dfds mini cruise from newcastle

Ferries And Mini Cruises From Newcastle

Newcastle upon Tyne – most usually shortened to Newcastle – was named after a real castle that William the Conqueror’s son, Robert Curthose, built in 1080.

But the area was a thriving post and trading hub for a long time before that when the Romans decided that its strategic position on the banks of the River Tyne was exactly what they needed.

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The wood trade, coal mining and ship building have all been part of Newcastle’s industrial past, and evidence of these industries can still be seen today. The immense and fascinating Great North Museum gives visitors an insight into how Newcastle – and the surrounding areas – came into being. As well as museums (there is the Discovery Museum for hands on scientific fun too), Newcastle’s ancient past can also be explored; Newcastle Castle, where it all began, is a must-see, as are the creepy yet somehow beautiful Victoria Tunnel that run beneath the city.

Despite this being the most populated city in the north east, there are still many green spaces to get away from it all for a while, such as Jesmond Dene Park, a perfect oasis of nature in the midst of the city.

As for those who are a little more art based, why not pay a visit to the iconic Biscuit Factory, the UK’s largest commercial design space.

Ferries and cruise ships from Newcastle

Ferry routes.

This information is for reference purposes only. Journey times are approximate. Frequency is based on typical schedules. Schedules are subject to availability and weather conditions. Information correct at the time of writing.

Taster Cruise Ship Itineraries

This information is for reference purposes only. Information correct at the time of writing.

Top 3 Cruise & Ferry Deals

• DFDS Amsterdam Mini Cruise From £65pp FLASH SALE
• DFDS Amsterdam mini cruise from £74pp
• DFDS Copenhagen to Oslo mini cruise from £24pp

To find other ports near you, take a look at the UK port map here .

Port of Tyne International Passenger Terminal, North Shields, Tyne and Wear, NE29 6EE, United Kingdom

Driving directions

The International Passenger Terminal at the Port Of Tyne is located in the North East of England, approximately 8 miles (about 13 kilometres) to the East of Newcastle-Upon-Tyne. It's used by cruise ships and ferries alike. Based in North Shields, it is a short distance from Newcastle Upon Tyne and has convenient transport links.

The Port is well signposted once you start getting within a few miles of Newcastle. From the A19 at the northern end of the Tyne Tunnel the A187 (Howdon Road) offers the most direct route to the port.

At the Coble Dean roundabout you want to head for the Royal Quays retail park which can be found just before the entrance to the port (very handy if you arrive early and fancy a walk around or a bite to eat!).

The Premier Inn North Shields is the closest hotel to the port so if you are travelling a longer distance to get to the port it may well be worth booking in for a stay here. At the next roundabout you want to head through the underwhelming entrance to the Port of Tyne.

If you're expecting something that screams Welcome you'll be disappointed. Be careful not to take the first exit off this roundabout else you'll head down a dead-end road round the back of the port.

Routes From Scotland

If you are travelling from Scotland there are three main arteries you are most likely going to follow. From the west the M74 runs from Glasgow and turns into the A74(M). At Carlisle you can jump onto the A69 which goes cross country across the North of England to Newcastle.

Alternatively the A68 runs from Edinburgh through Jeburgh before splitting into the A696 just to the north of Newcastle. Lastly, the A1 runs along the east coast of Scotland through Berwick-upon-Tweed and Morpeth before dropping into Newcastle.

Routes From North of England

From the North West of England you can take either the A69 from Carlisle to Newcastle upon Tyne or the A66 from Penrith to Darlington. Here you'll join the A1(M) past Durham, Chester-le-Street and Washington onwards to Newcastle.

For those in the North East of England Newcastle is incredibly easy to access and is very well connected to Northumberland and County Durham.

Routes From the South of England and from Wales

From South Wales you are most likely going to find yourself on the M4 until you cross the border before heading up the M5 to Birmingham. From there it makes sense to cross underneath the city on the M42 before joining the M1 past Nottingham, Sheffield and Leeds at which you'll switch to the A1(M). This will take you up through Darlington and Durham through to Newcastle.

From North Wales your first port of call is likely to be Chester where the M56 takes you over to Manchester. Use the M60 to circumvent the city before taking the M62 past Rochdale and Huddersfield. At Leeds you'll switch to the A1(M). This will take you up through Darlington and Durham through to Newcastle.

From the South West of England you'll most likely use the M5 motorway to Birmingham. From there it makes sense to cross underneath the city on the M42 before joining the M1 past Nottingham, Sheffield and Leeds at which you'll switch to the A1(M). This will take you up through Darlington and Durham through to Newcastle.

From the South East and London it would make sense to use the A1(M) which is accessed from Junction 23 on the M25. This takes you past Hatfield, Welwyn Garden City and Stevenage to Letchworth Garden City. Here the A1 starts and runs North past Biggleswade and St Neots before changing back to the A1(M) at Huntingdon albeit briefly as at Peterborough it changes back to the A1. This heads past Grantham and Newark-on-Trent before switching back to the A1(M) at Blyth. This runs past Doncaster before briefly changing back once again to the A1 between Carcroft and Pontefract. From here the A1(M) runs up past Leeds, Darlington and Durham through to Newcastle.

Car parking

As with most ports the car park is charged-for and is on a par with airport parking fees. In May 2016 it was charged at at £12 per 24 hours or part thereof.

This means if you cross into the next 24 hour block, even by just an hour, you will be charged a full day rate. So for example if you park at 3pm on a Friday and embark on a two night mini cruise to Amsterdam returning at around 9am on Sunday, you will be charged for two days of parking.

Getting there by coach

National Express run coach services from across the country to Newcastle upon Tyne Coach Station, a short distance from Newcastle Central Train Station. One route includes a stop at  Northumberland Square in North Shields although you'll still need a taxi to get from here to the port.

