the coach driver was a bit of a nutter! But we arrived back safely and again check on was easy and smooth. Again, lovely travel. We didn’t try the food on board due to the price. However, have been recommended it and will be trying it next time! All in all a amazing trip and experience and for the price you really can’t fault it! Will be coming back!

Good afternoon and thanks for your review - the incident with traffic delay sounds awful and unfortunately beyond our control but nonetheless I am really glad that you had a good trip with us and hope that we will be welcoming you again in the near future. *Cat

Myself and husband went on this mini cruise for a mini moon, it was amazing start to end, the ferry itself it beautiful inside and out, there was always something to do- we don’t drink so didn’t spend a lot of time in the bar or anything but did spend time in Starbucks! The food we did have was beautiful, the cabins are small but you only really need them to sleep in which was fine, it was smooth ride there and back, and the wake up call was helpful, the coach transfer was fine on the way into Amsterdam but on the way back we got stuck in traffic for three hours and our coach hit another moving vehicle, which was scary but not even an apology from the driving. Despite that hick up everything was lovely. We will definitely be visiting again.. :)

Many thanks for your wonderful review. Please accept our sincere apologies about the incident concerning the coach and the traffic delays. We glad you travelled with us and very much hope that you will do so again in the future. *Cat

Rushed in the morning by an annoying man constantly knocking on the doors asking us to wake up. Allot of waiting In queues. Boarding on and off was long and not managed by staff or in the immigration check area. You’ll find a mix of levels of people on this cheap cruise just prepare for the low life’s who cannot make conversation without starting with the ‘f’ word. If your on the pride of Rotterdam going to Spain then you’ll have the Thai staff who are very hospitable and softly spoken. The other boats after the Europeans who are abrupt and sometimes condisending. This recent cruise had allot of kids just loose so if your a couple be prepared to have other people’s brat kicking your chair or running around you when your sitting kicking back at the bar area or in the chilled out sunset lounge. A very cheap trip and a cheap low level experience.

Good Morning and sorry that your trip was marred by other's behaviour on-board. You haven't mentioned whether you brought the other passenger's behaviour to the attention of our crew on-board but we would always advise doing so if you are not happy while travelling. Please contact [email protected] if you would like to discuss this further and we hope to have the pleasure of you travelling with us again. *Cat

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

How To Cruise | Tips For First-Time Cruisers

Tips For First-Time Cruisers

P&O Mini Cruise – Hull to Amsterdam – An Independent Customer Review

9th April 2019 By David at HowToCruise 1 Comment

In March 2019, we drove across the M62 to Hull to join the P&O mini cruise to Amsterdam.

It was a break my wife and I were looking forward to.

• See Amsterdam
• Get away from it all for a couple of days
• Enjoy the experience

So how did it go? Did the mini-cruise meet expectations? Was it cheap or expensive?

Here’s my independent cruise review of our experience…

Parking at the Hull P&O Terminal

So let’s be practical. What about parking? 

It’s a pay and display car park, right by the P&O terminal – which is very handy. The staff advised us to leave our car in the multi-storey car park. They told us that this particular car park is locked overnight, whereas the outside tarmac car park isn’t.

Time to pay for the parking. It’s £8 per day – so we came prepared with 16 pound-coins. But no worries if you turn up with no change – the machine will take cards too.

Check-in was pretty straight-forward, and soon we were heading up the ramp with the other passengers to embark the “Pride of Hull”.

An Inside Cabin on The Pride of Hull

So what’s the cabin like?

At check-in, they’d given us a paper/card type of e-key, so we went to take a look and drop off our luggage.

Our package included a basic inside cabin with 2 bunk beds. The top bunk swings down.

There’s no need to upgrade. This cabin had all the comforts. And a nice, clean bathroom with a shower.

Time to explore the rest of the ship…

Exploring The Pride of Hull Ship

The Pride of Hull contains all the usual things you’d expect on a cruise ship, such as a shop, restaurants, a wine bar and pub with entertainment.

Even a Starbucks coffee shop.

When we boarded, it was still very early, so we hadn’t set sail and most things were still closed.

On the top deck, the Skylounge Bar has the benefit of a nice view – and smart tables and chairs. This bar could almost be mistaken for a cruise ship.

In the evening, this Skylounge Bar hosts the more laid-back sort of entertainment. We discovered the price of a bottle of wine was rather more expensive than in the wine bar downstairs.

But for now… it was time to buy a cuppa before heading off to book a table in the restaurant.

The Restaurants on the Pride of Hull

For our evening meal, we chose the Brasserie.

The food was delicious and the service great.

But we could have chosen what they call “The Kitchen”, where, for a set price, you can eat as much as you want.

The Wine Bar

In the wine bar, it cost us £14 for a bottle of house wine.

As wine wine-bar prices go, that’s not bad – especially for a captive audience. Upstairs in the Skylounge bar, that would have cost us about £18.

Off to Amsterdam

The next day, at 0900 we disembarked, went through the customs checks and hopped onto one of the coaches waiting outside the terminal.

Our coach was clearly labelled “Amsterdam”.

With the heavy traffic, the ride into Amsterdam took around 90 minutes. And as we left the bus, the driver told us the times of the various buses going back.

It was easy to spot the buses with the “P&O” label on the front.

So what’s Amsterdam like?

What to do in Amsterdam

The rain put a bit of a dampener on it for us. But we couldn’t let that spoil our day.

So first things first, we sought out the herring seller and bought a rollmop. That was the first thing ticked off the to-do list.

Bikes and boats are everywhere. Not surprising as it’s flat and full of canals.

Want a museum?

Well, the cheese museum is great. Lots of samples of delicious Dutch cheeses to savour, too.

And then there’s the tulip museum.

