Are you visiting Ameland and want to visit Schiermonnikoog as well? That is possible with the ferry from Ameland to Schiermonnikoog and vice versa. The ferry sails along the beautiful east coast of Ameland, the uninhabited Engelsman plate and the far west end of Schiermonnikoog.
Travel information for the ferry from Ameland to Schiermonnikoog
From Ameland to Schiermonnikoog: the crossing
During the summer months (July and August) there are a number of crossings from Ameland to Schiermonnikoog. On serval days a week it’s possible to take a day trip to Schiermonnikoog with the to ride the Robbenboot m.s. Ameland and the historic sailing clippers Willem Jacob and Helena. The duration of the crossing to Schiermonnikoog differs per day, time and boat. The Robbenboot m.s. Ameland departs from the same port as the ferry to Ameland.
Tickets for the ferry from Ameland to Schiermonnikoog
It is recommended to purchase tickets online in advance. On the boat you can pay with your debit card.
Adult: € 27,50 (one way) or € 35,00 (return ticket)
The costs for the boat from Ameland to Schiermonnikoog can vary considerably. For full and current rates, check the Robbenboot website.
Departures
From Ameland to Schiermonnikoog
In the summer you can take the ferry to Schiermonnikoog a number of times, both in the morning and in the afternoon. It is also possible to spend the night on the boat.
From Schiermonnikoog to Ameland
In high season you can take the boat from Schiermonnikoog to Ameland a number of times, both in the morning and in the afternoon. It is also possible to spend the night on the boat.
The timetable may vary during weekends, holidays, events and public holidays. A complete overview of sailings and any changes can be found on the website of VVV Ameland.
Are you visiting Ameland and also want to visit Terschelling? This is possible with the ferry from Ameland to Terschelling. The ferry service provides one way and return tickets. The crossing is a beautiful experience since the ferry sails along the beautiful south coast of both Ameland and Terschelling, including the Bosplaat.
Travel information ferry from Ameland to Terschelling
From Ameland to Terschelling: the crossing
In the summer (June, July and August) there are a number of departures to Terschelling. On a few days a week it’s possible to go on a day trip to Terschelling by taking the Zeehond m.s. Ameland or the historic sailing clippers Willem Jacob and Helena.
The duration of the crossing to Terschelling differs per day, time and boat. The Zeehond m.s. Ameland sails from the jetty in Nes and is usually the second ship on the quay, next to the ferry to Ameland.
Tickets for the ferry from Ameland to Terschelling
It’s recommended to buy tickets in advanced. This can be done online. You can also use a debit card when you purchase tickets on the ferry.
Costs
Child passenger 4-12 years old: € 17,50 one way, € 22.50 return ticket
Adult passenger € 28,50 one way, € 36,00 return ticket
The costs for the ferry from Ameland to Terschelling can vary considerably. For full and current rates, check the Robbenboot website.
Schedule
The ferry from Ameland to Terschelling
During peak season you can take the ferry from Ameland to Terschelling a number of times a day, both in the morning and in the afternoon. Sometimes it is also possible to spend the night on board.
From Terschelling to Ameland
During peak season you can take the ferry from Terschelling to Ameland a number of times a day, both in the morning and in the afternoon. Sometimes it is also possible to spend the night on board.
This timetable may vary during weekends, holidays, events and public holidays. A complete overview of sailings and any changes can be found on the website of VVV Ameland.
Parking on Ameland
Parking on Ameland is available at your convenience. There are several parking areas on Ameland where you can park your car. You can park for free in the so-called blue zones. You must then use a blue parking disc and the parking time is limited. In each blue zone you can find a sign that states how long you can park on certain days or hours.
How does parking on Ameland work?
When you park your car, indicate on the blue parking card when you have arrived. Then you place the parking card on your dashboard. Make sure it is clearly visible. It is also allowed to park on the side of the road with your caravan, camper or trailer, provided that this is not longer than three consecutive days.
Free parking on Ameland
On Ameland is free available in various parking places. This is possible at the parking lot at the intersection of the Verdekspad and Stokershiem. Click here for directions. As a guest, you can park for free at many hotels on Ameland and other accommodations.
