From Norway to the Netherlands
Not too long ago, there was a splendid direct connection from Norway to the Netherlands. Unfortunately, this direct Kristiansand-Eemshaven route no longer exists. The best alternatives for this route are Oslo-Kiel and Kristiansand-Hirtshals.
- The luxurious ferry from Oslo to Kiel and then drive (about 5 hours) from Kiel to the Netherlands.
- The fast ferry from Kristiansand to Hirtshals and finally drive from Kristiansand to the Netherlands. (this drive takes about 10 hours)
Ferry routes that facilitate your journey to Holland
There is no direct ferry crossing from Norway to the Netherlands. The longest ferry journey you can take towards the Netherlands is the Oslo-Kiel route. From Kiel, you can reach the Dutch border in 4 to 4.5 hours by car. This is a very luxurious ferry and a delightful journey to embark on, especially if you live around Oslo or to the north of it. It can be a logical choice for a pleasant trip. Unfortunately, due to the overnight stay and distance, this ferry can be quite expensive.
A more budget-friendly alternative is to book a ferry from Kristiansand or Larvik to the northern part of Denmark. These are relatively short crossings, but you will still need to drive a considerable distance towards the Netherlands.
The approximate travel times by car after arrival are as follows:
- By car from Kiel to Amsterdam or Rotterdam: ± 6 hours
- By car from Hirtshals to Amsterdam or Rotterdam ± 10 hours
Timetable, availability, and compare prices
Our online booking module makes it easy to find and book your desired ferry crossing. All you have to do is enter your departure port, destination, and travel dates. The system will show you the best routes and possible alternatives. You can then choose the ferry that best suits your needs and budget. Have a great trip!
Travel tip: Take time to compare ferries!
It can be very rewarding to take the time to make your booking. In some cases it may be more economical to travel there with the Kristiansand-Eemshaven ferry and depart from Kiel for the return journey. You can find the prices in the booking module above.
From Norway to The Netherlands via Germany
There are 2 crossings to the Netherlands via Germany: Oslo-Kiel and Emden-Kristiansand. From Kiel, it is still a four or 5-hour drive to the Dutch border, but since you arrive early in the morning by ferry, this fits well in any travel schedule.
There is also a reasonably good ICE train connection to Amsterdam from Kiel. A train journey takes between 6.5 and 8 hours, and the station is not far from the port of arrival in Kiel.
Ferry to the Netherlands via Denmark
There are several short and fast crossings between Norway and Denmark. In addition, these are also reasonably affordable if you compare them with Kiel-Oslo or Kristiansand-Eemshaven. The disadvantage of this choice is the long drive that you then have to make to the Netherlands.
Frequently asked questions
There was only one ferry connection from the Netherlands to Norway: the crossing from Eemshaven to Kristiansand. It is operated by HNL – Holland Norway Lines and has in 2023 moved to Emden-Kristiansand.
From departure to arrival takes 18 hours on this route. You will leave in the afternoon (15.00) from Emden to Kristiansand where you will arrive the next morning on 09.00
If you don't dislike a longer drive you can drive to Kiel, Kopenhagen, Langesund, or Hirtshals. You will be longer in the car but the crossing by ferry is a lot shorter.
Depending on whether you bring a car and book a cabin, the costs for the ferry to Germany from Norway vary a lot. To give an indication: a ferry will start at around €225,- per person. Depending on when you travel and whether you bring a car camper, and what kind of cabin, the total price can move to €800 for the crossing quickly (one way).