Route 380 links Newcastle-Upon-Tyne to Wrexham via Sunderland, Middlesbrough, Darlington, York, Leeds, Manchester, Liverpool and Chester.

Route 425 connects Ashington with London, via Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, Darlington, and Leeds. This is the only route that includes a stop at Northumberland Square in North Shields.

Service 591 runs between Edinburgh and London, with a stop at Newcastle-Upon-Tyne alongside short refreshment stops.

Service 580 links Liverpool with Newcastle-Upon-Tyne via Manchester.

Route 385 bridges Newcastle-Upon-Tyne with Pwllheli in North Wales. The route includes pick-ups at Manchester, Liverpool, Cheshire Oaks, Prestatyn, Rhyl, Colwyn Bay, Llandudno, and Bangor.

Book your tickets here .

Getting there by train

If you're travelling to the port by rail, the nearest Metro station is Percy Main Station which is around one mile away. The Metro system is integrated with local railway stations surrounding Newcastle.

As for the main train station it can be found in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne around 9 miles (about 14 kilometres) away from the port.

The journey between Edinburgh and Newcastle takes around 1½ hours on a direct service. Hull is under 3 hours away from Newcastle as is London, while the journey from Birmingham to Newcastle takes an extra ½ hour. The journey from Cardiff to Newcastle involves changes at Manchester and York and takes around takes around 7 hours.

Plan your journey here .

See below for transfer options from the Railway Station to the port.

DFDS Transfer Bus (for passengers sailing with DFDS Seaways)

DFDS Seaways run branded buses from Newcastle Central Railway Station to the port in North Shields. You can find the current costs here ° but in May 2016 it cost £3.80 per adult each way, and £2.80 per child aged 4+ each way (infants under 4 were free). These buses run to coincide with the ship arrival and departure times, and the transfer usually takes up to 30 minutes depending on the traffic.

You can pre-book a bus transfer at the same time you book your ferry sailing and it is worthwhile doing to save hassle at the time.

• Buses usually run from Newcastle city centre to the port at 1445hrs and 1545hrs though I suggest you double check with DFDS Seaways using the link above as these times are subject to change.
• The return journey departs a short while after the arrival of the ship into the port so make sure you get off the ship promptly if you want to catch this bus.

Tyne and Wear Metro

The nearest Metro station to the port is Percy Main, which is still a considerable walk from the port at 1 mile (about 2 kilometres). You can get to Percy Main from Newcastle Central which takes around 20 to 40 minutes depending on which service you get. During peak times this service runs ever 10 minutes. You can find the latest fares here but in May 2016 the adult fare was £2.50 for a two-zone ticket one-way and a child fare (for children aged 5+, under 5's travelled free) was £1.10 one-way.

From Percy Main a taxi might cost around £6 as it is one mile away from the port. If you haven't got too much luggage you might find this is an easy-enough walk. Head past the Percy Main Football Club grounds on St John's Green before joining Coble Dean. Walk past the Royal Quays retail park and the Wet n Wild attraction entering the Port of Tyne estate at the next roundabout. It's a short walk from the entrance to the International Passenger Terminal building.

Taxi Transfer

There are always likely to be taxis parked outside the train station ready to ferry you to the port. Fares vary but budget to spend around £25 one way depending on the route taken, traffic on the road and the time of day you are travelling at. The transfer time should be around 20 minutes depending on traffic volume.

Alternative ports to consider

• Ferries And Mini Cruises From Hull
• Ferries from Heysham
• Cruises from Rosyth, Scotland

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Hi, I'm David and I'm a mini cruise addict. I love the ease and simplicity of exploring Europe from the comfort of a cruise ferry or cruise ship almost as much as I love finding great value deals, including the mother of all deals, the famous '2 for 1' deals.

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? 

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Newcastle to Amsterdam by ferry – A Factsheet

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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.

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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!

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What is a mini cruise?

Our mini cruise from Newcastle to Amsterdam is our most popular break, and it’s easy to see why. It’s the perfect way to take a short break to one of the most fascinating cities in Europe , as well as enjoying a cruise experience onboard our comfortable, modern ships.

But what exactly is a mini cruise? And what can you expect if you book one? Well, in this blog we’ll take you through the trip from boarding to bed, to breakfast and back again.

All aboard!

Our ferry departs from the port in North Shields , near Newcastle, every evening at 5pm, so be sure to leave yourself plenty of time to check in and don’t forget your passport ! We recommend turning up at least 90 minutes before departure, but even earlier if you have any special requirements, and please let us know in advance if you do.

Not to worry though, as you can grab something to eat at our port café-bar , pick up a couple travel items at the shop or play on the arcade games. Royal Quays outlet is also just up the road, about 10 minutes away.

At check-in, you’ll be able to pre-purchase meals (and save compared to onboard prices), upgrade your cabin and add other extras if you wish. So if you’re looking for a way to make your mini cruise extra special, then look no further.

Once you’ve checked in you will pass through security and you’ll be able to board.

Cosy Cabins

Once you’ve boarded, you’ll be directed to your cabin where you can drop your luggage. We have a range of different cabins , all in different sizes and with different capacities, so no matter what your budget, and how many are travelling, we’ll have something for you. Our cabins range from 2-bed to 5-bed, plus we have standard inside, sea view and economy options, all with en suite facilities.

However, we know some of you will be thinking about taking a more luxurious trip, so that’s why we also offer premium Commodore and Commodore De Luxe cabins which include a TV, seating areas, a complimentary minibar and more. Commodore De Luxe customers will also get entry to the Commodore Lounge , where you can enjoy snacks, drinks and prosecco as you sail. Now that’s what we call sailing in style!

Eat, Drink and be Merry

Our ferries aren’t just a means of transport. At DFDS we believe that your journey should be every bit as fun as the time you spend in your destination, so that’s why we’ve packed our ships full with facilities and amenities to ensure you have a pleasant and enjoyable crossing.

