Amsterdam is one of the most iconic European cruise departure cities, known for its culture, canals, tulip fields, windmills, and easy connectivity across Europe. Many travelers choose Amsterdam as a starting point for cruises because it combines history, coastal access, and proximity to popular European destinations. From Northern Europe to Iceland, from Norwegian fjords to the Baltics, the port of Amsterdam offers diverse itineraries that suit every type of traveler.

This in-depth guide explores all cruises that start from Amsterdam, major cruise lines, destinations, itineraries, ship offerings, best seasons to sail, port transportation, embarkation tips, and advice for planning the perfect cruise holiday.

Why Amsterdam is a Popular Cruise Departure Port

Amsterdam is more than a scenic European capital—it is a gateway to impressive sailing routes. People choose Amsterdam for multiple reasons, including ease of travel, world-class airport connectivity, and proximity to historic and natural wonders. Whether you love breathtaking fjords, Arctic landscapes, castle-lined rivers, or modern urban ports, Amsterdam serves as a central launch point.

Key highlights that make Amsterdam ideal for cruise departures include:

• Easy flight connections through Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)

• Iconic canals and cultural attractions for pre-cruise stays

• Access to Northern Europe, Iceland, Baltic Sea, British Isles

• Pleasant summer climate perfect for sightseeing

• Multiple cruise lines and itinerary options year-round

Cruise passengers often extend their vacation with hotel stays, day trips, and local tours, which makes Amsterdam a perfect starting city.

Cruise Lines That Operate from Amsterdam

Amsterdam is home to several well-known cruise brands. Some operate seasonally while others depart regularly throughout the year.

Below is a breakdown of the top cruise lines offering Amsterdam departures.

Royal Caribbean Cruises from Amsterdam

Royal Caribbean offers seasonal itineraries mainly focused on Northern Europe. These sailings usually operate between May and September, capitalizing on the mild weather and extended daylight.

Popular Royal Caribbean destinations from Amsterdam:

• Norwegian Fjords

• British Isles

• Iceland and Arctic routes

• Northern Europe coastal cities

Passengers can enjoy large ships, onboard entertainment, Broadway-style shows, and adventure activities.

Celebrity Cruises Itineraries from Amsterdam

Celebrity focuses on premium, upscale cruising with gourmet dining, elegant lounges, and modern luxury ships. Amsterdam departures cover scenic nature-focused routes, perfect for travelers seeking relaxation and photography opportunities.

Common Celebrity cruise itineraries include:

• Iceland and Greenland explorer routes

• Baltic Sea Capitals

• Scandinavia voyages

• Norwegian Fjords immersion sailings

These cruises often include scenic cruising days, ideal for passengers who enjoy watching dramatic landscapes from the deck.

Holland America Line – Amsterdam’s Most Historically Linked Cruise Brand

Holland America has a deep connection with Amsterdam, as the company was originally founded in the Netherlands. Their ships frequently depart from Amsterdam, making it one of the line’s most active European homeports.

Holland America itineraries from Amsterdam feature:

• Baltic Capitals including Tallinn, Stockholm, Copenhagen

• Norwegian Fjords round-trip journeys

• Scottish Highlands and UK coastal cities

• Extended Arctic and Greenland expeditions

This cruise line is popular among culture-seekers, history lovers, and older travelers.

MSC Cruises Departures from Amsterdam

MSC Cruises is known for affordability and modern ship experiences, offering great value for families and large groups.

MSC Amsterdam itineraries typically include:

• British Isles and Ireland

• Norwegian Fjord circuits

• North Europe exploration routes

These cruises offer multi-lingual entertainment, vibrant nightlife, and Mediterranean-style dining.

Princess Cruises from Amsterdam

Princess Cruises is another popular departure option, especially for longer voyages and scenic sailing routes.

Princess itineraries often include:

• Scandinavia and Baltic cities

• Iceland and Arctic Circle

• Grand Voyages combining Nordic + British Isles destinations

Princess is an ideal choice for travelers who enjoy enrichment lectures, local food experiences, and relaxing sea days.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) Routes from Amsterdam

NCL offers casual, freestyle cruising with flexible dining and nightlife. Their Amsterdam itineraries are diverse, spanning both short trips and longer arctic journeys.

NCL Amsterdam itineraries may include:

• Scandinavia city-focused cruises

• Svalbard and Arctic Circle destinations

• Long Iceland explorer journeys

These cruises are perfect for younger travelers, families, and couples seeking nightlife and onboard entertainment.

Disney Cruises from Amsterdam (Limited Seasonal Sailings)

Disney Cruise Line occasionally operates select summer itineraries from Amsterdam, primarily targeting families with children.

Disney Amsterdam cruises may include:

• Norwegian nature voyages

• British Isles + Edinburgh routes

• Magical European family itineraries

These ships feature character meet-and-greets, themed shows, and family-friendly cabins.

