Netherlands Cruises

The Netherlands, a country famed for its picturesque canals, vibrant tulip fields, and renowned art scenes, offers endless wonders for every type of cruiser. With a rich history, charming cities like Amsterdam and Utrecht, and breathtaking landscapes, a cruise to the Netherlands allows you to experience the country’s remarkable culture and natural beauty. Fun fact: The Netherlands is known as the land of water, as one-quarter of the country lies below sea level and it has over 4,000 km of navigable waterways. Cruising provides an excellent opportunity to explore multiple destinations in this captivating region, all while enjoying the luxurious accommodations and amenities of your ship.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to the Netherlands

• Holland America Line operates a fleet of 11 ships, with 4 dedicated to routes that include the Netherlands. The Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam are particularly popular, known for their elegant décor and enriching onboard experiences. These ships often provide immersive cultural activities, such as local cuisine cooking classes. Departures primarily occur from Rotterdam or London (Dover), providing convenient access to the highlights of Dutch culture and scenery.
• Cunard features a fleet of 4 luxury ships, with 3 offering itineraries visiting the Netherlands. The Queen Anne and Queen Victoria exemplify the quintessence of classic ocean liners, boasting elegant interiors and gastronomic dining options. Cunard’s emphasis on refinement, including traditional afternoon tea, makes trips on these ships memorable. Departures often take place from Southampton or Hamburg, ensuring a smooth route into the Netherlands.
• MSC Cruises has a fleet size of 23, with 3 ships focusing on the Netherlands. The MSC Preziosa and MSC Poesia are notable, offering entertaining shows and a variety of dining options that highlight international cuisine. Both ships are equipped with splendid amenities including pools and wellness facilities. Departures usually occur from Southampton or Rotterdam, allowing great flexibility for planning your cruise itinerary.
• Norwegian Cruise Line operates a fleet of 20 ships, with 4 featuring itineraries that include the Netherlands. The Norwegian Star and Norwegian Dawn stand out for their freestyle cruising concept, providing flexible dining and entertainment options. These cruises often depart from Southampton or Reykjavik, making for a vibrant introduction to the Dutch experience.
• P&O Cruises operates 7 ships, with 5 providing itineraries to the Netherlands. The Azura and Iona are especially popular for their wide range of onboard activities and diverse culinary experiences. Featuring options for fine dining as well as casual settings, passengers will find themselves well catered to. Departures are typically from Southampton or Santa Cruz de Tenerife, creating easy entry points into the scenic Dutch landscape.

Luxury and Small Ship Options in the Netherlands

• Oceania Cruises operates a fleet of 8 ships, with 2 that feature itineraries to the Netherlands. The Marina and Sirena are well-loved for their luxurious onboard experiences and exceptional cuisine, showcasing local flavours from the ports visited. These elegant ships typically depart from ports like Miami or Rome, ensuring a comfortable journey to discover the beauty of the Netherlands.
• Azamara Cruises boasts a fleet of 4 ships, with 3 dedicated to itineraries along the Dutch waterways. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward are known for providing unique immersive destination experiences, often featuring late-night port stays. Most departures occur from Lisbon or Stockhol, providing convenient access to the rich tapestry of the Netherlands.
• Seabourn offers an upscale fleet of 5 ships, with 1 featuring itineraries to the Netherlands. The Seabourn Ovation stands out for its all-inclusive luxury and exceptional service, ensuring a unique and intimate cruise experience. Departures primarily take place from London or Reykjavik, creating a regal beginning to your Dutch voyage.
• Explora Journeys consists of 2 ships, both offering itineraries featuring the Netherlands. The EXPLORA I and II are recognised for their focus on luxurious experiences and wellness, promising relaxation and indulgence throughout the journey. Departures usually occur from Barcelona or Miami, facilitating elegant access to this enchanting region of Europe.
• Fred Olsen operates a small fleet of 3 ships, with 2 that offer itineraries including the Netherlands. The Balmoral and Bolette are appreciated for their classic cruising experience and personal touch. Departures typically occur from Liverpool or Southampton, ensuring easy access for UK guests excited to discover all the Netherlands has to offer.

Top Harbours to Explore in the Netherlands

• Amsterdam – The capital city is famous for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Visit the iconic Rijksmuseum or the Anne Frank House, and enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the canals. The bustling flower markets and local cafes offer a chance to indulge in traditional Dutch treats like stroopwafels.
• Rotterdam – Known for its modern architecture and innovative design, Rotterdam is an exciting city to explore. Visit the iconic Markthal for fresh produce and local delicacies, and take a walk through the bustling city centre. The maritime heritage in the harbour area is a captivating experience for history enthusiasts.
• Utrecht – Utrecht’s medieval city centre boasts charming canals and unique wharf cellars that now house cafés and shops. Explore the Dom Tower for stunning views of the city or visit the Centraal Museum to discover the local art scene. This city offers a more relaxed pace compared to the busier Amsterdam.
• Haarlem – Known for its historical architecture and vibrant arts culture, Haarlem is a fantastic destination for visitors. Explore the beautiful Grote Markt, home to the stunning St. Bavo’s Church, or visit the Frans Hals Museum to see works by the Dutch master. Haarlem’s charming shops and eateries offer ample opportunity for exploration.
• Leiden – This historic city is known for its esteemed university and picturesque canals. Wander through the botanical gardens or explore the ancient architecture of the city centre. The National Museum of Antiquities will fascinate history buffs with its extensive collection from the ancient world.

When to Cruise to the Netherlands

The Netherlands experiences a temperate maritime climate, offering charming cruising experiences in every season. From January to March, winter reigns with chilly temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C, perfect for low tourist crowds and indoor cultural activities. In spring (April to June), temperatures rise to a lovely range of 10°C to 20°C, bringing blooms of tulips and vibrant festivals to the region. Summer months (July to September) are warm and lively, with typical temperatures of 20°C to 25°C, making it perfect for outdoor exploration. Autumn (October to December) sees temperatures cool down to approximately 5°C to 15°C and offers beautiful changing leaves in the city parks and traditional holiday decorations.

Costs of Cruising to the Netherlands

A one-week cruise to the Netherlands generally ranges from £700 to £1,500 depending on the cruise line and type of accommodations available. Luxury cruises typically start from around £3,000, increasing based on your desired level of service and amenities. When in the Netherlands, you can expect to spend around £10 to £25 for meals at local restaurants, while drinks usually cost around £3 to £8, allowing you to enjoy the rich culinary scene during your journey.

With its captivating culture, stunning architecture, and unique landscapes, the Netherlands is a destination you won’t want to miss. It’s time to book your cruise holiday through Cruise1st and embark on an inspiring adventure through this enchanting region!