You’ll find 4 restaurants to choose from, with food suitable for even the pickiest eaters. For a taste of the Mediterranean, head to Little Italy and choose from a range of pizza and pasta dishes suitable for all the family. The Blue Riband à la carte is a little bit posher, but no less accessible, with meat and poultry dishes, plus meals suitable for vegetarians. Our Explorers Steakhouse is one of our most talked-about dining experiences, serving up juicy, succulent steaks and sides still-sizzling to you.

Our most popular restaurant, however, is the 7 Seas all-you-can-eat buffet . So if you’re looking to stuff yourself silly on your journey, then look no further. You’ll have a choice of over 80 dishes from all over the world, plus delicious desserts and family-friendly meals too, so there’s no need to worry about finding something you’ll love.

Entertainment

Once you’ve had your fill of the delicious food onboard, we’re sure you’ll want to get your holiday started properly, and that’s why our ships are packed with things to do for travellers of all ages!

If you’re travelling with your family, then your kids will love the Kidz’ Club and the children’s entertainer, or our arcade games area. We also have shops onboard selling fashion, fragrance, toys, gifts and souvenirs , where you can spend some of your holiday money and indulge yourself in some retail therapy.

Our onboard cinema plays the latest Hollywood blockbusters and is perfect for couples or families, so you can grab a bag of popcorn and enjoy a thriller, a comedy or something a little bit more romantic.

For the grown-ups, we have a number of onboard bars where you can relax and grab a beer, sip a cocktail or a glass or two of fine wine. Our Columbus Club hosts live music and entertainment from a house band, acoustic troubadour and entertainer, and then later on you can dance the night away before you head back to your cabin for a good night’s sleep.

The most important meal of the day…

Those of you sensible enough to book a breakfast, and disciplined enough to get up early, before docking at 9.30am, can enjoy the delights of our breakfast buffet . With hot and cold breakfast options, including everything you’ll need to make yourself a full English, as well as pastries, fruit, cereal and plenty more.

Once you’ve disembarked, you’ll be directed to a number of transfer coaches which will take you from our port in IJmuiden to Amsterdam , approximately 40 minutes away, and then the day is yours to do with as you please!

Amazing Amsterdam

You’ll have anything up to 5 hours in Amsterdam, so more than long enough to explore but short enough that you won’t be left hanging around, and with so much to do in the Dutch capital, the hardest thing will be deciding on what you pack into your day.

Amsterdam was home to some of the most famous artists in history, and now is home to some of Europe’s foremost art museums, such as the Rijksmuseum with its collection of Rembrandt works and the Van Gogh Museum , hosting the great eponymous artist’s most brilliant masterpieces.

Take a cruise through the city’s canals and in just an hour you can see 100 of the city’s highlights . It’s a great way to get to know the city if it’s your first time, or to see the sights in an entirely new way if you’ve been before.

The Dutch capital is also a great shopping destination, with areas such as the 9 Streets including everything from boutiques to brands, and is well-stocked for bars and restaurants as well as Brown Cafés , similar to English pubs, and Grand Cafés , which are a little more ornate, and a great place to people-watch.

Between 3 and 4pm, our coaches will arrive in Amsterdam to pick you up. Your driver will have told you where to report back to when you first arrived in Amsterdam in the morning. These coaches will whisk you back to port so you can enjoy another night onboard, before arriving back in North Shields at 9am the next morning.

Whew, what a fun, non-stop trip!

Themed Mini Cruises

Our mini cruise is our most popular short break, and our themed mini cruises are another way to enjoy a short break to Amsterdam with a cruise experience.

Our North Sea Sounds music cruises include concerts from world-famous music artists and DJs. In the past we’ve welcomed ABC, The Christians, the Craig Charles Funk & Soul Show, Smoove & Turrell and plenty more onboard to entertain our customers as they sail.

If you’re an animal lover then our Amsterdam Artis Zoo mini cruise is ideal for you. You’ll spend a day at one of Europe’s oldest and most well-renowned zoos, with hundreds of animals of all species and types to discover. Alternatively, our Marine Wildlife mini cruise – in association with dolphin and whale charity ORCA – will give you an education on the animals it’s possible to see from the deck of our ship, including dolphins, whales, birds and more.

Our Halloween cruise is enormously popular, with a hotly-contested fancy dress competition and other themed fun, while our New Year’s Eve mini cruise includes 3 nights onboard, plus an open bar on New Year’s Eve, and the chance to see the famous Amsterdam fireworks at midnight from the deck!

So if all of this has got you in the mood for a quick jaunt to the Dutch capital, then be sure to head to our website for more information, ideas and inspiration!

July 5th, 2016 - Lucy Chambers

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June 22nd, 2022

Step Onboard King Seaways

January 20th, 2020

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The ultimate guide to the DFDS Amsterdam Mini Cruise

I’ve just got back from a weekend break to Amsterdam with DFDS on one of their mini cruises . I’m a firm believer in making the journey as much of the adventure as the destination, which is why I was so excited to go on the mini cruise from Newcastle to Amsterdam.

Setting sail at 5pm on a Friday from Newcastle, we sailed overnight and woke up with the sun rising over the port. After a 40-minute transfer to Amsterdam, we spent the day exploring the beautiful city before heading back to the boat and returning, waking up on Sunday morning in Newcastle.

If you’re wanting to make the most of your weekends, and have a little luxury weekend adventure, then this could be the trip for you!

Table of Contents

Newcastle to Amsterdam mini cruise at a glance

There are two ships that sail the Newcastle/Amsterdam route: King Seaways and Princess Seaways. For our trip, we were on the Kings Seaways which has two restaurants, a bar, a nightclub/entertainment area, a coffee shop, a children’s play area, a casino, an arcade and duty-free shopping.

There is a whole host of room types including sea views, dog-friendly rooms, premium cabins; commodore and commodore de luxe.