River Cruises that Depart from Amsterdam

Amsterdam is also one of the most important river cruise departure hubs in Europe. Ocean cruises sail to external coasts, while river cruises glide through scenic inland landscapes.

Top river cruise operators include:

• Viking River Cruises

• AmaWaterways

• Avalon Waterways

• Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

• Scenic Luxury River Cruises

Popular Amsterdam river cruise routes:

• Rhine River to Basel or Switzerland

• Moselle River Wine Valley

• Danube River connections via Germany

River cruises offer charming village stops, wine tastings, castle tours, and intimate ship experiences.

Popular Destinations for Cruises from Amsterdam

From Amsterdam, travelers can visit several iconic cruise destinations. Each route offers unique scenery, culture, and climate.

Key regions include:

Norwegian Fjords Cruises from Amsterdam

One of the most popular routes, fjord cruises offer waterfalls, cliff walls, blue waters, and mountain scenery. Typical ports include:

• Geiranger

• Flam

• Bergen

• Stavanger

Sailing season: May–September

Baltic Sea and Scandinavia Cruises

Baltic routes are culturally rich and perfect for history lovers.

Ports may include:

• Tallinn, Estonia

• Copenhagen, Denmark

• Stockholm, Sweden

• Helsinki, Finland

• St. Petersburg, Russia (depending on current restrictions)

Travelers enjoy museums, castles, architecture, and medieval old towns.

British Isles Cruises from Amsterdam

Explore the UK and Ireland on a slow-paced, scenic journey across the North.

Possible stops:

• Edinburgh, Scotland

• Dublin, Ireland

• Belfast, Northern Ireland

• London (via Southampton)

These itineraries showcase cliffs, castles, gardens, and Celtic culture.

Iceland and Arctic Cruises from Amsterdam

For adventure travelers and nature lovers, Iceland routes offer dramatic landscapes and wildlife.

Common ports:

• Reykjavik

• Akureyri

• Isafjordur

• Faroe Islands (on extended itineraries)

Some cruises also cross the Arctic Circle during peak summer.

Best Time of Year to Cruise from Amsterdam

The ideal cruise season depends on your chosen destination. However, most northern routes operate during warmer months.

Best cruise months:

MonthBest For

MaySpring sailings, tulip season

JuneMidnight sun, Arctic voyages

JulyWarmest weather, fjords peak

AugustIceland + British Isles

SeptemberFewer crowds, scenic color shifts

Winter cruises are rare, except river cruises and repositioning voyages.

Port of Amsterdam – Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA) Guide

Most ocean cruise ships depart from Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA). River cruises often depart from multiple docking points along the canal edges.

Key port details:

• Address: Piet Heinkade 27, 1019 BR Amsterdam

• Distance from Schiphol Airport: 25–30 minutes by taxi

• Near Amsterdam Centraal Station (walkable ~15 minutes)

The terminal features check-in counters, seating, cafés, taxis, and luggage assistance.

Transportation to the Cruise Port

Getting to the port is simple and traveler-friendly.

Transportation options:

• Train directly to Amsterdam Centraal, then walk or take tram

• Taxi or Uber from airport (~€40–60)

• Shuttle services by select cruise lines

• Public trams and buses with luggage space

Advance transfers are recommended on busy summer days.

Hotels Near the Cruise Port

Many travelers prefer arriving 1–2 days before sailing to enjoy the city and avoid flight delays.

Top hotel choices near PTA:

• Movenpick Hotel Amsterdam City Centre (closest to port)

• Hampton by Hilton City Centre East

• Amrath Hotel

• DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station

Pre-cruise purchases like SIM cards, toiletries, and snacks are easily accessible nearby.

Things to Do in Amsterdam Before Your Cruise

Amsterdam offers endless activities for pre-cruise exploration.

Must-visit attractions:

• Anne Frank House

• Van Gogh Museum

• Canal boating tours

• Rijksmuseum and Dam Square

• Windmill and Tulip Garden Trips

• Heineken Experience

A full day or two enhances your cruise experience.

Best Tips for Booking Cruises from Amsterdam

To save money, plan smartly:

• Book 8–12 months early for best pricing

• Travel in May or September for lower fares

• Look for repositioning cruises for discounts

• Use loyalty programs for cabin upgrades

• Consider river + ocean sailing combinations

Early planning ensures availability for popular summer routes.

Conclusion

Amsterdam is one of the most extraordinary cruise departure ports in Europe. With routes spanning the Norwegian fjords, Iceland, Baltic capitals, British Isles, and scenic river waterways, travelers enjoy limitless possibilities. Whether you prefer luxury ocean liners, family-friendly ships, or quiet river cruises, Amsterdam offers something for every style and budget.

From port details to cruise lines, itineraries to destinations, this guide provides everything you need to confidently choose which cruises start from Amsterdam and plan an unforgettable European journey.