Which cruises start from Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most important cruise hubs, serving as a gateway to Northern Europe, the British Isles, the Baltic Sea, and transatlantic crossings. Thanks to its world-class port infrastructure, excellent rail and air connections, and proximity to iconic European destinations, Amsterdam attracts major ocean and river cruise lines year after year.This in-depth guide answers a common traveler question: Which cruises start from Amsterdam? It provides accurate, experience-based insights into cruise lines, itineraries, best seasons, port logistics, and planning tips—backed by official sources and trusted travel authorities.

Why Amsterdam Is a Major Cruise Departure Port

Amsterdam’s popularity as a cruise embarkation port is no accident. The city combines logistical efficiency with strong tourist appeal.

Key Advantages of Cruising From Amsterdam

• Port of Amsterdam (Passenger Terminal Amsterdam – PTA) is centrally located near Amsterdam Centraal Station

• Schiphol Airport (AMS) offers direct flights to 300+ global destinations

• Easy rail access from Belgium, France, Germany, and the UK

• Strong infrastructure for both ocean cruises and river cruises

• Popular pre- and post-cruise tourism (museums, canals, UNESCO sites)

According to the Port of Amsterdam Authority, the city handles hundreds of cruise calls annually, making it one of Northern Europe’s busiest passenger ports.

Source: Port of Amsterdam – official port data

Major Cruise Lines That Start Cruises From Amsterdam

Several internationally recognized cruise lines operate departures from Amsterdam, primarily between April and October.

Ocean Cruise Lines Departing From Amsterdam

1. Holland America Line (HAL)

Holland America Line is the most prominent cruise operator sailing from Amsterdam, reflecting its Dutch heritage.

Typical Itineraries:

• British Isles (UK & Ireland)

• Baltic Sea (Norway, Sweden, Finland, Estonia)

• Iceland & Greenland

• Norwegian Fjords

• Transatlantic crossings to the USA

Common Ships:

• Nieuw Statendam

• Rotterdam

Why Choose HAL?

• Mid-sized ships with premium dining

• Strong enrichment programs

• Excellent reputation for Northern Europe itineraries

Source: Holland America Line official website

2. Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises offers upscale sailings from Amsterdam during the European summer.

Typical Itineraries:

• Norwegian Fjords

• British Isles

• Northern Europe capitals

Notable Ships:

• Celebrity Apex

• Celebrity Silhouette

Best For: Modern luxury seekers, couples, food-focused travelers

3. Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises occasionally offers one-way or repositioning cruises from Amsterdam.

Itineraries Include:

• Northern Europe

• Transatlantic sailings

• Baltic capitals

Best For: Traditional cruising with strong destination focus

4. Norwegian Cruise Line (Limited)

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has limited seasonal departures from Amsterdam, mostly repositioning voyages.

Best For: Flexible dining, casual atmosphere, younger travelers

Comparison Table: Ocean Cruise Lines From Amsterdam

Cruise Line	Typical Duration	Destinations	Ship Style
Holland America Line	7–21 nights	Baltic, Fjords, Transatlantic	Premium
Celebrity Cruises	7–14 nights	Fjords, British Isles	Modern luxury
Princess Cruises	10–21 nights	Northern Europe, Atlantic	Classic
Norwegian Cruise Line	7–14 nights	Select Europe routes	Casual

River Cruises Starting From Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of Europe’s top river cruise embarkation cities, particularly for Rhine and Danube routes.

Leading River Cruise Companies

1. Viking River Cruises

Viking is the most recognized river cruise operator sailing from Amsterdam.

Popular Routes:

• Amsterdam to Basel (Rhine Getaway)

• Amsterdam to Budapest (Grand European Tour)

Why Viking Stands Out:

• Adults-only atmosphere

• Cultural immersion

• Included shore excursions

2. AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways offers premium river cruises with flexible excursion options.

Highlights:

• Wine-focused itineraries

• Active excursions (cycling, hiking)

• Excellent culinary reputation

3. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Uniworld is known for ultra-luxury river cruising.

Best For:

• All-inclusive experiences

• Boutique ship design

• High staff-to-guest ratio

4. Avalon Waterways

Avalon emphasizes panoramic suites and relaxed cruising.