Bring your car on the ferry to Ameland
You are allowed to bring your car to Ameland. Don’t forget to reserve a spot on the ferry to Ameland. Keep in mind that brining your car to Ameland is only possible on the regular ferry and not on the express service.
Parking areas on Ameland
Parking at the Jan van Eijckweg Location: Jan van Eijckweg, Nes. This parking lot is located at 300 meters from the beach.
Parking area Oranjeweg Location: Oranjeweg, Hollum The beach of Hollum is located at about 200 meters from this parking area.
Parking area Reeweg Location: Reeweg, Ameland The beach of Nes is located at almost 3 kilometers from this parking area.
Parking at the beach on Ameland Location: Strandweg, Buren As the name suggests, you can park close to the Ameland beach (225 meters).
Verdekspad Location: Stokershiem, Nes. Located at about 2 kilometers from the Westerpad beach.
Parking in Holwerd
If you don’t bring your car to Ameland, you can opt for parking in Holwerd. The ferry port of Holwerd can be easily reached by car. There are two parking areas which provide enough parking space. There are also various parking facilities in and near Holwerd, both covered and uncovered.
A shuttle bus service is provided from the P2 parking area, which connects to the departure times of the Ameland ferry. Due to crowds during the high season, during events and around the holidays, it is recommended to take some extra travel time into account for searching for a parking space.
Fast Ferry Ameland
Starting March 28th, 2018, Wagenborg Passagiersdiensten operates the new Fast Ferry Ameland service on the Ameland-Holwerd route. The Arriva bus line #166 runs from Leeuwarden and connects with the departure times of the fast ferry. There is no connecting bus transport on extra departures.
Departure times Ameland fast ferry
M.s. Fostaborg has its own timetable and it takes twenty minutes to cross. With the arrival of m.s. Fostaborg, the first departure of the normal ferry to Ameland departs from April 1st at 6.15 am from Ameland. The first departure from Holwerd departs at 7.15 am.
Costs for the fast ferry to Ameland
On top of the normal return ticket price, there is a surcharge of € 7.50 for the fast ferry service. The same surcharge was also applied to the express service provided by the Watertaxi. It is also possible to purchase a 20-way credit and a 10-way credit for the fast ferry. A 20-way credit costs € 120.00. This means that regular travelers, such as residents and commuters, get four credits for free. A 10-way credit costs € 67.50, whereby travelers gets one free credit.
Wagenborg Passagiersdiensten emphasizes that travelers must book online at all times. If you don’t, and tickets for the express service is sold out, your credits do not entitle you to a seat. In addition, travelers should bear in mind that they must also purchase a ferry service ticket. With the introduction of m.s. Fostaborg between Ameland and Holwerd, the Watertaxi is only available on demand.
New express service from Holwerd to Ameland
In the summer of 2017, the plans for a new fast ferry service became solid. From that moment on, Wagenborg Passagiersdiensten has started the construction and started the consultation to get approval on the transport plan. After a positive assessment of the request for advice by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, the Consumer Platform Waddenveren Oost and the decentralized authorities, the grantor also agreed. From that moment on, behind the scenes everything has been set in motion to give substance to the communication around the express service. We succeeded. From March 28, 2018 m.s. Fostaborg according to timetable.
Fast ferry Ameland – the MS Fostaborg takes you to Ameland within 20 minutes
This ship, built entirely on Frisian soil, will allow the shipping company to carry 48 passengers per crossing to and from Ameland. This gives a new dimension to traveling across the Wadden Sea, because passengers can make the crossing safely and quickly at a speed of no less than forty kilometers per hour. The realization of the new express service is the result of the Open Plan Process, consisting of Rijkswaterstaat, the municipality of Ameland and Wagenborg Passenger Services. The express service was one of the five measures advised to reduce the consequences of the delays occurring between Ameland and Holwerd. “m.s. Fostaborg will soon provide a connection that is less affected by the current state of the navigation channel,” explains Ger van Langen.
Do you have a question about the ferry to Ameland? Perhaps we already answered your question below. Frequently asked questions with answers regarding the ferry to Ameland. Questions about parking, rates, schedule, reservations, etc.
Single tickets are not available. All mentioned prices are for return tickets.
Does the ticket price for my car include occupants?