And… a cow museum.

And a museum celebrating the cause of the strange smell you’ll discover as you walk Amsterdam’s streets. Yes, a cannabis museum.

If you want to visit Anne Frank’s house, you’d better book your ticket online, months in advance. We didn’t, so all we got was a picture at the front door – as did lots of other people.

There are many other things to see, such as the Westerkirk.

And quaint places to shop.

You can see all these on the video we made .

And finally, we took a last look at the canals, bikes and boats, before heading back to the coach for the journey back to the ship.

Going Back from Amsterdam

Back at the port, we got off the coach, through customs again, up the escalators, along the ramp, and got ready for another evening’s entertainment.

The wine bar was popular.

Near to the source of the entertainment, the volume of the music was quite loud. But there are a few corners where you can hold a conversation yet still hear the music.

There’s also a “quiet room” on board if music isn’t your thing.

Upstairs in the Skylounge Bar, there was more laid-back entertainment with a singer with an acoustic guitar. However, that was amplified loud, too, and there were no corners to sit and chat.

Eventually, we hit the sack and awoke in time for breakfast, before docking, disembarking, queuing through customs, and being reunited with our car.

Now, all we had to do was try to remember which storey we’d parked on.

Our Video Review of the P&O Mini Cruise to Amsterdam

We made a video of the whole of the mini-cruise – from beginning to end. 

A movie-star at last!

How Much is the Amsterdam Mini-Cruise?

Our P&O Hull to Amsterdam Mini-Cruise was great value for money.

It cost £80 for the two of us. Yes, you read that right – £40 each.

But in peak season, you can expect to pay much more.

Unlike a normal cruise, this is actually a ferry – albeit a very smart-looking ferry.

And, unlike a normal cruise, food isn’t included. So you need to budget for your food and drink.

Accommodation and entertainment were included in our £80 price tag.

So we thought it was excellent value.

If you want a day in Amsterdam and two nights of entertainment at sea, this could be the perfect bargain break.

How to Get The Bargain Price

• I’d recommend you aim to go early in the season (you know, the unpopular times when no one else wants to go and it’s cheaper). 
• Play around with various days – because prices can differ.  And then book it before the price changes. 
• Make sure to go through a Cashback website to get some cash back. Here’s how to do that .
• Remember to get yourselves some travel insurance.
• And then look forward to enjoying your mini-cruise.

Weekly Cruise Tips and Stories

Here’s where you can download our free cruise guide and receive our popular weekly emails with lots of cruise information and stories.

Reader Interactions

14th January 2023 at 1:28 pm

Sounds great. I must enquire further.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Cunard Line

Amsterdam Mini-Cruise Review

By geeky13 , November 11, 2019 in Cunard Line

Recommended Posts

Ever fancied one of those mini-cruises?  Those trips which hop from a UK port to locations on the North European coast are often advertised at very enticing prices?  Stuart Howells has been talking about his recent mini-cruise to Amsterdam. Does this short holiday make for a great first cruise? And is it an ideal way to see Amsterdam? Play his audiogram on YouTube to hear his review and opinions.  Let us know if you'd been on a similar cruise, especially if you went on a Cunard ship.  Happy Cruising!

Click here to listen to the Audiogram > https://youtu.be/uPZSD8nKjB4

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

So for short cruises Cunard 10 then P&O 5. The choose is pay more for elegance or less for party theme #simples

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• ANNOUNCEMENT: Set Sail Beyond the Ordinary with Oceania Cruises
• ANNOUNCEMENT: The Widest View in the Whole Wide World
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started 6 hours ago

LauraS · Started 10 hours ago

LauraS · Started Thursday at 04:15 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 03:00 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 10:41 AM

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...

• North East Days Out
• Privacy Policy

Amsterdam Zoo Mini Cruise with DFDS | A Review

This is an advert for August 2022. Any edits / shares beyond this date have not been asked or paid for. Prices and information correct as of August 2022. Please check with DFDS for the most up to date information.   I feel like we're fairly lucky living where we do and having a port offering daily direct crossings to Amsterdam on our doorstep. I have travelled from Newcastle-Amsterdam with DFDS a fair few times over the years, both as part of a mini cruise and as part of our holiday to Duinrell & Efteling where we travelled with our own vehicle. 

Trip Overview 

Cabins .

Where to Eat in the Evening 

Breakfast 

Activities On Board 

Amsterdam Zoo Trip 

Thank you so much for your wonderful review!! It's so detailed, insightful and fair- just what I needed to put my mind at ease as we're planning to take our 2 year old and I'm currently 5 months pregnant! Looks like there'll be plenty to keep us all entertained and relaxed!

Wonderful Amsterdam Mini Cruise

This trip not available.

Member savings.

Sign in  to see which companies give additional savings to Travelstride Members (it’s free)

• Coach travel throughout
• Overnight sailings on board P&O North Sea Ferries on a twin bunk en-suite cabin only basis
• Restaurant, bar, cinema & entertainment available on board
• Time to enjoy the delights of lovely Amsterdam.

What's this trip about?

Compare to similar trips.

European Whirl (Paris, Base)

Rhine Bike & River Cruise: Basel to Amsterdam

Netherlands, Belgium & France - 2024

European Trail: Capitals & Cafés

Europe Explorer

Travel themes.

• National Parks
• Nature & Wildlife

Destinations

• Netherlands

Attractions

• Historic sightseeing

View Similar Trips

European Highlights (Paris, Summer, Base)

The Ultimate Bucket List

Holland & Belgium Bike & Boat: Bruges to Amsterdam

Essential Western Europe: Amsterdam, Berlin & Epic Views

Barcelona to Venice

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Dates & Availability

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Caledonian Travel (Operations Suspended) .