Commodore De Luxe Cabins

The commodore de luxe cabins are the most premium cabins on board – and boy do they come with a lot of extras!

Found on deck 10, these cabins have their own floor and you are greeted by members of the crew who take you to your room.

I couldn’t believe how spacious the rooms are in the commodore de luxe cabins. We had a twin cabin, and there was plenty of space for the two of us. On entering the room, you step into the living room area which has a sofa, chairs and table and dressing table. Then you had the two beds, built into the wall, and it felt very nautical. The bathroom on board had a shower, sink and toilet and was huge compared to the standard rooms (which was very welcome when seasickness hit!). Oh, and let’s not forget the two huge windows which give you the perfect sea view.

But Commodore De Luxe isn’t just about the gorgeous rooms…

You also have access to a private lounge where you can get drinks (soft drinks, wine, beer and prosecco), snacks, teas and coffees as well as a quiet place to sit and enjoy your journey. In the morning, you can also find pastries to keep you going before breakfast.

Speaking of breakfast, this is also included with commodore de luxe cabins. Rather than heading to Explorers Kitchen with the rest of the boat, everyone staying in the Commodore De Luxe cabins have their breakfast at the North Sea Bistro. There’s a whole range of hot food, pastries and cold meats and cheeses and it is delightful here, and a lot less hectic that the main Explorer’s Kitchen.

What to eat on DFDS Amsterdam mini cruise

There are two main places to eat on board the King Seaways boat for dinner and breakfast – North Sea Bistro and Explorers Kitchen.

The North Sea Bistro

The North Sea Bistro is the a la carte restaurant on board and is absolutely beautiful.

It’s a small menu, however a great range of options from steak to seabass to oysters. I actually opted for the vegetarian option, Pommes Anna, which is a medley of thinly sliced potato, zucchini, carrot, beetroot and sweet potato served with pickled red onion and a portobello cream sauce. I can honestly say this exceeded expectations and was full of flavour.

My friend went for the steak, which looked equally as delicious, which came with a peppercorn sauce and potato wedges.

For dessert we both opted for the chocolate fondant which was delicious, but I was so sad that the center wasn’t as gooey as I would like!

The Explorer’s Kitchen

The Explorer’s Kitchen is an all you can eat, around the world buffet. With a wide selection of foods from curries to salmon wellington to pizza – there truly is something for everyone here.

Sadly, when we ate here I was actually starting with sea sickness (it was a rough crossing coming back) so my appeitite was non exsistant at this point. However, I have actually done this sailing before, and usually eat at the buffet. From experince, it’s always a decent meal with lots of options.

The North Sea Bistro costs for 2 Courses is €38.95, and 3 Courses €42.95.

The Explorer’s Kitchen costs €25.95 for adults and you can be there for 1hr30.

Personally, I would choose the North Sea Bistro as it just felt a lot calmer and I really enjoyed my meal here.

Coffee Crew

As well as these two restaurants, there’s also a coffee shop on board which sells Starbucks Coffee and sweet treats.

What to do on a DFDS Amsterdam mini cruise

There is something for everyone onboard the DFDS mini cruise to Amsterd am. We didn’t actually get round to everything we wanted to do on board either – plenty to do on my next trip for sure! Here’s a run down of what’s available;

Bars & Live Music

There are plenty of places to sit down with a drink (can definitely recommend the cocktails!), soak up the atmosphere and be entertained.

The Compass Club is where you can dance to your hearts content however it was the Navigator’s Pub where we found ourselves as there was live acoustic music, which everyone was singing along too, and it was such a good atmosphere here.

At the Compass Club, you can also play bingo at 9pm. Sadly we missed this, but I can imagine it would be a lot of fun!

Arcade & Casino

On board there is a casino area for adults, and an arcade for all ages, which also included an air hockey table.

Children’s Scavenger Hunt

At 7pm on board, a scavenger hunt around the boat takes place for children, and they all looked like they were having a lot of fun! There’s also a mini soft play on board for them as well.

Showing some of the latest films, there are two screens on board showing films throughout the whole evening (I think the last screening took place at 11pm).

It costs around £8 per person and is a really fun way to spend the evening, especially if you don’t want to sit in the bars.

Duty Free Shopping

Of course there is duty free on board, and I always find that DFDS has the best prices compared to other ferry operators. I actually did buy some perfume on board because the price was so good compared to back on land.

As well as your classic duty free offerings, there is also a small clothes store on board too so if you run out of clothes, don’t worry because they’ve got you covered!

How long do you have in Amsterdam on the DFDS ferry from Newcastle to Amsterdam?

You dock in Holland at around 10am, and if you’re on the day mini cruise, I recommend queing early to get off, to make the most of your trip.

On this trip, we ended up in the very slow passport control queue, so we didn’t get into Amsterdam until just before 12pm. There are coaches back to the boat between 3pm and 4pm, and we headed to the coach around 3:45pm.

If you’re doing the mini cruise, the transfers between the boat and Amsterdam are included in the price. You can pay on the day as well.

Can you leave your belongings on board?

When you’re on one of the mini cruises, yes you can leave your belongings on board when you explore Amsterdam for the day. You have the same room on both journeys, so it’s essentially a floating hotel!

Overall thoughts on the DFDS mini cruise from Amsterdam to Newcastle

Overall, we had a great time on our mini cruise to Amsterdam.

I always think this is a great way to get a flavour for the city, and I’m sure you’ll want to return. If you’re wanting longer in Amsterdam, you can always book an extra night on land through DFDS to make this mini cruise into a whole holiday!

Even though seasickness hit (for the first time ever for me), I would defintely travel again. This was my 6th DFDS cruise to Amsterdam, and every time we have a great time. There is always a great level of service, and the boat is always clean and in good condition.

