Cheap Amsterdam to Scotland Ferry Routes & Schedule – Compare Prices and Book Tickets for your Trip from Amsterdam to Scotland

Everything You Need to Know About Sailing from Amsterdam to Scotland

If you’re looking to travel between the vibrant city of Amsterdam and the historic landscapes of Scotland, sailing by ferry can be a scenic and relaxing way to make the journey. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll reveal all the details you need to know to plan a smooth ferry trip from Amsterdam to Scotland, answering common questions travelers have about routes, schedules, costs, and what to expect along the way.

Available Ferry Routes

There are currently two main ferry routes that offer service between Amsterdam and Scotland:

1. Amsterdam to Newcastle – This popular 1-day route sails from Amsterdam to the English port city of Newcastle upon Tyne. It’s operated by DFDS Seaways and travels through the North Sea.
2. Amsterdam to Rosyth – This 2-day route departs from Amsterdam and heads to the Scottish port of Rosyth, near Edinburgh. It’s run by DFDS Seaways and offers an overnight stay on the ship as it cruises through the North Sea and past the east coast of England.

From Newcastle or Rosyth in Scotland, you can then make easy onward connections by rail or bus to reach other parts of Scotland like Glasgow or the Scottish Highlands.

Sailing Schedules and Duration

Sailing schedules and journey durations vary depending on which ferry route you take:

• Amsterdam to Newcastle – Sailings operate daily. The overnight voyage takes approximately 19 hours. Departure times from Amsterdam range from late afternoon to early evening.
• Amsterdam to Rosyth – This route operates 2-3 times per week. The 2-day crossing allows plenty of time to relax on board as you sail overnight on Day 1 and arrive in Scotland on the morning of Day 2 after around 30 hours of travel.

It’s best to check the specific schedules on the ferry operator’s website well in advance to find suitable sailings for your travel dates.

Ferry Cabin and Ticket Options

When booking your ferry trip, you’ll need to select from various cabin and ticket types to suit your needs and budget. Here are the main options:

1. Cabin Type – Choices range from basic inside cabins to larger outside cabins with windows or balconies. Cabin grades vary in amenities and price.
2. Vehicle Space – If bringing a car, motorhome or other vehicle, you’ll need to book vehicle passage in addition to cabins.
3. Flexi Ticket – Less expensive basic fare allows changes if plans change. Recommended for flexibility.
4. Fixed Ticket – Locks in the lowest rate but changes incur fees. Best for fixed travel dates.

Walking-on passengers without a vehicle can often find good last-minute deals, but booking cabins and vehicle berths well in advance is usually cheaper.

Costs for the Amsterdam to Scotland Ferry

Ferry ticket prices vary depending on travel dates, cabin type, number of passengers, and if bringing a vehicle. But here are some general cost guidelines:

• Cabin for 1-2 Passengers – Expect to pay around €250-450 per cabin for the Amsterdam-Newcastle route, or €300-600 for Amsterdam-Rosyth including meals
• Car & Cabin Package – Taking a vehicle increases costs. Plan on €500-900 for a car and two people on the shorter route.
• Additional Passengers – Each extra passenger after two adults incurs surcharges of around €75-150 one-way.
• Discounts – Savings possible for early booking, multi-trip tickets for families, seniors or passengers under 25/30.

Overall ferry travel works out to be a competitive price versus flying once you factor in transfers and baggage costs.

What to Expect on the Ferry Trip

Taking the ferry from Amsterdam to Scotland offers passengers unique experiences versus other transportation methods.

1. Onboard Activities – Entertain yourself with movies, games, casinos or relaxed lounging on deck weather permitting. Many ferries have restaurants, shops and kid’s play areas too.
2. Overnight in Your Cabin – Get cozy for the long journey on the Rosyth route. Bring any desired amenities like food, books or electronics to keep yourself occupied.
3. Scenic Views – Depending on weather, take in beautiful offshore scenery as you cruise past the English coastline or across the busy North Sea. Wildlife spotting is also possible.
4. Meals Included – Most routes provide full cooked breakfasts and dinners in the onboard restaurants. Drinks and snacks are extra.