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Caledonian Travel (Operations Suspended) Reviews & Ratings

Other caledonian travel (operations suspended) reviews.

Like others i am frustrated about the lack of refund option with the recent cancellations. I completely understand that things have to be cancelled and can't fault t...

Exhibition was marvellous

Just back from the Liverpool Terracotta Warriors over night tour. Exhibition was marvellous. Hotel was excellent food good, a bit limited but not a problem for me. O...

Enjoyed the trip

Just home from trip with Caledonian Travel as part of a group To War Horse in Newcastle and thoroughly enjoyed the trip. War Horse of course was spectacular but the...

See all Other Caledonian Travel (Operations Suspended) reviews

Travelers also viewed

European Experience (2024)

Cycling from Amsterdam to Brussels

European Magic (London, Summer)

Get Social: Europe Express 2024-25

Cruise across Europe from Budapest to Amsterdam

Tour operator, caledonian travel (operations suspended).

Caledonian Travel are Scotlands leading specialist in short breaks and holidays by coach.

With a sensational selection of holidays right across the UK, Ireland and Europe- you are sure to find a holiday to suit!

From Britain and Ireland, Showtime Special, Sports, Family Fun and Special Events breaks through to European Adventures- we literally have 1000’s of short breaks and holidays for you to choose from.

About Travelstride

Find your perfect trip, travel confidently, become a member.

• Save up to $700 per person
• Access members-only specials
• Personalize trip recommendations

Compare to Similar Trips

Europe by Rail - London to Prague

Holland & Belgium Bike & Boat: Amsterdam to Bruges

City Slickers

Best of Holland

Best of Holland, Belgium and Luxembourg (Amsterdam)

Tour companies, things to do, itineraries.

Ferries from UK/Ireland

Ferries in Scandinavia

Ferries in the Baltics

Spain & Morocco

MiniCruises

Package Holidays

Onboard our routes

Inspiration

Discover DFDS

Travel Information

Travel Extras

More Information

Set Sail to Amsterdam

Minicruise to amsterdam with breakfast included from £98.

Ready to travel more this year? Start as you mean to go on with a mini cruise to Amsterdam from just £98 for 2 people. Enjoy excellent eateries, duty free shopping and live entertainment onboard before spending the day exploring the Dutch capital. With this offer valid for travel until 21 December 2022*, why not book ahead and look forward to a short break later this year?

Excludes July & August

2 Nights Onboard

No baggage restrictions

Discover vibrant Amsterdam

Excellent onboard facilities

Book by 31st August travel from 01 September – 31 December

Bus transfers included

Minicruise with breakfast outbound for £98 for 2

Weekend Supplement £25 cabin applies Thurs – Sat

Check-in opens

Check-in closes

Depart North Shields for Amsterdam

Arrive in IJmuiden, Holland

Coach departs for Amsterdam city centre

Coach departs Amsterdam for IJmuiden terminal

Ship departs IJmuiden

Breakfast available onboard

Arrive in North Shields

Mini Cruise to Amsterdam – what to expect

Step onboard your crossing to Amsterdam and be prepared to relax. Indulge in some shopping, sample some delicious cuisine in our choice of restaurants, sit back with a drink and enjoy some live entertainment in our bars and onboard club.

Following a peaceful sleep in your en suite cabin, you’ll arrive at our port in Ijmuiden and hop on to a bus transfer to Amsterdam to enjoy up to 5 hours in the Dutch capital before heading back onboard for your return crossing.

Book early to secure weekend dates!

How to redeem

• Click on ‘Book Now.’
• Select voucher option, the number of people and your desired travel date and click on ‘view prices.’ Please note: for a mini cruise the return journey takes place one day after the outward journey.
• Choose the desired cabin, possible meals and additional options. Breakfast on the outward journey are included in this offer and have already been selected.
• Enter your credentials or sign in with an existing account
• Enter your coupon code in the ‘Coupon Code’ field and click ‘Redeem.’
• Choose a payment method for any extra charge for additional services and complete the booking.
• You will now receive your booking number and shortly a booking confirmation by email.

Redeem your voucher code by 31st August 2022. All dates subject to availability and weekend supplement applies.

Our restaurants

North Sea Bistro

North Sea Bistro offers an intimate and luxe dining experience, with a seasonal menu and stylish surroundings.

Explorer's Kitchen

Explorer’s Kitchen is our all-you-can-eat buffet restaurant, boasting international cuisine for every taste.

Coffee Crew Café

Head to our café, Coffee Crew, for Starbucks® coffee, tea, bottled drinks and freshly baked sweet treats.

Cabins Onboard

Double Bed Cabins

Our double bed cabins are designed with couples in mind. Sail between Newcastle and Amsterdam in this comfortable, en suite cabin with inside and sea view rooms available.

Sea View Cabins

Sail from Newcastle to Amsterdam with front row seats to the beautiful North Sea from your en suite, sea view cabin. Cabins can sleep up to 5 people in bunk beds.

Economy Cabins

Ideal for the budget-friendly traveller, our comfortable, en suite, economy cabins from Newcastle and Amsterdam sleep 2 – 4 people in bunk beds.

Pet Friendly Cabins

Travel onboard our DFDS ferry in a pet friendly cabin from Newcastle and Amsterdam, which can accommodate up to 4 people and 2 medium sized dogs.

Onboard experience

Food & Dining

Our unique dining experiences onboard include an international buffet and a luxurious à la carte restaurant when you sail between Newcastle and Amsterdam.

Our range of en suite cabins provide accommodation to suit every taste and budget on a ferry between the UK and Holland.

Entertainment

Choose from partying the night away on a short break to Amsterdam, or simply relaxing with a drink in hand.