And that’s your guide to the DFDS mini cruise to Amsterdam. To book your trip, and find out more, click her e. If you’re looking for how to spend your day, click here to read 10 things to do in Amsterdam . For more travel guides, make sure to click here and have a browse . And don’t forget to join our free substack community for weekly postcards from some everyday adventures.

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What is a Mini Cruise?

Our popular mini cruise packages offer the perfect short break to Europe, with a couple of nights onboard one of our modern cruise ferries, and a flexible stay at your destination. There are many different packages to choose from, with options for visiting local attractions or extending your stay with a hotel. You could also go for a special onboard package, such as included gourmet meals or fun seasonal events.

During your mini cruise you can take advantage of all the comforts and facilities onboard, including a great selection of restaurants and eateries, bars and live entertainment, and a cinema and casino. There’s also games and play areas for the kids, as well as some great shopping. And of course you also have your private en suite cabin to retire to and relax at the end of the day.

What's included on a Mini Cruise?

Your mini cruise package will include your accommodation onboard, which you can specify from our available choice of cabins, and your transfer from the ferry port to your destination. You can also gain entrance to a local attraction if you choose the appropriate package, which will also include transport to and from the attraction. A standard mini cruise will include time for you to freely explore the local sights at your destination.

You're free to make use of the onboard facilities as you like during your mini cruise, but you can also choose packages that include meals at our selection of restaurants for a gourmet cruise experience. A seasonal mini cruise will also include fun activities and events onboard during the crossing, such as fancy dress, games, and live entertainment.

What to expect on a Mini Cruise

Your mini cruise package will always include the crossing itself and your en suite accommodation onboard. You also get coach transfers from port to your destination.

You’ll also have ample time at your destination to take in some local sights and attractions, or you can choose to extend your trip with a hotel, giving you more time to explore. You can also include access and travel to specific attractions or events at your destination.

If you choose one of our seasonal mini cruises, such as our Halloween cruise, you can expect lots of fun events and activities during your time onboard, or if you choose our Gourmet package you can treat yourself to delicious meals in our restaurants.

Who are Mini Cruises for?

Our mini cruises are perfect for anyone looking for an enjoyable and relaxing short break. It's an ideal holiday for families, as you don't have to worry about transport or finding hotels, and there's lots onboard to keep everyone entertained. There are play areas for young children, as well as games arcades and a cinema.

It's also perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway, giving you a classic cruise experience with comfortable cabins, fine dining, and fantastic destinations to explore together.

We also have some great mini cruise packages that would be perfect for friends and groups, as special deals are available for groups of 10 or more people. Don't forget the great onboard facilities for enjoying your night our onboard together.

Book a DFDS Mini Cruise

Spring into savings | Amsterdam mini cruise

Hop onboard this spring with our exciting new offer! Get a fantastic 50% discount on your mini cruise to Amsterdam & don't miss the chance to explore our newly refurbished cabins.

Seasonal and Themed Mini Cruises

With DFDS you can go on exclusive themed mini cruises between Newcastle and Amsterdam.

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.

DFDS Mini Cruise: Newcastle to Amsterdam – The Explorer’s Kitchen

Living in the North East, we’re pretty privileged when we think about. From sports events and a thick sports culture to rolling countryside and blue-flag beaches. There’s a wealth of talent hailing from the region; Alan Shearer, Cheryl Fernandez-Whatevershescalledthesedays-Cole, Ant & Dec, Robson Green, Bobby Robson, the DFDS Mini Cruise Ferries to name a few.

Travel links are taken for granted, we have the Metro, we’ve electric-powered buses, we have a huge train station and most notably, and most under-appreciated is the gateway to Europe via boat. Port of Tyne is located in North Shields, beside the Tyne Tunnel which connects North Tyneside to South Tyneside.

Local amenities include the Royal Quays, an outlet destination, an active Quayside with fresh fish arriving from the trawler boats daily. There’s the popular Tynemouth, a gorgeous little village with bistros, wine and cocktail bars and some seriously good fish restaurants .

The surroundings of The Port of Tyne boast a wealth of adventure, what about if you step onboard one of the boats? Surely there’s an even bigger adventure waiting? Escape to Amsterdam for a mini-break . The Amsterdam mini cruise is DFDS’ most popular break and it’s not difficult to see why!

BOOK YOUR DFDS MINI CRUISE BREAK NOW FROM £72PP HERE

You can explore Holland’s capital and spend 2 nights aboard the cruise ferry in this relaxing getaway at a great value price.

Onboard DFDS Mini Cruise they have created a total haven for those looking to relax in their cabins. They boast a huge bar with live entertainment and nightclub for those looking for a good time. There’s shopping, a cinema on board with some of the latest releases, shopping for those looking to purchase holiday souvenirs. Then there’s the dining.

Related Read;

• How to spend 5 hours in Amsterdam

With the King Seaways and Princess Seaways , both sailing the Newcastle/Amsterdam route, restaurants are aplenty regardless of which cruise ship you voyage on . We headed to the Explorer’s Kitchen onboard King Seaways to check out their refreshed and rejuvenated buffet restaurant.

• Wanderlust: A Trip to the Waldorf Astoria, Amsterdam

Explorer’s Kitchen Buffet is open for both breakfast and dinner and the prices are as follows;

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BUFFET DINNER PRICES

All-you-can-eat buffet breakfast prices.

*Prices correct at time of publication

The restaurant’s head chefs have a combined experience of over 60 years sailing the seas, tasting local dishes from around the globe, which makes them pretty qualified when it comes to putting together an international buffet of their favourite delicacies.

With an array of different cuisine choices, there’s something for everybody from the picky eater to the refined palette . Where will your taste buds take you?

Devour American style burgers, dogs and fries, guzzle on Greek meatballs or smash out a Spanish omelette. Are you more into food from the Far East, divulge on the Daahl, move your fork quicker with the Mediterranean, there choice really is aplenty.

There’s soup for starters or perhaps a fresh salad takes your fancy. The Explorer’s Kitchen offers around 8 different carts full of delicious dishes for you to feast on.

