amsterdam mini cruises from hull 2 for 1

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Amsterdam in a weekend – the mini cruise from hull to amsterdam.

Visiting Amsterdam in a weekend – is the mini cruise worth it?

Can you really squeeze a trip to Amsterdam into just a weekend? With a mini cruise, you might just find you can! When it comes to a last minute weekend break my main priorities are finding something cheap, something that doesn’t use up much (if any) annual leave time, and an exciting destination that’s easy to explore on foot.

I usually start by looking at the cheapest flights on SkyScanner , but I know a few people who have done the overnight ferry trip to Amsterdam from Hull. So, on their recommendation I thought I would give that a go instead!

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What is the Dutch Dash?

Informally referred to as the “Dutch Dash” by the folks over in Hull (aka ‘ull), this quick weekend trip over to Amsterdam is one of a few mini cruise options offered by P&O Ferries from the Hull ferry port.

So how does a weekend mini cruise trip to Amsterdam work?

Mini cruise trips are great if you don’t want to waste time waiting around at the airport, booking hotels , transfers and all the usual travel stresses. Instead you board the ship a couple of hours before departing on Friday evening and spend the night in your cabin. Of course, I would recommend venturing out and enjoying the on-board bars and facilities too.

The next morning the ship arrives at Europort in The Netherlands. This is where you disembark the ferry and get taken by coach to the centre of Amsterdam. The day is then yours to spend as you please. After a full day of sightseeing, eating, drinking and whatever else you may get up to in the Dutch capital, head back to the coach pick up point. There will be a designated time for you to come back here, so be sure to pin the pickup spot on Google maps and set an alarm!. The coach will then return to the ship, where you can unwind in your cabin and arrive back in Hull the next morning. Simple!

What’s the cabin like on a mini cruise?

I won’t sugarcoat it, the standard cabin on the Hull to Amsterdam mini cruise ( I travelled on the Pride of Hull ) is pretty basic! If you are looking for something a little more luxurious than bunk beds and a small shower room, you may want to consider an upgrade. For the sake of a couple of nights, however, I think your money could be better spent elsewhere! Aside from the cabin being a little cramped everything was clean and comfortable.

What you need to know before you go on a mini cruise

There are a few things worth noting before you travel on your mini cruise to avoid getting caught out like I was. Firstly, there was only one plug socket in our cabin and it was a European fitting. Make sure to pack a travel adapter and maybe an extension lead to avoid running out of battery before you even get to Amsterdam. I really like this USB travel adaptor , as most of my devised have USB charge and it nice and compact to pack. I don’t know about you but I can barely function without Google Maps, so this was a big deal for me!

Secondly, there isn’t a kettle in the cabin either (true British problems right there!). If you like a tea or coffee in the morning and don’t want to pay the on-board prices, pack a travel kettle .

Finally, you aren’t allowed to bring alcohol on board. Save yourself the heartbreak of having it taken away from you at the ferry terminal and leave it at home! There are a few bars on board anyway and the drinks are quite reasonably priced.

How to spend a weekend in Amsterdam

If you haven’t already been to Amsterdam, it’s likely you’ve at least heard about of seen the dreamy photos of this quirky, canal filled city. Home to history, culture, art, food and fashion, there is something here for everyone to enjoy besides the infamous cafes of course.

Planning your day in Amsterdam

As you only get to spend one day in the city on a mini cruise, it’s best to have an idea of what you want to see beforehand. You’ll especially want to have this figured out if this is your first visit.

Amsterdam is home to some world-class museums and art galleries including the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum as well as historically significant sights like the Anne Frank House . If you plan to visit any of these, book your tickets in advance online . These museums are very popular and it would be a waste spending a large chunk of your day in a queue.

If you are planning on a more relaxed day of strolling along the canals and trying out the local food (there is plenty to try), you can be much more flexible with your time.

Here are a few more activities you can enjoy in Amsterdam on your mini cruise getaway:

Outside the Amsterdam tourist hotspots

As I visited the museums the last time I was in Amsterdam a couple of years ago, I wanted to spend this trip exploring the city at a much more relaxed pace. Our trip started with food (obviously) before heading over to one of the markets. I really enjoyed fawning over at pretty pieces of art and hand crafted jewellery. The brightly coloured fruit, vegetables, flowers and produce are a photographers dream too.

Explore the Amsterdam waterways with a canal cruise

After a morning of strolling we decided to do one of the many canal boat tours of the city. Lovers offer 1 hour tours leaving several times a day, for €13 it’s a great way to get introduced to the city and some of its history as you cruise through the many bridges and waterways.

If you find yourself hungry after a few hours of walking, or if you’ve got a sweet tooth, don’t pass up on an opportunity to visit The Pancake Bakery . This place has pancakes on a scale beyond your imagination, from boozy cherry toppings to pancakes themed on different nations, you will definitely leave happier and a few kilos heavier!