Duty Free Shopping at Sea

Join us on a ferry to Holland and enjoy unrivalled shopping facilities with savings of up to 50% against the high street.

Family Travel

Sea travel is very exciting for children and our ferries provide a range of entertainment for all ages.

Ship Overview

Discover everything there is to know about King Seaways and Princess Seaways.

New Year Travel

Amsterdam is the ideal destination for a trip away with family or friends and if you visit in spring you can see it bloom once more. Enjoy the milder weather on a canal cruise and explore the city via its famous waterways. Visit the many museums in the city where you can find world famous art, the historical hiding place of Anne Frank and even a cheese museum. For the kids Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum and Madame Tussauds provide plenty of fun and why not pop by the floating flower market to see the famous Dutch blossoms before returning home?

All DFDS Mini Cruises

Our mini cruise breaks are our most popular breaks, and it’s easy to see why. Not only do you get to spend time in a fantastic city, but you’ll also be treated to 2 nights onboard our modern, comfortable and well-equipped cruise ferries.

Our mini cruises are the perfect combination of a short city break and a cruise experience.

Championing the Seas!  

We're elated to announce that DFDS has once again retained its title as Europe’s Leading Ferry Operator at the 2024 World Travel Awards.

This accolade wouldn’t have been possible without you, our loyal passengers. Thank you for recognising the hard work of our exceptional team members who are dedicated to ensuring each voyage is as exceptional as the next.

Your ongoing support is the anchor to our success.

P&O Mini Cruise, Hull to Amsterdam Reviews

Food - quality & variety

Entertainment on board, value for money.

• Reviews (42)
• Media Gallery (3)

Media Gallery for P&O Mini Cruise, Hull to Amsterdam

Refine your search

• Only show reviews with star rating of:
• 5 Star   (13)
• 4 Star   (18)
• 3 Star   (6)
• 2 Star   (2)
• 1 Star   (3)
• Average Rating Over Time
• Within the last month ***** (From 0 reviews)
• Within the last 6 months *** (From 0 reviews)
• Within the last 12 months * (From 0 reviews)

Latest Reviews

“brilliant mini cruise”.

written by yfMonaghan127 on 30/11/2019

Travelled on the price of hull ,lovely ship ,I'm travel ship and I was fine on the crossing very smooth.our cabin was a upgrade it was lovely worth it ,window,clarins beauty products,free mini bar,tv,kettle,tea,coffee,biscuists,crisp,the entertaintainment was great at night lots of bars to have a drink in prices same as home. Had a meal in the brasserie it was lovely and not too e xpensive. I could of stayed a week on this ship it had everything the atmosphere was great.couldn't fault anything going back soon .

“Bar services ,,bad beer and bad service”

written by Tazsalem on 14/01/2017

The pride of Rotterdam is a great boat ,most of the staff is fantastic ,,European bar staff has bad attitude with the guests specially when I complained about bad or out of date beer ,,otherwise Resturant staff and food is fantastic ,,room service is fantastic ,,,entertainment at sky lounge ,was great ,,,the trip was great and enjoyable part from the bad service and bad beer ,,which has put me off getting on this trip again,,,

“Hull to Amsterdam mini cruise- you pay for what you get ”

written by Bob2014 on 03/11/2013

Firstly the price is well worth it, 2 nights on the ferry and 1 night in the Dam you can't complain for £75... Although I must say the evening entertainment was horrific. 3 of the most un matched people I have ever seen. They murdered every song and on the way back we had to listen to the exact same murderous set. I know it is cheap but surely it's not hard to find a band that actually go together? The breakfast was a disaster had to wait 15 mins for beans hash browns and egg, by this point the que was huge and everything else on the plate was freezing. I wouldn't have minded but there wasn't even any staff behind the counter to see that there was nothing left, just a little irritating although if you can hack the cheesy band and we will count the breakfast disaster as bad luck then your in for a good fun cheap weekend! Maybe I am just miserable because I am still hungover!

“ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS - WELL WORTH IT!”

written by on 25/04/2013

My daughter and I went on a mini-cruise to Amsterdam at the end of March 2013, when the 2-4-1 offer was on. We had a wonderful time. The cabin had two single beds with a sea view. Lovely and clean. We had the prepaid meals and were very impressed. The choice and quality of food was excellent. The staff were very friendly, helpful and polite. The entertainment was good - live band and dancing, disco later. We were a bit nervous about the crossing because it was so windy, but there was nothing to worry about and thoroughly enjoyed it. Nice selection of things to buy in the shops onboard. So pleased we went and can't wait to go again! Thank you P & O!

“Too much queuing”