Cruising is the new cool – find out more when we Ran away to Paradise on a 4-day cruise with Jon Bon Jovi .

They also cater for vegans and vegetarians as well as any other additional dietary requirements.

For dessert there’s an array of typical Dutch style desserts, well you wouldn’t expect anything less heading to and from Holland now would you?

If you’re not a fan of sweet puddings there is a pretty gouda selection of cheeses (excuse my cheesy puns, I hope they make you feel grate !)

The buffet is obviously buffet quality food and great value if you pre-book, especially if you’ve got an appetite! If you’re looking for fine dining then The North Sea Bistro is probably better suited for you. Prices are as follows;

2-COURSE À LA CARTE DINNER PRICES

#ferrygoodfood, ferry prices..

The next time I travel on the DFDS mini cruise to Amsterdam I do think that I’d probably dine at The North Sea Bistro over The Explorer’s Kitchen and that’s just based on my personal preference of having a plated meal over a buffet. I do, however, think that (if pre-booked) it’s good value for money especially if you intend on eating a lot and/or you are travelling with children.

I do, however, also think that the drinks prices are a little excessively priced, with a fresh orange juice costing €4. This is not just in The Explorer’s Kitchen, I also felt that the price of drinks was exceptionally high across the whole ship on my last trip to Amsterdam from Newcastle via the DFDS mini cruise ferry.

Have you been on the ferry? I’d love to know your thoughts below.

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We recently did a return trip to Amsterdam (IJmuiden) with DFDS with a group of friends to... read more

We arrived at Newcastle and it was a speedy boarding. The cabinet was small but clean and did the... read more

Dfds mini cruise

Third time and was amazing as usual very clean, food was amazing staff friendly and helpful always feel relaxed after manicurist highly recommend x

Dear 463pammiem, Thank you for taking the time to review your recent experience with DFDS. We are so thrilled to read such kind feedback regarding your journey with us! We look forward to welcoming you back on board again for another great experience! Kind regards, Amiee Customer Experience Specialist

After doing Hull-Rotterdam there are pluses and minuses Pluses - The journey from port to city centre isn't as long as P&O Staff on the check in desk very helpful and friendly - moved us to a room near our friends that were in a disabled room Room nice and spacious and clean - beds quite comfortable - need new pillows Minuses- Nowhere to get a drink or food in the departure terminal so if you get there early its not good Arriving on ship is confusing as there was no-one around giving us directions to our room Staff on board just walking around and hiding down corridors on their phones - cant be bothered to help Buffet evening meal was atrocious - no order to it - just looked like it had been thrown together - so much mixture of cuisines but not much of it. Not worth £23.50. Breakfast is the same really.... just basic and nowhere to get eggs / omelettes made fresh Had to ask twice to order drinks. Bar prices are very high. To be honest they were quite shockingly high. Outward journey was delayed by 3 hours which didn't give us very long at all in Amsterdam which was a shame but no-ones fault I suppose. More negatives than positives and I think in future will stick with P&O

Dear Beverleyconnor, Thank you for taking the time to review your recent experience with DFDS onboard our Newcastle to Amsterdam crossing. We are very disappointed to read there was more negatives than positive on your trip. Your honest and detailed feedback regarding your journey with us, is very much valued and appreciated and I can ensure you your comments will be used to address any areas of development but also to ensure we are continuously improving our customers overall experience and journey with us. We do hope should you return and travel with us in the future you will see how fabulous our products and services are and your experience next time will to the high standards DFDS pride themselves on. Kind regards, Amiee Customer Experience Specialist

Late sailing to Amsterdam. Very limited range of beers on tap. No free WiFi at all. No shower gel. Dated ferry. Comparison between Britanny ferries and Dfds is like night and day. Also higher prices. As for duty free shop you're cheaper going to a supermarket. All in all Not a pleasant experience. Will think twice before using them again.

Dear Maxheadroom00, Thank you for taking the time to rate your experience with DFDS. We would like to discuss your rating and comments further. Please could you contact us at [email protected] Kind regards, Amiee Customer Experience Specialist

We have used this line previously but on this occasion it was just the return journey from Amsterdam to Newcastle. Previously we had been very happy with the service, accommodation and food provided, but this occasion it was even better. The boarding was easy and efficient, the cabin was clean and comfortable but the food, well it was AMAZING. We dined in their main restaurant and had a truly fine dining experience with each dish tasty, presented well and packed with flavour. The service was exceptional and, coincidentally , we were welcomed into the main seating area by a waiter ( Ronnie) we had when we cruised around South America a few years ago AND, he recognised us, which was just incredible. He , like all the other staff, provided an upmarket service more akin to a cruise style service , which only enhanced our ferry trip. Well done to DFDS for employing great staff and delivering a top notch service. We will try to use this route more often in our travels. Breakfast was also a lovely delight and above the usual offerings elsewhere on a ferry.

Dear DavidC378, Thank you for taking the time to review your recent experience with DFDS onboard our Amsterdam - Newcastle crossing. We are so pleased to read such kind and detailed feedback regarding your journey with us, it's very much valued and appreciated to know you have taken the time to deliver such informative information directly to us, and to our potential new passengers who were looking to travel with us. We pride ourselves on the standard and quality of our Mini Cruise offering and all that we provide onboard, therefore, to read you had a great experience with us really leaves us feeling very positive. We couldn't agree more, our team are assets to our company, and we are very delighted to note they have provided you a great service during your crossing. We look forward to welcoming you back on board again for another great experience! Kind regards, Amiee Customer Experience Specialist

We felt right from the start we were valued customers The cabin was lovely The staff also really helpful and professional We went to the restaurant and it wasn’t enormous and noisy Again the staff were attentive and helpful And the food was excellent Instead of feeling like ‘cattle’ at the airport or a nuisance like you do on PandO ferries this was excellent Normally we access mainland Europe from Hull to Rotterdam but not in the future , we will drive the extra 50 miles to leave from Newcastle on this delightful vessel 10/10

