From Norway to the Netherlands
From Norway to the Netherlands
Not too long ago, there was a convenient direct connection from Norway to the Netherlands via the Kristiansand-Eemshaven route. Unfortunately, this direct route no longer exists. The best alternatives now are Oslo-Kiel and Kristiansand-Hirtshals.
First to Denmark or Germany
You have two main options:
- Take the luxurious ferry from Oslo to Kiel and then drive approximately 5 hours from Kiel to the Netherlands.
- Opt for the fast ferry from Kristiansand to Hirtshals and then drive about 10 hours from Hirtshals to the Netherlands.
Ferry Map: ferry routes from Norway to Germany & Denmark
Use the interactive map to find the right crossing and ferry company. You can zoom in and out and view the routes in the ports.
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, especially if you live around Oslo or further north. It can be a logical choice for a pleasant trip, but due to the overnight stay and distance, it 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 crossings are relatively short, but you will still need to drive a considerable distance to reach the Netherlands.
Crossings to Denmark & Germany from Norway
Ferry Guide Norway to the Netherlands.
From Norway to The Netherlands via Germany
There is one crossing to the Netherlands via Germany: Oslo-Kiel. From Kiel, it’s about a 4 to 5-hour drive to the Dutch border. Since the ferry arrives early in the morning, this timing fits well into most travel schedules.
Additionally, there is a convenient ICE train connection from Kiel to Amsterdam. The train journey takes between 6.5 and 8 hours, and the station is close to the port of arrival in Kiel.
Ferry to the Netherlands via Denmark
There are several short and fast crossings between Norway and Denmark, which are also relatively affordable compared to the Kiel-Oslo or Kristiansand-Eemshaven routes. The main disadvantage of this option is the long drive you'll need to make to reach the Netherlands afterward.
The approximate travel times by car after arrival are as follows:
- Kiel to Amsterdam or Rotterdam: approximately 6 hours
- Hirtshals to Amsterdam or Rotterdam: approximately 10 hours
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).
- Relevant Guides
- Photo Gallery
Join the Conversation
Ask questions, share answers, and discover routes and crossings. We and our visitors are here to help you find a suitable crossing.
- Relevant Blogs
All crossings from Norway to Europe
Use your mouse to slide the bar or simply swipe with your finger.