written by AVGreaves on 02/11/2012

Having travelled on P & O minicruises several times we had raved about them to our friends who came with us on this occasion. It was a real disappointment from beginning to end -though due to organisational flaws rather than poor staff service. There was just too much time wasted. Initially boarding the ferry we were met by very unfriendly staff whose sole purpose seemed to be to stop you taking any alcohol on board to ensure that you have to pay their over inflated prices at the bar. Also they informed my husband that his swiss army knife was an offensive weapon and he wasn't allowed to take it on board!! They relented slightly and put it in the ship's manifest for him to collect later. The result no tweezers, nail scissors, bottle opener (but they hadn't let us take any bottles) pen, toothpick magnifying glass and all the other useful extra items that it was taken for. We got over that hiccup and were determined to enjoy ourselves and I don't mean with an excess of alcohol. We had not booked any meals so am unable to comment on them. As usual the cabins were adequate and the en-suite element is a real bonus. On checking the shower gel container it was empty but on informing reception it was immediately filled though I do feel these details should be checked before passengers are loaded. We awoke early thanks (?) to the constant announcements through the tannoy and prepared to disembark. It had been a rough crossing so we arrived about 30 mins late, no fault of anyone's except the weather but at this point frustration really kicked in. We had to queue to get off the ship as they only allow so many off at a time for safety reasons. It took us about 1/2 an hour simply to get off the ship! Then another 20 mins to get through customs. On a day trip this is too much time taken off the day. The coaches were waiting and set off quickly so that was a bonus. Unfortunately the traffic was horrendous and although the P & O itinerary stated we should be in Amsterdam for 10.30 am we did not arrive until 12.15 pm- nearly 2 hours late and leaving us a little under 5 hours in Amsterdam. As usual Amsterdam was fantastic but we had to rush everything because of the excessive queuing at the port. We were duly back at the bus stop for 5pm and were then informed that the bus stop had moved and this meant that those at the back of the queue ended up at the front at the new bus stop. The first bus didn't arrive until about 5.15 pm and then they came at about 5 minute intervals meaning a long cold wait! On returning to the terminal at Rotterdam we were dealt with quickly and efficiently and were able to board quickly. The cabin had been cleaned and new towels provided which was great. We settled down to enjoy our picnic tea which got several envious looks. Again though we had to pay the over inflated bar prices. On landing in Hull the nightmare of yesterday returned- another 30 mins to get off the ship and 40 mins to get through customs- only 2 on duty. I don't understand the shortage of staff as they know what time the ship docks and the number of passengers on board. Although we had "chip" passports there was no allowance for these to be used as there is in airports. Due to the excessive waiting I needed to go to the toilet before going through passport control and this was the straw that broke the camel's back. They were filthy and had no toilet paper. What a welcome to Britain for our European visitors. I was ashamed and again these should have been checked and cleaned prior to the arrival of the ferry. The mini cruises are still excellent value but could be and were so much better. It is a shame that an excellent concept is being devalued and I will think carefully before booking again. I understand delays caused by weather and traffic but delays caused by inadequate numbers of staff should be addressed. Security is a genuine concern but please have the correct number of staff to avoid such excessive and unnecessary delays.

“Sailing downhill”

written by MartyHirst on 03/09/2012

As a regular user of just about all of the available North Sea crossings (average 150 crossings per year for the last ten years) I have experienced many levels of standard and a range of quality of service.  Last night, for the first time in ages, I shipped on P&O's "Pride of Hull". I was given a cabin key on deck 8, just down the corridor from the noisy cabaret/disco. On entering my cabin and checking the bathroom I noticed the shower-head was held in position by a plastic bag being tied around it and the soap dispenser was defective, filled but unserviceable. I lifted the toilet lid and was confronted by a toilet bowl filled to the brim with human waste. These ships sail only once a day so it'd been there for at least twelve hours. Quickly closing the lid and pressing & holding the vacuum button disposed of that little welcome gift. I reported it to reception, she apologised. Down at the bar I ordered a pint of Stella. £3,50 to you sir, or €5,10 Five Euro's and Ten Cents for a pint of Stella?? (€3,20 on Stena Line) Over the intercom an announcer "was pleased to inform us" that the Bureaux de Change was now open and that P&O charges no commission on transactions. Today's exchange rate was €1,41 to the pound. I quickly checked online, the going rate that day was €1,26 to the pound. Who needs commission at those rates? Deck 8 is, of course, directly above deck 7. Deck 7 is the main car-deck. Ships move a little and vibrate slightly. Car alarms are sensitive to all this and trip regularly. This is all very audible through the floor and resulted in a broken night's sleep. Eventually, at 05,30hrs I gave up and took a cold shower. "No hot water?", I hear you ask. Plenty of hot water, I just needed to cool down, the wall thermostat was broken and was stuck on 30 degrees all night! Thank you P&O. Thank you for reminding me why I prefer crossing with Stena Line.

“Mini cruise to Bruges from Hull”

written by SusieBirtles on 31/07/2012

Absolutely brilliant value I went with a friend, we had a cabin each with en suite facilities We had dinner both evenings and paid up front The staff made us feel special-Nothing was too much trouble for them. The whole experience was seamless and easy. Fantastic! I was nervous about going and now want to do it again and again. The parking was convenient and cheap and so easy to find. Everyone there was brilliant. Fab food, fab sailing, fab information and I loved it-Really did. I just felt so spoiled by you all For 145 quid It was bargain! Thankyou I am trying the Amsterdam mini cruise next

“DFDS Harwich to Esbejerg”

written by on 14/06/2012

The ferry trip from Harwich to Esbejerg is a complete rip-off. DFTS have the monopoly of ferries to North Germany and Denmark. To get to other ferries one has a long drive. The trip which can well cost in excess of £1,000 for a return trip for two is over four times as expencise as Ryan AIr and twice as expensive as driving and staying in a hotel. DFTS strongly discourage passengers from bringing on their own food and force them to use ther very expensive failities. The trip is not a cruise and can be very uncomfortable in the North Sea.