Dear I2014DPlauriem, Thank you for taking the time to review your recent experience with DFDS onboard our Newcastle to Amsterdam crossing. We are so over the moon to read such kind feedback regarding your journey with us, it's very much valued and appreciated to know you have taken the time to deliver such great information directly to us, and to our potential new passengers who were looking to travel with us. We look forward to welcoming you back on board again for another great experience! Kind regards, Amiee Customer Experience Specialist

Cabin not cleaned properly, dirty towels and bed linen, food was VERY poor quality and the same foods were served on outward and return crossings, Chips were the only potato option. Disembarkation was totally unorganised, almost like a stampede, and no social distancing at all. The so called security organising staff just talked among themselves and were VERY rude and abrupt when addressing passengers upon disembarkation

Dear Angela, Thank you for taking the time to rate your experience with DFDS. We would like to discuss your rating and comments further. Please could you contact us at [email protected] Kind regards, Amiee Customer Experience Specialist

How long you get in Amsterdam on a DFDS Mini Cruise from Newcastle

DFDS is offering 50% off Newcastle-Amsterdam Mini Cruises for travel up until March 31, 2023, which include over night trips on the ferry

• 17:05, 9 JAN 2023

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DFDS is offering Amsterdam 'mini cruises' from £37 per person in its January sale.

The cruises depart from Newcastle's port in North Shields in the late afternoon and sail across the North Sea overnight. Passengers arrive in the Netherlands in the late morning and are bussed into Amsterdam before returning to the ship that afternoon and heading back to England.

Ticket prices include a cabin for both legs of the journey. You will have to pay for your own food for the ferry journeys and anything you buy in Amsterdam itself.

Read more: Spain and Greece among summer flights you can book from Newcastle Airport

DFDS is offering 50% off cabins for mini cruises until March 31, if they are booked before February 3, based on two people sharing a cabin.

But how long do you actually get in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has many museums, galleries, and attractions, but you will have to pick carefully to make the most of your time there if you opt to take a mini cruise. And you won't get a chance to sample the nightlife.

In total, you'll get around five hours to explore Amsterdam before you have to board a bus to make your ferry back to Newcastle.

The ferry to Amsterdam departs from North Shields at 5pm daily, with check-in closing at 4.15pm. It takes 16 hours and 45 minutes to sail to Amsterdam, so you spend the night on the ferry and sleep in a cabin.

The ferry arrives in Amsterdam's port, Ijmuiden, at 9.45am (Dutch time) the day after departure. Passengers are taken by coach to Amsterdam City Centre. They depart from 10.15am and take around 30 to 40 minutes, so arrive at roughly 10.45am.

You then have between 10.45am and 3.30pm to explore Amsterdam - that is four hours and 45 minutes. The bus back from Amsterdam City Centre departs at 3.30pm. The ship leaves for Newcastle at 5.30pm and arrives into North Shields at 9.15am the following day.

If you would rather have longer to explore Amsterdam, Holland, the rest of the Netherlands and Europe, you can choose to book ferry crossings departing on the days of your choice. You can also pay to bring bikes and cars on board to use on your trip.

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DFDS Mini Cruise Newcastle to Amsterdam Review

Reviewed by Julie Jessup

I was very excited to be chosen to review the DFDS Mini Cruise from Newcastle to Amsterdam for 2 adults. I asked my travel buddy Anna if she would like to accompany me and of course she was very happy to.

So on Tuesday we were on the train to Newcastle ready for our adventure.

DFDS run their own coach transfers from opposite Newcastle rail station to the port. Transfers take approximately 45 minutes and there is a small charge for this, which you can pay when you book your trip. The coach transfers also take you back on your return day. This makes the start of your journey very stress free. It cuts down the cost of parking a car at the docks and struggling to take your luggage on the metro. The coach drivers both ways were very friendly and helpful.

At the check-in in Newcastle there were some issues with a few customers, not being allocated the correct rooms or being charged for meals they had already paid for. All issues were swiftly and professionally dealt with by the friendly check in staff with no delays to other customers. Check in back at the Dutch Port was straightforward. Just remember if you fancy visiting the well-known special cafes do not bring anything back with you, what might be legal in Holland is not in the U.K.

We were on the 10th floor, so as I have mobility problems we took the lift. There are only 2 main lifts which are always very busy, so be prepared for a bit of a wait. We stayed in a sea view cabin which slept up to 5 people. So for the 2 of us we had plenty of space. I must admit I would find it a little cosy with 5 people. We found the cabin to be relatively clean and the beds comfortable. The bathroom could do with a bit of an upgrade, but it was big enough. As the bathrooms are wet rooms, I would suggest bringing flip flops until the room dries out. The shower head was angled towards the wall so the water ran down the wall rather than on you, so it was impossible to stand directly underneath it. You had to shower whilst holding the head.

The Customer Service Team were located on Deck 7. They were very helpful. You can book tours both ways at a cheaper price. We decided not to do the tours. You could also change currency and buy Wi-Fi. The ship did have various areas with Wi-Fi but I decided to pay 26 Euros for the whole cruise time. If not, it can be a costly experience using your internet which you are warned about.

We were lucky enough to be given a tour of the ship. Our host Dimitrio showed us the luxury cabins, they are amazing just like hotel rooms with all the luxuries. He took us to the Doggy Hotel, I was unaware that this was even on the ship. There are cabins you can take dogs in but if you have booked a cabin you are not able to take your dog in they have what they call the Doggy Hotel with cages for the dogs and visiting times. Also a recent addition has been an extension of the dog walking area with astro turf.

He then showed us the Jail with 3 rooms, interesting to know if there was trouble on board it would be dealt with, but not a room we wanted to stay in.