Comparison Table: River Cruises From Amsterdam

Cruise Line	Route Type	Ideal For	Luxury Level
Viking	Rhine & Danube	Cultural travelers	Premium
AmaWaterways	Rhine & specialty cruises	Food & wine lovers	Premium
Uniworld	Rhine	Luxury seekers	Ultra-luxury
Avalon	Rhine	Scenic cruising	Upper-premium

Popular Cruise Itineraries From Amsterdam

1. British Isles Cruises

Ports Often Include:

• Dover (London)

• Edinburgh

• Belfast

• Dublin

• Liverpool

Why Popular: English-speaking destinations, history, scenic coastlines

2. Baltic Sea Cruises

Common Stops:

• Copenhagen

• Stockholm

• Helsinki

• Tallinn

• Kiel or Warnemünde (Berlin)

Best Time: June–August (long daylight hours)

3. Norwegian Fjords Cruises

Highlights:

• Geiranger

• Flam

• Bergen

• Stavanger

Why They Sell Out Fast: Dramatic scenery and mild summer weather

4. Transatlantic Cruises

Amsterdam is a key departure port for one-way transatlantic crossings, often ending in New York or Fort Lauderdale.

Best Time of Year for Cruises From Amsterdam

Peak Cruise Season: May–September

• Best weather

• Long daylight hours

• Higher prices

Shoulder Season: April & October

• Fewer crowds

• Cooler temperatures

• Better deals

Based on data from the UK Met Office and European climate studies, summer offers the most reliable conditions for Northern European cruising.

Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA): What to Know

Location & Access

• Walking distance from Amsterdam Centraal

• Taxi ride from Schiphol: ~25 minutes

• Excellent public transport connections

Terminal Facilities

• Luggage handling

• Customs & immigration

• Accessible boarding facilities

Source: Passenger Terminal Amsterdam official portal

Step-by-Step: How to Plan a Cruise From Amsterdam

Step 1: Choose Cruise Type

• Ocean cruise vs. river cruise

Step 2: Pick the Right Season

• Fjords → summer

• Transatlantic → spring/fall

Step 3: Book Flights Early

• Schiphol is busy in summer

• Arrive at least one day before sailing

Step 4: Plan Pre-Cruise Stay

• 2–3 days recommended

• Visit Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, canal cruises

Step 5: Check Visa & Health Requirements

• Schengen visa (if applicable)

• Follow CDC and WHO travel guidance

Sources:

• CDC Travelers’ Health

• WHO International Travel Guidance

• Dutch Government immigration portal

Health, Safety, and Travel Regulations

Cruise passengers departing from Amsterdam must comply with:

• Schengen entry rules

• Passport validity (usually 6 months recommended)

• Cruise line vaccination or health protocols (if applicable)

Based on publicly available information, there is no confirmed data on permanent health mandates for cruises departing from Amsterdam beyond standard EU regulations.

Pros and Cons of Starting a Cruise From Amsterdam

Pros

• Excellent air and rail connectivity

• Wide range of itineraries

• English widely spoken

• Strong cruise infrastructure

Cons

• Busy during peak summer

• Higher hotel prices

• Limited winter departures

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Which cruise lines regularly depart from Amsterdam?

Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, and major river cruise operators like Viking and AmaWaterways.

2. Are cruises from Amsterdam year-round?

No. Most ocean cruises operate April–October. River cruises run longer seasons.

3. Is Amsterdam better for river or ocean cruises?

Amsterdam excels at both, but it is Europe’s top river cruise hub.

4. How far is the cruise terminal from Schiphol Airport?

Approximately 20–25 minutes by taxi or train.

5. Do I need a visa to start a cruise from Amsterdam?

Non-EU travelers may need a Schengen visa. Check with the Dutch government portal.

6. What are the most popular destinations from Amsterdam?

Norwegian Fjords, Baltic capitals, British Isles, Rhine River.

7. Are transatlantic cruises available from Amsterdam?

Yes, primarily with Holland America Line and Princess Cruises.

8. Is Amsterdam suitable for first-time cruisers?

Yes. Clear signage, English fluency, and efficient port operations make it beginner-friendly.

9. How early should I arrive before embarkation?

Arrive at least one day early to avoid flight delays.

10. Are cruises from Amsterdam family-friendly?

Yes, especially with Holland America Line and Princess Cruises, though river cruises are more adult-focused.

Final Thoughts: Is Amsterdam a Good Cruise Departure Port?

From an expert travel and cruise planning perspective, Amsterdam is one of Europe’s best cruise departure cities. It offers unmatched access to Northern Europe, excellent infrastructure, and a wide choice of premium ocean and river cruise lines.

Whether you’re planning a scenic fjords voyage, a cultural Baltic journey, or a relaxed Rhine river cruise, Amsterdam provides a reliable, enjoyable, and efficient starting point—trusted by major cruise brands and millions of travelers each year.