“Brilliant Value for money - Great Weekend away!! ”

written by on 01/04/2012

We went for the two day cruise to Rotterdam / Amsterdam. We got the 2 for 1 deal! PRIDE OF HULL. We went for the Meals when buying the ticket which was the best thing to do, we paid £20 each for the food (Based on 2 people) which was amazing value for money - The meals were £18.99 on board at the cheapest resteraunt. Meals included - Breakfast, full brekkie and continental. - Evening meal was a 'Sunday Dinner' or Curry and second night - Beef / Turkey or escalops / Fish. - Good service. Rooms were to be expected, two single beds, We paid extra for a window which was worth it in my view. - We also had a mini dressing table, one of the beds folded into a sofa and an ensuite (more spacious then expected after reading prev reviews). Also on Board was a cinema showing 4 films, the casino was two tables at the side of the bar, not brill. There was a few shops on board - Gift shop (V expensive) , Pefume shop, wasnt too bad - also sold brands like body shop and handbags/sunglasses. There were also a few Bars - irish bar and a general bar. Lots of seats. - Top posh bar led onto the sundeck, was good, on the evening there was a pianist / singer. There was a reception (as soon as you board ask for extra pillows are rooms has 2 not enough!) . The boat does rock quite a lot so be prepared!! Overall drinks quite expensive, bottle of wine £10 - Beer about £3 a pint. However WOULD definatly reccomend, good little weekend break ! :D

“totally shattered.com”

written by mcookie30 on 27/02/2012

great mini cruise to amsterdam the ship is massive (pride of rotterdam) with lots of facilitys for all ages, beer price onboard slightly high but not budget busting, the food in the four seasons buffet was ok not the best but the chicken wings and ribs were really good and i sure ate all i could (specially as id been sat in a coffee shop earlier in the day :)) the cabins were small but fit for purpose with a decent shower not that we slept much 6 hours in 2 days but hey that was my own doing nothing to do with the bed or ship, didnt really get to see as much of amsterdam as i would of hoped to have seen more but 5 hours really isnt enough time :( i would fly personally next time to enable 2-3 days in amsterdam but for a cheap break on a party boat id reccoment to anyone !

“2 night amsterdam cruise”

written by tatvic on 23/02/2012

check in at Hull ,easy no fuss, staff helpfull, on board the ferry crew freindly and good entertainment -live bands..piano singer..however , dirty beer glasses , the food in the buffet certainly is'nt worth the price ,all you can eat only cause they trying to get rid off it all..!! , Costa coffee expensive .,the cabins smelled like a old peoples home, this really lets the ferry down as cleanliness should be priority..the ferry as a lot going for it

“Had a great time - Second time on a ferry”

written by on 18/02/2012

The first ferry crossing since I was younger, we sailed on the Pride of Rotterdam from Hull - Rotterdam. Website was easy to use, pricing was strange though as trying to book it a day later increased the cost from £75 to £400+!!! So I booked a basic room including transfer from Rotterdam to Amsterdam, for £75. Had a great time. Information about which terminal/carpark to go to at Hull was confusing, and the pay machine didnt work so lots of people were almost late because of it. Otherwise, a flawless victory from P&O, great staff, great service, prices average but cheaper than the airlines for food and drink. We had a great time

“A complete rip off”

written by on 06/02/2012

I booked a buy one get one free from Hull to Amsterdam which was fine a real bargain until I got their and discovered it was £6 a night to park and £12 each meal costing any extra £207.00 as they wouldnt let me take my own food on THIS IS A SCAM AND PEOPLE SHOULD BE WARNED ABOUT THE EXTRA COSTS AS THEY WANTED MORE FOR THE FOOD THAN WHAT THE BREAK COST ME.

Fester71's Comment

Written on: 24/04/2013

You really need to have a word with yourself. O dear, paying for parking. do you have to pay for parking in ever town in the UK? Can't take your own food on board. Do you often go into a café or restaurant with sandwiches and a flask of tea? No!! Your just a cheap anything for nothing moaning skinflint. Bet you relish Christmas scrooge.

Nicolamichelle86's Comment

Written on: 02/08/2013

My thoughts exactly fester71 The mini cruise is cheap enough and p&o have not hidden the fact you have to pay £7 per 24 hours for car park what I think is quite good

Hondavfr750's Comment

Written on: 19/08/2013

so why were so stupid as to not read the details of the trip they are all there on the web page.peoples stupidity astounds me sometimes

“con with parking”

written by pam.p on 27/01/2012

we paid £12 for 2 nights parking at hull, the ticket comes in 2 parts both say pay and display and are dated, one part goes in car, i put the wrong part in and found a parking fine on my return, i have to pay £30 within 7 days or £100 after that, i contacted pps the company that has contract with P&O and told it was my fault even though i have proof of purchase, I have driven for over 40 years and never had a parking ticket or fine i am 65 this year and i am very upset about this, the tickets are in small print and i think they are done this way to confuse, i have complained to P&O and said they should put a stop to this blatent con, so be aware when parking in hull at P&O.

“P and O Hull to Amsterdam”

written by bwfc76 on 05/12/2011

We went Hull to Amsterdam on 3/12/11. Check in at hull was very easy and well organised. Ship experience was excellent, staff very friendly and helpful. Good entertainment at night too, kids were happy playing in the ball pool in the childrens area. Food was also excellent and plenty of choice too. Good bars with plenty of choice of drinks,a little more pricey than pub prices £3.40 for a pint of lager. Cabin was small and basic but very clean, also cabin shower and toilet basic but clean.Coach transfer to Amsterdam very good and well organised. Overall for the money we paid I think this trip was excellent value for money and will do this again in the future.

“Very good value for money but be warned the cabins are...”

written by on 16/03/2011

Very good value for money but be warned the cabins are very small and if we do it again we will do an upgrade onboard.The crew going out were very good and polite and helpful but coming back we found them not caring and sometimes even rude. The coach transfers to Amsterdam were very easy to find outside the terminal and again coming back from the same place.We stayed a night in Amsterdam and wished we had longer there,what a great city and very scenic and lots to do.Overall a good value break but watch those cabins and do an upgrade.