We were also asked if we would like a trip to the bridge and meet the captain, however this did not happen as it classed with our mealtimes.

On Deck 7 there was also a well-stocked shop, selling alcohol, perfumes, food, tobacco, toys, souvenirs, clothes and more. A lot of items were reduced by 40 per cent. Please remember to take an adapter as the socket on the boat is European. I forgot, but the shop had a plentiful supply.

There is so much to do on the ship to keep you entertained. The children have a play area which does incur a fee. I only saw 2 children in it, I am unsure if it is manned by a member of staff, if so, it was not when I looked.

There is a casino and lots of slot machines and arcade machines. There are also massage chairs, a cinema with a wide variety of films, two bars and a cocktail deck.

During the evenings there were singers on, to be honest, not the greatest so we did not stay to long. You could also play bingo.

As for the food the selection was amazing. The breakfast was buffet style with such an amazing range and very tasty. You had three options during the evening.

The first night we went to the North Sea Bistro with a freshly cooked 3 course menu. I had the most amazing pork with rosemary wedges you could taste every mouthful. They do not have a specific menu for allergies but are able and willing to adapt the dishes. You can prepay for your meals when you book your cruise or as you check in, these are the cheaper options. You have a limit of what you can spend in the North Sea Bistro so be prepared to pay out a little bit more. It is well worth it. The Explorers Kitchen is a world cuisine buffet and has so much food and you can have as much as you want.

Then you have Coffee Brew which serves a range of cakes and Starbucks drinks.

Once we arrived in Amsterdam, we had 5 hours to look around this amazing city. The drop off and pick up point is just outside the Grand Central Station. You have the choice of 2 timings on your return, if you miss the coach then be prepared for a very expensive taxi ride.

There is so much to do that 5 hours is not really enough, but it gives you a feel for the place. I would suggest you research beforehand what you want to do. On the day we went apart from Anne Frank Museum the queues were very small, but that is not always the case.

There was a slight confusion over times as ship time is one hour ahead of U.K. Time and check-in, staff at Newcastle gave us the wrong timings for our evening meals and docking. We did have the correct times on paperwork but this did confuse not just us but other passengers.

We had a wonderful time, we would both recommend this mini cruise and will be using DFDS again but next time for maybe an overnight stay.

DFDS offer a range of trips and tours. They have a fantastic website which explains everything.

We were foot passengers, but you can take your car for a longer trip away. There are so many options.

You certainly would not get bored on this mini cruise and I came home for a rest.

Overall, I am going to award 4/5 stars. This is because of the bathroom and timing issues which could easily be rectified.

Rating: 4/5

2-night Amsterdam mini cruises start from £84 per person (based on two people sharing).

For more information or to make a book visit www.dfdsseaways.co.uk .

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DFDS Seaways Mini Cruises

Our DFDS Seaways minicruise breaks give you the perfect opportunity to combine your travel as a part of your short break! As well as visiting great cities like Amsterdam, you’ll also get to enjoy the delights of everything on board your ship thanks to an array of facilities and entertainment. From amazing value in the Sea Shops, to huge blockbuster movies in the cinema, you’re really spoilt for choice on a DFDS Seaways ferry cruise. There’s even a casino for you to try your luck in. The four restaurants make it easy to find a delicious meal to indulge in, and afterwards you can relax with a drink in the bar while listening to live music.

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AMSTERDAM TO NEWCASTLE MINI CRUISE

A mini cruise to  Newcastle  is a fantastic way to explore this exciting city which offers a brilliant combination of sights to see, shops to visit and restaurants, cafés and bars where you can enjoy a meal or a drink.

Private en suite cabins

Return coach transfers to City Centre

Duty Free shopping

Spend your day in Newcastle

Travel Guarantee - free rebooking on crossings taken before 30 Sept 2023

Live entertainment

Excellent onboard facilities

Daily crossings

Check-in opens

Depart IJmuiden for Newcastle

Arrive in North Shields near Newcastle

First Coach departs for Newcastle city centre

Day at Leisure begins

Coach departs Newcastle for ferry terminal

Depart North Shields for Holland

Breakfast buffet available onboard

Arrive in ​IJmuiden

Two Night Mini Cruise

Your Newcastle mini cruise will give you the chance to savour the city’s grand architecture, cross the famous Millennium Bridge, wander the quayside or enjoy some high-street and designer shopping, the port is just 20 minutes from the city centre.

The onboard facilities include bars, restaurants and more, means your city break begins the moment you step onboard.

Please note: Bus transfers to and from Amsterdam Newcastle are part of the overall cost of the Mini Cruise package. You will be provided your cabin price first and bus transfer prices will then be shown separately.

For more information on pick up times and location of bus transfers please click here

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Spring into savings | Amsterdam mini cruise

Hop onboard this spring with our exciting new offer! Get a fantastic 50% discount on your mini cruise to Amsterdam & don't miss the chance to explore our newly refurbished cabins.

Amsterdam City Break

Discover our Amsterdam hotels and tailor your stay to enjoy the city's rich history, charming streets, world-class museums, and delicious cuisine. Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Amsterdam.

Restaurants Onboard

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.

Onboard Entertainment

There’s a range of bars on our ferries, each with a different atmosphere.

Sit back and enjoy the latest Hollywood blockbusters in our onboard cinemas where you’ll find options for all ages.

Our games area offers hours of fun for kids and adults alike on the crossing from Newcastle to Amsterdam.

Live Performances

There’s plenty to keep you entertained on your journey, including live music and DJ sets to keep you dancing all night.

Family Travel

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

Newcastle Highlights

Newcastle exudes metropolitan cool, offering something for everyone.

Art lovers can peruse the collections at the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art or the Laing Art Gallery and sport fanatics can take a tour of St James’ Park. The Quayside boasts some of the city’s best bars and restaurants and is home to a fantastic Sunday market.

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.