The ticket price for a car does not include occupants. For a trailer, caravan or bicycle carrier you have to pay an additional fee. You don’t have to pay for bicycles on a roof rack.
Can I reserve a passenger ticket?
The ferries have sufficient capacity for all passengers. It is neither necessary nor possible to reserve a place on the ferry in advance.
Do I have to make a reservation for my motorcycle?
It is not possible to make a reservation for individual motorbikes. If you visit Ameland with a group (a minimum of 5) of motorcyclists then it is recommended to call ahead +31 519 54 61 11.
How much is parking?
A parking ticket costs € 4.50 (or less). You can pay in cash or with your debit card. It is also possible to pay with your credit card (VISA, Maestro, American Express and Eurocard). More information about parking in Holwerd.
What time should I be present?
It is recommended to be present at least half an hour before the departure of the ferry.
How do I get to my destination on Ameland?
There are buses and taxis available on Ameland. You can also rent bicycles on Ameland.
How long does the crossing to Ameland take?
The crossing by ferry to Ameland takes around 45 minutes.
What to do on Ameland?
Check out the Ameland tourist information agenda for all activities and excursions on Ameland. You can also visit one of the tourist offices in Nes or Hollum during your stay to find out about the week programs.
Can I take the ferry from Lauwersoog to Ameland?
That is certainly possible, although only in July and August. The ferry from Lauwersoog to Ameland crosses the beautiful mudflats where you can enjoy the views, birds, peace and space.
Mudflat hiking Ameland
Of course the ferry is faster, but perhaps it is much more fun to walk to a Wadden Island, the so-called mudflat hiking. Mudflat hiking is a sporting and unique adventure, in the middle of the nature of the World Heritage Wadden Sea. The Wadden Sea is also called the last wilderness and is an indescribably beautiful nature reserve.
Mudflat hiking to Ameland
The mudflat hike to Ameland has a length of about 10 kilometers. The walk itself takes about 3 hours. This trip, especially in the beginning is slightly heavier than mudflat walking to Texel, due to the mud. From about halfway the surface is sandy. Walking across the mud flats to Ameland is suitable from the age of 14 years.
Texel
The hike on the mudflats to Texel takes about 3.5 hours, the total length is about 11 kilometers. The trip goes along nature reserve De Schorren where you can admire the flora and fauna of the Wadden Sea. Mudflat hiking to Texel is not difficult because you walk on hard sand plates. This makes the trip suitable for the older kids (from 10 years). The collection point Waddenpark Avanti is about 20 kilometers after arriving by the ferry to Texel.
Vlieland
Because the gullies between Harlingen and Vlieland, also at low tide, are too deep, it is not possible to hike to Vlieland. It is possible to take a short walk during low tide. It takes about six to eight hours for the water to rise again. This is a wonderful experience.
The channels between Terschelling and Harlingen are also too deep to hike on.
Schiermonnikoog
The hike from Lauwersoog to Schiermonnikoog is tough, takes almost 6 hours and is no less than 19 kilometers long. The subsoil consists of sand and mud alternately. The changing gullies and trenches and deep swallows are especially heavy in the coastal valley. Hiking across the mud flats to Schiermonnikoog is only suitable for hikers who are very experienced. In addition to the minimum age of 18, a very good condition, experience and stamina is also required.
In addition to the usual mudflat hiking trips you can also hike to and from other islands or sand flats. For example from the Zandplaat Brakzand to Schiermonnikoog, a trip of more than 11 kilometers.
Hiking to Rottumeroog, the island that is most east, is also possible. This is a very exclusive trip because it can only be organized a few times a year.
A hiking classic is the wanderings to the Engelsmanplaat, where is a Wadwachtpost. The journey is about 12 kilometers long and takes about 4 hours. The toughness is not so bad because the subsoil consists mostly of hard sandy soil.
More information about mudflat hiking
One of the pioneers in this area is Wadloopcentrum Fryslân. They have more than 50 years of experience.
Parking in Holwerd
There are several options for parking in Holwerd. Are you visiting Ameland for a day or weekend? Then park your car on the Veerdam, which is close to the ferry to Ameland terminal. When you’re just picking up or dropping off someone, you can use the short-term parking for free.
Short-term parking Holwerd
You can park your car at the short-term parking lot, which is located in front of the departure hall. Parking for picking up or dropping off passengers, or a visit to the restaurant is free with a maximum of two hours.