“Absolutely fantastic. 8 of us went for my birthday (2...”

written by Dannyshax on 14/02/2011

Absolutely fantastic. 8 of us went for my birthday (2 night booze cruise hull-rotterdam) and it was one to remember. Staff very friendly and approachable from arrival to departing. Drinks on board were around £3.20 a pint for lager, spirits can be a little expensive but not pocket busting. If you have the option book breakfast and other meals in advance as breakfast is £10.45 ( buffet) so you can go back but can only eat so much anyway :-) buying alcohol from duty free outbound is tricky as you can't actually get it until you board to return back. Shops etc close around 11pm and bar at 1pm. Rooms are all you need, hot shower and beds are surprisingly comfortable, but if you're like me, was chatting to others on the ship until 5 so didn't sleep all that much anyway, but had fun finding my room. If possible book a night to stay in Amsterdam as the city is completely different at night so you can experience both day life and night life. I'm already planning to go again this year.....

“Can't recommend P&O highly enough. I had made several...”

written by on 14/02/2011

Can't recommend P&O highly enough. I had made several alterations to this booking prior to setting off, including changing from car to foot passengers, and changing the date and one of the passengers! All handled politely and no fuss. Very pleasantly surprised with the ferry crossing, room perfectly adequate, shower great. The staff are very professional and friendly, food was good and I disagree with comments about the price, thought it excellent value, nothing to stop you going up more than once to the buffet, and for those who prefer waiter service there is a brasserie. Drinks similar price to where we live in the UK. Would definitely book again but would spend a night in Amsterdam as didn't have long enough to do all I wanted.

“P&O mini cruise on the BOGOF offer for the pride of...”

written by on 10/02/2011

P&O mini cruise on the BOGOF offer for the pride of hull. We did this on our two days off work, wanted to just have a bit of fun away from home and this really did tick all of the boxes for us. We traveled up and found were the port was. Plenty of parking as there is a multi storey car park on site, car parking is £5 per 24hrs. No que when we walked in and check in, customs and boarding ect took 10 min. All the team on board and at the terminal were very friendly. Room was small but as it was only for sleeping in was more than fine. Was fold away bunks so we did that to give more room when getting changed. 2 restaurants and a pretend costa coffee shop all of which were clean. If you want coffee by from the costa as you get more value for money, no one will stop you taking it to the show bar or sky deck. Beer prices were £3.30 for murphy's and £3.20 for Stella so just a tad more than uk city prices. Pepsi was £1.99 a pint and that's cheaper than your local brewers fayre. We didn't get searched for beer on the way in ether so could have bought some with us. Cover band was very good and the show bar was open until midnight. 2 cinemas (30-40 capacity) showing up to date dvd's ie knight and day, tickets were £5.50. Casino was small but a good fun. Wake up call is hand for breakfast but you can afford to sleep in as there are more later on as you get closer to port. We opted to get breakfast in the city and were very happy with the price and quality we got. Beer in the city is about the same as the boat. Food is cheaper and gifts are about right too. Sex toys are dear, hookers in windows are cool but did not ask for a price (sorry), joint (skunk) and 2 coffees came to 8 euros. Look around as there are nice cafes to smoke in. Museums were interesting and boat ride was fun. We had 6 hours in the city and if you look up stuff before you go is plenty of time. Transfer time from/to the boat is hour and half to two hours. Couple of yobs on broad when we went but not picks about it (if you get my meaning). Take plenty of spending money if you want to drink, eat and do every thing this trip has to offer.

“Wenton the Hull - Bruges mini cruise mid October, £72...”

written by on 16/11/2010

Wenton the Hull - Bruges mini cruise mid October, £72 for both of us to travel. you cant even go to London on the train from here for that price. Meals on board are a little pricy but we got 10% off both ways for the Buffet/carvery, Im still trying to fit back in my kex after over indulging, everything thrown in icluding transfers to Bruges bus station a back to ferry Anyhow cut a long story, we enjoyed so much we booked again for End Nov 2010 for the trip to Amsterdam. same price & upgraded to Premier outside cabin on green deck, cant wait Booked through "Superbreak"

Our helpful community of likeminded people will be happy to answer any questions that you have.

Thanks for asking a question.

Once we've checked over your question we will put it live on the site and our strong community of experts will hopefully give you some great answers that you find useful.

We will email you when the question is on the site

Thanks for answering this question.

Once we've checked over your answer we will put it live on the site so others can gain from your experience. We rely on members like you to sustain our vibrant community so thanks again, we couldn't do it without you.

We will email your when your answer is on the site

Share this Page

Latest items in mini cruises.

• Thames Cruise Runnymede to Windsor

Date added: 12th July 2014

• NCL Norwegian Getaway Cruise

Date added: 16th January 2014

• Houseboat Golden Priviladge

Date added: 20th January 2011

• Tobago ,Tobago Princess

Date added: 23rd March 2009

• Brittany Ferries Mistral, 3 night Christmas Cruise to Rouen

Date added: 19th November 2008

Hot Stuff in

P&o mini cruise, portsmouth to bilbao, p&o mini cruise, hull to amsterdam, dfds seaways, copenghagen to oslo, see also..., selman nickel plated euphonium #2431n.

• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions
• How we use cookies
• © Review Centre 2024
• Review Centre Twitter
• Review Centre on Facebook
• In-Car Electronics
• Mobile Phones
• Office Equipment
• Personal Care
• Photography & Camcorders
• TV & Home Cinema
• Attractions
• Book Reviews
• Computer Game and Console Reviews
• Film Reviews
• Magazines and Newspapers
• Music Reviews
• Musical Instruments & Equipment
• DIY & Tools
• Food and Drink
• Garden Tools
• Garden and Outdoors
• Home Improvement
• Homeware & Furnishings
• Pets and Animals
• Utilities and Services
• Drinks Makers
• Fans and Heaters
• Food Preparation
• Fridges and Freezers
• Laundry and Dishwashers
• Clothing & Accessories
• High Street Shopping
• Weddings & Brides
• Credit and Debit Cards
• Currency and Foreign Exchange
• Debt and Financial Advice
• Pensions & Investments
• Saving and Banking
• Buying and Selling
• Car and Motorbike Accessories
• Car Reviews
• Maintenance and Servicing
• Motoring Websites
• Scooters and Mopeds
• Bikes, Cycling & Accessories
• Exercise & Fitness
• Indoor Sports & Games
• Outdoor Sports & Activities
• Fishing & Accessories
• Skiing & Snowboarding
• Team Sports
• Water Sports
• Booking a Holiday
• Camping & Caravanning
• Cruise Reviews
• Getting There
• Holiday Resorts & Destinations
• Travel Accessories
• Hotels & Accommodation
• Travel Agents
• Type of Holiday
• Gaming & Gambling Sites
• Money & Finance Sites
• News, Reference & Information Sites
• Online Communities
• Online Shops