Journeying by ferry lets you relax and enjoy the trip as much as the destination. Be sure to get enough rest too as North Sea crossings can sometimes involve choppy conditions.

Other Tips for Your Amsterdam to Scotland Ferry Trip

Here are a few last pieces of advice to help everything go smoothly:

1. Book Early – Sign up for sailings at least 2-3 months ahead for best cabin and ticket selection.
2. Check-in at Least 30 Mins Early – Give yourself plenty of time at the terminals for security, boarding and finding your cabin.
3. Pack Light and Gate-Check Luggage – Carry on just one bag and stow heavier things to leave your hands free.
4. Bring Snacks, Entertainment, Chargers – Ferry rides can involve long stretches between mealtimes so plan accordingly.
5. Consider Car Rental on Arrival – Having your own transport opens up Scotland to explore all areas.

I hope this comprehensive guide has answered all your questions about taking the scenic ferry route from Amsterdam to Scotland. Bon voyage and enjoy the journey! Let me know if you need any other travel tips.

Amsterdam to Scotland Ferry Options

Operator	Route	Sailings Per Week	average Journey Time
DFDS Seaways	Amsterdam to Newcastle	Daily	28 hours
NorthLink Ferries	Amsterdam to Aberdeen	Twice weekly	48 hours
P&O Ferries	Amsterdam to Hull	3 per week	28 hours
Stena Line	Amsterdam to Harwich	Daily	24 hours
Norfolkline	Amsterdam to Geldermalsen	Daily	10 hours

FAQ

1. How long does the ferry ride from Amsterdam to Scotland take?

   The ferry ride typically takes about 20 hours depending on which port you depart from and arrive at. Basically the crossing goes from Amsterdam to Newcastle, which is located in northeast England. From there you’d still have a bit of a drive if continuing on to Scotland.

2. What routes are available between Amsterdam and Scotland?

   There are two main ferry routes from Amsterdam to Scotland. One goes from Amsterdam to Newcastle in England, operated by DFDS Seaways. The other travels from Amsterdam to Rosyth near Edinburgh, Scotland which is operated by Northlink Ferries. At the same time, some folks take the ferry to Harwich in England and then drive up to Scotland that way.

   

3. How much do tickets typically cost for the ferry?

   Ticket prices can vary depending on cabin type, vehicle size, and time of year. Nevertheless, you can generally expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $400 per passenger for a standard cabin. Vehicle rates tend to range from $100 to $300 depending on length. According to travel experts, booking in advance is sort of the way to get the best deal.

4. What amenities are available on the ferries?

   The ferries offer a variety of amenities to make the long trip more comfortable. You’ll find restaurants, cafes, bars, lounges, shops, and play areas for kids. Some ships even have movie theaters, casinos, and spas. Seated dining is included with tickets. Cabins come in different styles from basic to deluxe with shower. Amazingly, wifi is available ship-wide for a fee.

5. How is traveling with a vehicle on the ferries?

   Both ferry companies take vehicles ranging from small cars to large motorhomes and trucks. Upon boarding, you drive straight onto the car deck and park in your assigned space. During the crossing, you can mostly relax in your vehicle or socialize in passenger areas. When arriving, you simply drive back off again! It’s a pretty straightforward option for those transporting their wheels.

6. Is it easy to take my bike on the ferry too?

   Yes, bikes are very welcome aboard. Bike racks are provided on the car decks to securely stash your bicycle for the voyage. The fee is reasonably priced at around 15 to 30 Euros each way. On sunny days, folks occasionally rode around the exterior decks which looks breathtaking I’d imagine. So pedal-power travelers have good accommodations for the crossings.

7. What are some tips for preparing for the ferry trip?

   Good pointers for the ferry ride include: bringing snacks and drinks, downloading movies on your device, wearing comfy clothes, packing motion sickness pills “just in case,” fully charging electronics, and don’t forget passports! Strongly consider booking in advance during peak season. Overall, with a little forward planning the relaxed ferry is a fun way to travel between Amsterdam and ports in England or Scotland.