Long-term parking Holwerd
For long-term parking you can park your car in the parking lot in Holwerd. The parking lot opens every day from half an hour before the arrival of the first ferry from Ameland, to fifteen minutes after departure of the last ferry to Ameland.
This parking area is open 7 days a week from 5:30 am to 9:00 pm. You can leave the parking lot at any time. Parking your car is at your own risk, there is no security available.
The price for a parking ticket is € 4.50 (or less). You can pay in cash or with your credit card (VISA, Maestro, American Express and Eurocard). Debit cards are not accepted.
Holwerd Ameland Carpark
At the Holwerd Ameland Carpark you can park your car safely, both inside and outside. This parking facility, which is monitored day and night, is open 7 days a week, from 7 am to 10 pm. The parking rate for outside parking is € 5 per day. If you prefer to park indoors, the rate is € 6 per day.
After you parked your car you can take the shuttle bus to the Wagenborg ferry port. The shuttle bus leaves every 15 minutes during busy times. During less busy times, the shuttle service will leave on request.
Parking Lauwersoog
Parking in Lauwersoog is possible on the Zeedijk in Lauwersoog. This parking area is managed by Scheepspark. Check the Scheepspark website for more information.
Tip
At the payment machines, near the arrival hall, it can get quite crowded on busy days. There are also payment machines available in the parking lot, within walking distance.
Day trip to Ameland
You can already pay for your parking ticket before departure, at one of the payment terminals in Holwerd. This way you safe time on your return journey.
Prices for the ferry to Ameland
What are the prices for the ferry to Ameland? How much is a ticket for the Ameland ferry? Check out all prices for the ferry to Ameland in the overview below.
Return ticket for
Price
Summer rate
* per running metre ** driver included
Note: if in doubt, always check the current Wagenborg rates on wpd.nl or call customer service: +31 0900 9238.
Ferry to Ameland
All practical information for the ferry to Ameland at a glance. Ameland is a beautiful island in the Dutch Wadden Sea. Indulge your senses with pure sea air, incredible views, soothing relaxation and culinary pleasure. Ameland is an island with lots of nature, peace and space. On the island, every season has its own colors.
Buy tickets for the ferry to Ameland
The ferries to Ameland all have sufficient capacity for passengers. It is neither necessary nor possible to reserve a place on the ferry in advance. You can buy tickets for the ferry to and from Ameland at the Wagenborg Passenger Services counter in Holwerd. You can also buy tickets online; this way you don’t have to get in line at the counter. The crossing from or to Ameland takes around 45 minutes.
E-ticket for the crossing to Ameland
You can buy single tickets for the crossing to and from Ameland. Tickets bought at the summer rate are valid throughout the year. Tickets for the normal rate are valid from January 1st to March 31st and from October 1st to December 31st during the year of purchase. An e-ticket is not a reservation for a specific departure.
Traveling by car
Ameland is not a car-free island, so you can take your car to Ameland. There is sufficient parking space available on the island. In the downtown area in the village of Nes are cars not allowed. Not bringing your car after all? Read more about parking in Holwerd.
You can reserve a ticket for your car online. It is also possible to take motor vehicles and bicycles on the ferry to Ameland. It is recommended to make a reservation for cars and caravans ahead. You can also call Wagenborg Passenger Services (+31 519-546111) to make a reservation for a car, caravan or motorcycle.
Traveling by public transit
The city of Holwerd has a bus station which is easily accessible from the Leeuwarden train and bus station. Line 66 takes you from Leeuwarden to the port of Holwerd, where you can get off at the terminal. More information on www.9292ov.nl.
Costs ferry Ameland
Are you looking for costs for the ferry to Ameland? On this page you can read everything about the costs for traveling to Ameland by ferry. New rates apply for the Ameland-Holwerd ferry service for 2019. Since 2014 there are no discounts available anymore for seniors (65 and older).
The rates for the ferry to Ameland are categorized for different types of travelers. Those who visit the island on foot or by bike will pay less than visitors who bring their car on the ferry to Ameland. A discounted rate is available for groups.
Check out the different cost categories below. There is also a price list available which shows a detailed overview of all prices for the ferry to Ameland.