• You are here:
• Review Centre
• Mini Cruises
• P&O Mini Cruise, Hull to Amsterdam

• Kingston-upon-Hull
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Holiday Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travellers' Choice
• Help Centre

P&o ferries mini cruise to Amsterdam - P&O North Sea Ferries - Hull to Rotterdam

• Europe    
• United Kingdom (UK)    
• England    
• Yorkshire    
• East Riding of Yorkshire    
• Kingston-upon-Hull    
• Kingston-upon-Hull - Things to Do    
• P&O North Sea Ferries - Hull to Rotterdam

This was my first time on a ship and i wasnt disappointed from the minute we arrived the staff were... read more

We booked a return trip and was very happy with the service. We went with our 21 month old toddler... read more

P&o ferries mini cruise to Amsterdam

Me and my partner went on the 2 night 3 day trip to Amsterdam and we really enjoyed ourselves the entertainment by the resident band was great there was a good atmosphere in the bar area and we enjoyed the drinks on offer. The room wasn't the best, it was very small but only paying £90 for the 2 of us it wasn't too bad as we were only in it at night the rest of the time we were exploring the ship so was worth the money. Would highly recommend to couples wanting to have a cheap weekend break

The overnight ferry to Rotterdam for Amsterdam or Zeebrugge for Bruges sailing nightly from Hull offer an alternative to flying or driving to Dover for ferry/channel tunnel if going from the North. The cruise ferries have decent cabin accommodation, all ensuite with sea views for a small fee and club cabins which include free mini bar fridge (non alcoholic) snacks are worth the small upgrade fee. There is lots to to on the 12 hour crossing including reasonably priced bar with entertainment, a piano bar with a more relaxed atmosphere. There is shopping, games and casino. You can pre-book all you can eat buffet dinner and breakfast which is good value and good quality food. Only thing that let it down was very rough North Sea. The boat was rocking side to side for most of journey which ruined the journey.

We have been going to Butlins 80s weekenders for several years but were getting fed up of the price increases so decided to try something different this year. We definitely weren't disappointed and will be doing it again next year if not before. This is an excellent value for money, simple break option. From the minute you arrive and park in the adjoined multi storey carpark, everything seems to work effortlessly. An efficient check in process and minimal waiting in queues at security make it much less stressful than an airport. We had paid for an upgrade to premium outdoor cabin and breakfast (still only cost us £106 each total) so had two sets of bunk beds. We were pleasantly surprised at the space we had in the room and the beds were comfortable. It also meant that we could leave our baggage in the room when we went ashore to Amsterdam. The room was spotlessly clean and the bathroom of ample size (although it is a little strange showering when the boat is rolling!). The entertainment was excellent and the drinks are reasonable considering, cheaper than Butlins at least! My only criticism is that it gets extremely hot in the Show Bar when its full but obviously this cannot be helped and there are plenty of cooler places to wander to if needs be. There are a couple of Duty Free Shops on the boat where you can purchase gifts, booze and cigarettes. The latter you collect when you leave the boat. Our cabin was at the end of a corridor and we did expect to hear people coming and going during the night but that was not the fact at all and we slept extremely well. They wake you up via a tanoy system piped into your room to give you chance to get breakfast prior to disembarking, Breakfast is buffet style with lots of different things to chose from, very good value for money. There is a little bit of waiting around when getting off the boat and onto the buses due to the sheer number of people but it all seems to flow well and is very well organised. We arrived in Amsterdam just before 11 and were picked up at 5 to go back to the boat. There are plenty of things to do in Amsterdam with a bit of something for everyone. We opted to sample the bars, coffee shops and red light district which provided lots of laughs along the way! Drinks are expensive with a pint of Heineken costing 6 euros but par for the course I guess in a city. More live entertainment again on the way back which was excellent. There is also a casino and a cinema if that is more your thing. There are two restaurants on board and a coffee shop that sells Starbucks coffee, sandwiches and snacks. The staff were all very smart, friendly, polite and helpful. There was also very visible security to maintain safety. All in all this was a very enjoyable, good value trip and we would definitely recommend it!

The ferries are good if you can get the 2 for 1 offer if not it works out a bit expensive especially if you want a meal on board

Outstanding trip,value and above all music and people .premier cabin with separate beds,large window .everything needed .book the combined meal deal,great value and good food.Lucky with the weather even the force 5 waves on the return crossing worked with the music

First Mini cruise to zeebrugge and coach tranfer to brugge all for £90 for 2 people first class service no problems really just £3.90 a pint could be a bit cheaper as alchol shop is cheap but you cant buy to drink which i didnt know lol so didnt bother the buffet has a very good selection but i think £21 a head is a bit expensive but enjoyed it as we hadnt eaten properly until journey back so decided to try it. Room was clean just got a bit warm through the night even with cold air been blown in from celing fan but overall experience is great i would defo use p&o again but maybe go somewhere else as brugges isnt the place for me