A brand-new ferry connection between Groningen (Eemshaven) in the north of the Netherlands and Arendal (Eydehavn) on Norway’s south coast is moving a step closer. Norwegian officials are ready to go, aiming to launch sailings as early as 2027, and the only piece of the puzzle still missing is the final green light from the Dutch side, led by Groningen Seaports and the province of Groningen.
This isn’t the first time the Eemshaven has looked towards Norway. Back in 2022, Holland Norway Lines briefly ran a service to Kristiansand. That venture ended prematurely, but it proved one key point: demand is strong. Travellers from the Netherlands and from the UK clearly love the idea of a direct sailing into southern Norway.
Why this is exciting for British ferry fans
Even though the ship won’t depart from a UK port, this route is the next thing to a game-changer for British travellers looking to reach Norway by sea. With no direct UK–Norway ferries currently running, many UK holidaymakers drive via France, Denmark or Germany. This is already a big shortcut.
- Easy reach from Britain: Hull, Newcastle and Harwich are all well connected by overnight ferries to the Netherlands. From ports like IJmuiden (near Amsterdam) or Rotterdam/Hook of Holland, it’s just a few hours’ drive to Eemshaven.
- Direct gateway to southern Norway: The planned Arendal terminal at Eydehavn is perfectly placed for exploring the fjords, the southern archipelago and the roads northwards.
- Comfort and flexibility: One overnight sailing replaces a long drive through Denmark or multiple crossings.
- Great alternative to the routes from Kiel to Oslo or the ferries from Hirtshals in Denmark to Norway.
The route will be operated by Njordic Ferry Lines, with Arendal already investing in the infrastructure: the harbour and access roads are being upgraded, and the terminal site is ready.
For now, it’s a waiting game. The intent to launch has been signed, but Groningen still needs to commit, and the detailed plans must be finalised.
If all goes well, British Norway (and ferry) lovers could soon sail to the Netherlands, roll aboard on the next ferry in the North of the Netherlands Eemshaven and wake up the next morning on the Norwegian coast: a proper North Sea adventure, just across the water.
Why there’s still no ferry from the UK to Scandinavia remains a mystery.
JW, one of the co-founders of FerryGoGo, has a passion for food, drink, and travel. He loves exploring data and the history of the many destinations featured on FerryGoGo, and he's always curious about the population of each place.
