We are now back in Europe, but this blog is really the follow-up to our previous article: how we made our way back from Southeast Asia to Europe. At that point we were still stuck in Thailand, exploring different flight and ferry combinations.
In the end, we travelled from Bangkok to Seoul, from Seoul to London, and then continued with Stena Line Rail & Sail from London to Harwich, followed by the overnight ferry to Hook of Holland. This blog covers that final stretch: from London to Harwich (Rail), and the crossing itself (Sail).
After a 15-hour flight from Seoul to London, we were very much looking for a more comfortable option than another flight. That is where the Harwich to Hook of Holland ferry came in. Not just for the comfort, but also – to be honest – as a nice bonus for the kids.
This blog follows on from: Stuck in Southeast Asia? Affordable routes back to Europe.
More about this route: Harwich – Hook of Holland ferry guide
Cabins explained: Stena Line cabins, tickets and upgrades
Earlier onboard report: On board the Stena Britannica
Rail & Sail from London to Harwich
We had found reasonably priced flights from Seoul to London, and we were already familiar with Stena Line’s Rail & Sail concept: train and ferry combined into one journey. So, that is what we went for.
From Heathrow we travelled towards Liverpool Street Station, and from there directly to Harwich International, right next to the ferry terminal. That connection is actually one of the biggest advantages of this route, you are more or less taken door-to-door, which makes a big difference when travelling with young children and quite a bit of luggage.
Our main beginner’s mistake was taking the train during the London rush hour. With two children and bags, that is not ideal, but in our case, there was not much alternative. We landed around 4.30 pm and still had to make our way across London.
On paper, it looked like we would have to rush to make the 23:00 departure. In reality, everything went surprisingly smoothly. In fact, we ended up arriving earlier than needed.
Boarding usually starts about 2.5 hours before departure, but we were there roughly 3.5 hours in advance. That might sound early, but in practice it worked out well. The terminal is comfortable, and being right next to the station makes the whole process very easy.
Boarding the Stena Hollandica
It felt like the staff could see we had arrived quite early, as we were allowed to board the Stena Hollandica sooner than expected. After check-in and receiving our boarding passes, we were on board between 20:00 and 20:15 – among the first passengers.
The children were already excited beforehand. They genuinely enjoy ferry travel, and it is easy to see why: more space, play areas, and a much more relaxed environment compared to flying.
Once on board, we did a quick walk around the ship – partly to get our bearings, and partly to take some photos for Ferrygogo before being directed by the kids straight to Happy World. They could burn off some remaining energy, while we grabbed a glass of wine at the bar and finally caught our breath after the journey.
After about an hour of playing and settling in, we headed to our cabin and went to sleep.
Route: Harwich to Hook of Holland
Ship: Stena Hollandica
Departure: 23:00 overnight crossing
Booked as: Rail & Sail
Cabin: Captain’s Class (2 cabins)
Total price: £402.30 for 4 passengers
Per person: approx. £100
Why it worked well: train + ferry + cabin + breakfast = transport and overnight stay combined
Why we upgraded our cabin
After a 15-hour flight with children, followed by the train journey, we decided to upgrade to a Captain’s Class cabin. For us, that made a big difference.
The standard cabins are perfectly fine, but this upgrade felt well deserved after the trip we had already had. Of course, it depends on your budget, but in our case it was absolutely worth it, especially as we had saved quite a bit by taking a less direct route back from Asia.
And looking at the total cost, it did not feel expensive. For just over £400, we had the train, the overnight ferry, upgraded cabins and breakfast included. That is not just transport, it also replaces a hotel night.
Want to compare cabins? See our guide: Stena Line cabins, tickets and upgrades.
Our Captain’s Class cabin
The cabin itself was noticeably more spacious than a standard inside cabin. Plenty of room for luggage, a comfortable bed, and a good-sized bathroom with a proper shower which, after a long-haul flight, is genuinely appreciated.
Another small but important detail: the minibar, coffee machine and kettle. It means you can properly unwind in your cabin rather than just using it to sleep. Especially the next morning, being able to have a coffee in the cabin before heading out makes the whole experience feel much more relaxed.
The main advantage of an overnight ferry is, of course, that you travel while you sleep. And compared to flying, it simply feels much more comfortable, call it professional bias.
On board: relaxed and family-friendly
The ship is well-equipped, with restaurants, bars, and entertainment. The atmosphere on board is relaxed, and the staff were friendly throughout.
The main restaurant on board is Taste, which now works à la carte rather than buffet-style. We skipped dinner this time because of the children’s bedtime, but it is good to know the option is there.
You can also upgrade to the Stena Plus Lounge, which includes drinks and snacks. This can be worth it if you plan to stay up longer or are travelling during the day.
Breakfast and arrival in Hook of Holland
In the morning, you are gently woken via the intercom, usually around 6:30 to 7:00. It is not abrupt, more of a subtle reminder that breakfast is available and arrival is approaching.
We took it easy: first a coffee in the cabin, and then we made our way to breakfast. The choice was good and the setup straightforward. After ordering, your food is prepared fresh, and you are either called to collect it or it is brought to your table.
After breakfast, there is just enough time to pack your things calmly before heading towards disembarkation.
Arriving in Hook of Holland around 08:00, you are typically outside the terminal within 20–30 minutes. We were picked up there; and that was the moment the long journey really came to an end.
Things to remember for this crossing
- Check ETA requirements if travelling via the UK
- Bring a valid passport
- Keep your boarding pass safe (also your cabin key)
- Turn off data roaming
- Rail & Sail is very convenient
- A cabin upgrade can be worth it after a long journey
- Very suitable for travelling with children
- You arrive well-rested compared to flying
In summary, we found the Harwich to Hook of Holland ferry a very comfortable and practical way to finish a long journey back to Europe. You travel overnight, arrive rested, and avoid another airport transfer. Especially after long-haul travel, this is a route we would happily choose again.
Jan Willem van Tilburg is co-founder of FerryGoGo and focuses on ferry market research, editorial strategy and practical travel content. His work covers ferry fares, route comparisons and first-hand travel guides based on real crossings. Jan Willem has sailed routes including Saint-Malo to Portsmouth, Portsmouth to Cherbourg, Newcastle to Amsterdam and Harwich to Hook of Holland himself, helping keep FerryGoGo’s guides grounded in real traveller experience.