Pedestrians
Kids (0-3)
Kids (4-11)
Adult
Adult 10 crossing credit*
Adult 20 crossing credit*
Costs ferry Ameland for groups**
Kids (4-11)
Adults
Vehicles
Vehicles up to 5,5 meters (excluding occupants)
10 crossing credit vehicles up to 5,5 meters*
Moped or scooter
Motorcycle
Bicycle
Vehicle > 5,5 meters including driver (< 2.60m wide) per running metre
Vehicle > 5,5 meters including driver (> 2.60m wide) per running metre
Vehicle > 5,5 meters including driver (with hazardous substances) per running metre
Other costs for the ferry to Ameland
Traveling to Ameland with a dog
Cart/wagon
Caravan / Trailer (max 2.60m breed) p/m
Bicycle carrier (including mounted bicycles)
* The Wagenborg Pass can hold 10 or 20 credits and is not personal or vehicle related. The pass can be used once per day for one person and/or vehicle. If credits were purchased before April 1st, the summer surcharge (from April 1st to September 30th) does not apply. The credit is valid for the remaining calendar year.
** The group discount applies to groups of a minimum of 15 people, provided that a reservation is made at least 7 days in advance.
Current costs
Check the WPD website for the current rates for the ferry to Ameland.
Parking rates
Are you leaving your car on the mainland? Read more information about the costs for parking in Holwerd.
The departures for the Ameland ferry to Holwerd are from 6.15 am to 8.00 pm. Every day several departures are available for both the normal ferry and the express service.
Important: this is a summary of the most common departure times for the Ameland ferry during the year. Most departures are only on certain days, periods or seasons. Always check the official departure times from Ameland to Holwerd when you plan your trip.
Departures Ameland ferry to Holwerd
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Sun
* Fast ferry / Express service ** Only on certain days or periods
Note: if in doubt, always check the current Wagenborg departures on wpd.nl or call customer service: +31 0900 9238.
The departures for the Holwerd ferry to Ameland are from 7.15 am to 8.30 pm. Every day several departures are available for both the normal ferry and the express service.
Important: this is a summary of the most common departure times for the Holwerd ferry during the year. Most departures are only on certain days, periods or seasons. Always check the official departure times from Holwerd to Ameland when you plan your trip.
Departures Holwerd ferry to Ameland
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Sun
* Fast ferry / Express service ** Only on certain days or periods
Note: if in doubt, always check the current Wagenborg Afvaarten Holwerd on wpd.nl or call customer service: +31 0900 9238.
Departure times Ferry Ameland
Are you looking for the departure times for the ferry to Ameland? The departure times for the ferry to Ameland are, on average, every hour. During the summer period, when a lot of tourists visit the island, there are extra departures. The ferry takes you to Ameland within approximately 45 minutes.
Special departure times for the ferry to Ameland during holidays
The ferry to Ameland also departs on public holidays, although the departure times are then different. The holidays on which the departures deviate are: Nieuwjaarsdag (New Year’s Day), Tweede Paasdag (Easter Monday), Koningsdag (King’s Day), Hemelvaartsdag (Ascension Day), Tweede Pinksterdag (Whit Monday), Eerste Kerstdag (Christmas) and Tweede Kerstdag (Boxing Day).
Information about extra departures to Ameland
Occasionally, extra departure times to Ameland are available during the summer period, public holidays or on busy days. You can check for extra departures via Teletext page 723 or Twitter.
Parking ferry Ameland
Are you arriving at the ferry port by car? Parking in Holwerd (or in Lauwersoog) is available both short-term and long-term. Both covered parking and uncovered parking is available for your convenience. From the parking lot a shuttle bus departs to the ferry port every 15 minutes.
Information about the bus schedule
Most bus times are adjusted to the departure times of the ferry. It is advisable to check the bus times, and any possible delays, online (www.9292ov.nl) or phone: +31 900-9292 (€ 0.70 per minute) before departure.
This page will be available in English soon.
This page will be available in English soon.
The ferry to Ameland service is provided by Wagenborg Ameland, also known by many as simply Ferry Ameland. Traveling to Ameland is possible with the normal ferry and the fast ferry (express service). The ferry will take you to Ameland within 50 minutes, while the fast ferry will take you to the beautiful island in just 20 minutes. The ferry from Holwerd to Ameland leaves every hour. During the trip you can enjoy the beautiful Wadden Sea and the accompanying nature.
