Nordholland Cruises

Nordholland, located in the northwest region of the Netherlands, is a captivating area known for its vibrant tulip fields, historic architecture, and scenic landscapes. With its picturesque canals, charming windmills, and famed cities like Amsterdam and Haarlem, Nordholland presents an idyllic setting for cruising. Fun fact: The Netherlands is home to approximately 1,000 windmills, many of which are located in this region! A cruise to Nordholland is an excellent way to experience its rich culture, stunning scenery, and unique culinary offerings while enjoying the luxurious amenities of your cruise ship.

Major Cruise Lines with Itineraries to Nordholland

• Holland America Line boasts a fleet of 11 ships, with 3 dedicated to itineraries featuring Nordholland. The Nieuw Statendam and Volendam are particularly popular, celebrated for their upscale dining, elegant design, and enriching onboard activities such as cooking classes and wine tastings. The Nieuw Statendam also features a unique Music Walk experience, providing live entertainment for all tastes. Most departures take place from Rotterdam or Amsterdam, ensuring a breezy start to your Dutch adventure.
• Cunard operates 4 lavish ships, with 1 focused on itineraries that take you to Nordholland. The Queen Victoria is known for its classic luxury, featuring grand ballrooms and exquisite dining options that reflect the ship’s dedication to elegance. Departures are most frequent from Southampton or Rome, allowing for a sophisticated setting to embark on your exploration of this enchanting area.
• MSC Cruises includes a fleet of 23 ships, with 3 focused on itineraries visiting Nordholland. The MSC Virtuosa and MSC Poesia are well-loved for their family-friendly amenities and variety of onboard entertainment. The MSC Virtuosa features outdoor spaces with panoramic views and vibrant pools, ensuring a delightful experience for all ages. Most departures occur from Southampton or Rotterdam, making it convenient for families eager to explore the riches of Northern Europe.
• Norwegian Cruise Line boasts a fleet of 20 ships, with 4 visiting Nordholland. The Norwegian Star and Norwegian Dawn stand out for their flexible dining options and diverse entertainment offerings, making your cruise experience truly unforgettable. Most departures occur from Southampton or Reykjavik, providing easy access for your journey to the fascinating landscapes of the Netherlands.
• P&O Cruises features a fleet of 7 ships, with 5 dedicated to itineraries that include Nordholland. The Britannia and Arcadia are renowned for their engaging atmosphere and excellent dining options, ensuring guests enjoy a memorable cruise experience. Departures generally take place from Southampton, providing convenient access for UK passengers seeking to explore the beauty of Nordholland.

Luxury and Small Ship Options to Nordholland

• Oceania Cruises consists of 8 ships, with 2 offering itineraries to Nordholland. The Sirena and Marina are praised for their luxury experience and exceptional culinary offerings, allowing guests to enjoy regional dishes paired with incredible wine. Departures generally occur from Southampton or Amsterdam, facilitating a splendid entry into this enchanting region.
• Azamara Cruises has a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 focused on itineraries that highlight Nordholland. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward provide intimate settings and immersive experiences, often allowing guests to enjoy late-night port stays where they can sample local nightlife and culture. Departures commonly occur from Barcelona or Lisbon, enhancing your overall journey through this charming area.
• Seabourn operates a luxurious fleet of 5 ships, with 1 featuring itineraries through Nordholland. The Seabourn Ovation is recognised for its all-inclusive offerings and exceptional service, providing a soothing atmosphere for guests. Most departures take place from London or Hamburg, allowing for a stylish commencement to your Dutch cruising experience.
• Explora Journeys operates a fleet of 2 ships, both offering itineraries that include Nordholland. The EXPLORA I and II focus on luxury experiences alongside wellness programmes, ensuring a relaxed experience for every guest. Departures usually occur from Amsterdam or Rome, seamlessly transitioning you into your exploration of this beautiful region.
• Fred Olsen consists of a fleet of 3 ships, with 2 offering itineraries to Nordholland. The Balmoral and Bolette are treasured for their welcoming environment and classic cruising experience, perfect for those seeking a more intimate journey. Most departures typically occur from Southampton or Newcastle upon Tyne, creating a simple embarkation point for UK travellers.

Top Harbours to Explore in the Yucatán Peninsula

• Amsterdam – The capital city is known for its famous canals, vibrant museum scene, and rich history. Explore the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh Museum, stroll through the historic Jordaan neighbourhood, and enjoy cycling along the canals. Don’t miss trying local delicacies like stroopwafels from a local vendor while you’re here!
• Rotterdam – Known for its modern architecture, Rotterdam offers a vibrant urban landscape filled with entertainment and cultural experiences. Visit the iconic Markthal for an exceptional food experience or take a stroll along the Wilhelmina Pier for stunning views of the city skyline. The Maritime Museum showcases the city’s rich history in shipping and trade.
• Utrecht – This charming city with its picturesque canals is perfect for a leisurely exploration. Visit the iconic Dom Tower, wander through the winding streets of the old town, or take a boat ride along the canals. Utrecht is also known for its museums and vibrant café culture, offering visitors a lively atmosphere.
• Haarlem – Renowned for its historic architecture and vibrant arts scene, Haarlem invites visitors to explore its beautiful Groene Passage and visit the Frans Hals Museum for stunning artwork. Experience local shopping and take time to enjoy a classic Dutch pancake in one of Haarlem’s quaint restaurants.
• Leiden – The birthplace of the renowned painter Rembrandt, Leiden offers a wealth of history and picturesque canals. Explore the beautiful botanical gardens at the University of Leiden or take a leisurely bike ride through the scenic countryside. Be sure to sample local brews at nearby cafes while you soak in the atmosphere of this charming city.

Best Times to Cruise to Nordholland

The climate in Nordholland is maritime, providing a pleasant atmosphere to cruise throughout the year. From January to March, temperatures typically range from 0°C to 10°C, making it ideal for low crowds and indoor cultural activities. Spring (April to June) brings milder temperatures of around 10°C to 20°C, creating a wonderful environment for outdoor adventures and blooming flowers. Summer months (July to September) are comfortable and lively, often reaching temperatures from 20°C to 25°C, making it perfect for exploring coastal areas and gardens. Autumn (October to December) cools down to around 5°C to 15°C; this is a lovely time to admire stunning foliage and enjoy local harvest festivals.

Costs of Cruising to Nordholland

A typical one-week cruise visiting Nordholland usually costs between £700 and £1,500, depending on the cruise line and types of accommodations. Luxury options typically start at around £3,000, and prices may increase based on service levels and available amenities. When dining onshore, plan to spend about £10 to £25 for meals at local restaurants, while beverages typically cost between £3 and £8, allowing you to indulge in the delightful Dutch cuisine during your stay.

The scenic beauty, rich culture, and historical charm of Nordholland await your exploration. Now is the time to book your cruise holiday through Cruise1st and set sail for an unforgettable journey through this alluring region!