Ferry to Ameland
Ameland is therefore a popular holiday destination for many tourists from home and abroad. Ameland is the perfect place for a nice hike or bike ride. The fourth Wadden island of The Netherlands belongs to the province of Friesland. With the impressive sand dunes and nature reserve Het Oerd, there is more than enough to do on Ameland. It is therefore not surprising that the ferry from Wagenborg makes the crossing to Ameland for thousands of people every year.
The ferries from Holwerd to Ameland have departure times of, on average, every hour. In the summer months there are extra departures during busy days. The sailing time is approximately 45 minutes.
Traveling with Wagenborg to Ameland
Your journey to Ameland starts at the Wagenborg Plaza in the terminal in Holwerd. Here you can use various facilities and also check in immediately if you want to travel to Ameland without a vehicle. In the terminal you can enjoy a delicious cup of coffee, visit a number of boutiques and the Nobeltje Experience Shop. Here you can learn everything about the famous drink from Ameland. The Wagenborg Plaza is open from Monday to Saturday.
Costs and prices
Check the ferry to Ameland rates for more information about the price of a ticket. There are different rates for high and low season.
Reservations and bookings
You can find a ticket machine in the Wagenborg Plaza terminal. Here you can buy a ticket for the ferry to Ameland. However, you can also do this in advance (online) or at the service counter in the terminal. For the fast ferry express service there is a ticket machine where you can pay for your ferry ticket with your debit or credit card.
Parking for the ferry to Ameland
Parking in Holwerd is available at the designated places. This is possible in both the P1 and P2 parking areas. P1 is located right next to the ferry terminal. When it has reached its capacity, you can park your car at P2. Compared to P1, this is a bit further away from the terminal, although there is a shuttle bus that transports you comfortably from the parking area to the ferry terminal.
With the ferry from Holwerd to Ameland. Which vehicles are allowed on the boat?
Bicycles, mopeds and scooters are allowed on the Wagenborg ferries. You can buy a special ticket online or at the service desk in Holwerd. Do you bring your bikes attached on a bike carrier on your car? Then there is no additional fee. Ameland is not a car-free island, which means that your car or vehicle is allowed on board. A reservation for your car is recommended, but not mandatory.
Please note that Wagenborg passenger services only transport cars and vehicles that are accompanied by a driver. Because Ameland is a popular holiday island, RVs, trailers and caravans are also allowed on board. A ticket for a caravan always needs to be reserved in combination with a car ticket. When you make a reservation, you must specify the length of the trailer and the vehicle.
On board facilities
During the 50-minute crossing from the mainland to the island, you can use various facilities. A self-service buffet for a delicious meal or tasty snack is available. Both the ferry and the express service to Ameland are equipped with a coffee machine. In addition, there is free WIFI available. This also applies to the terminal at Holwerd.
Traveling with your dog
Of course there are also various sanitary rooms available on the boat to Ameland. For people with a disability, the ferry service to the island also has special toilets and a lift. A wheelchair can also be arranged in the Holwerd terminal and can be taken on board for free. If you make the crossing from Holwerd to Ameland with WPD, you can take advantage of the free luggage service. On board it is permitted to carry a maximum of 30 kilos of hand luggage (suitcase or backpack).
If you want to visit one of the Dutch Wadden Islands then of course you take the ferry. The various ferries bring you quickly, safely and comfortably to your final destination on Texel, Vlieland, Terschelling, Ameland of Schiermonnikoog Hundreds of thousands of visitors annually make the crossing to one of the Wadden Islands. Besides passenger transport you can also take your car on almost every ferry. During the crossing you enjoy the beautiful nature around you.
Island hopping between the Dutch Wadden Islands
You can take the ferry from the mainland, but it is perhaps even more fun to cross from island to island. The so-called island hopping on the Wadden Islands is becoming increasingly popular. The islands that are most easily combined are Texel, Vlieland and Terschelling. Do you want to visit several islands? Spend a few days and book a hotel to stay overnight. The sea is too turbulent and the shipping channels are too winding to visit more than two islands a day.