So, is a weekend mini cruise to Amsterdam worth it?

Whilst I had a great time on my mini weekend cruise to Amsterdam, there are definitely some pros and cons to consider before booking.

Pros of a mini cruise

The mini cruise is really good value, with travel, accommodation and transfers into Amsterdam for as little as £80 per person on selected dates.

You can ditch the cabin sized bag (although I do love my Aerolite) and pack as many clothes as you want, although I doubt you would need much for this short break!

Travel overnight in the comfort of a bed, instead of cramped on an economy flight.

Avoid expensive city centre accommodation prices.

This is a great way to try our cruising before booking a longer trip if you’re not sure if you’ll like it.

Cons of a mini cruise

You only get one day in Amsterdam, so your sightseeing time is limited. P&O Cruises do offer 3 or 4 day mini breaks too though that would give you more time to explore.

The entertainment on board the mini cruise probably won’t be to everyone’s taste, but there are other options such as the on-board cinema, if singing and dancing aren’t your thing.

Any delays on the outbound leg of your journey or during disembarkation could have a knock on effect, leaving you with even fewer precious hours to explore the city.

If you aren’t travelling from a reasonable distance from Hull you will need to factor in extra travel time to and from the terminal, as well as parking. In some cases your local airport may be the cheaper and less stressful option.

A weekend in Amsterdam by mini cruise - The verdict

For a cheap and cheerful getaway, I would definitely recommend a weekend in Amsterdam via mini cruise. Whilst it might not be the best option for visiting a new destination, it’s a great way to enjoy an old favourite and takes the hard work out of planning and travelling.

You can find out more about P&O mini cruises and book here.

Have you been on a weekend cruise break before? Did you enjoy it? Let me know in the comments!

Interested in longer cruise trips?

Read about my trip to the Caribbean on Harmony of the Seas.

Royal Caribbean cruise – on board Harmony of the Seas

Rather spend longer in amsterdam find accommodation here:, pin this post.

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£50pp—2-night mini cruise to Amsterdam, from Hull

You'll sail overnight, get a coach into town and spend a full day sightseeing before sailing home

Why We Love This Deal

Fancy a day strolling among the cafés, canals, and museums in Amsterdam, or admiring the innovative architecture and Erasmusbrug bridge in Rotterdam? You can see either of these cities from just £50 per person with this deal on return P&O ferry crossings from Hull. If you travel in the next few months, you'll avoid the summer crowds, and some December departures overlap with Christmas market season. 

What's included

• A 2-night mini cruise to Amsterdam or Rotterdam, in a Standard Cabin
• Return coach transfers from the ferry port to the centre of your chosen destination

When Depart from  Hull  on Sunday-Wednesday from 6 November-31 December, 2022; 2 January-28 March, 2023.

For more information, visit P&O Ferries' website .

• Amsterdam...  in a day, you could see the Anne Frank Huis or the Van Gogh Museum, cruise the Golden Age waterways then relax in a canal-front cafe. We recommend Café Twee Prinsen for small seasonal dishes with a beer or wine on the side
• Rotterdam...  is famous for its innovative modern architecture, with diverse art galleries and a flourishing food scene to boot

at 11:59 PM CT on Nov 16

When You Can Go

Select dates Sun-Wed 6 Nov-31 Dec, 2022; 2 Jan-28 Mar, 2023

Great price

How to Book

Book online with P&O Ferries

Once you have selected your destination, choose your travel dates from the drop-down menu in the top left corner. 

Book this deal by phone

Call P&O Ferries on 0130 444 8888 .

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Wildlife Mini Cruise

Orca mini cruise to amsterdam.

ORCA is making a splash in 2024! Get ready for an exciting wildlife adventure on our mini cruise to Amsterdam , and discover the captivating marine life along the journey.

From April to October, ORCA wildlife charity offers guided programmes led by ocean conservationists - where you have the chance to spot playful dolphins, elegant whales, and adorable porpoises. This year, both our magnificent ships, King Seaways and Princess Seaways, offer an exclusive ORCA experience!

As you embark on this journey, consider making a difference by donating £5-£10 to ORCA when booking – supporting ORCA’s invaluable conservation work.

Wildlife watch times on the outside deck are weather dependent and exact times will be announced via loudspeaker.

Wildlife watch experience with ORCA

Discover vibrant Amsterdam

Activities for both children and adults

Return coach transfers to Amsterdam

Restaurants, Bars and Duty-Free-Shop onboard, where you can save up to 50% vs the high street

Educational morning and evening deck watches – important, weather and resource dependent!

Wildlife presentation on North Sea wildlife with fun activities for kids

Check-in opens

Check-in closes

Depart North Shields for Amsterdam

ORCA on deck

Wildlife Watching

Coach departs for Amsterdam City Centre

Ship departs IJmuiden

Breakfast available onboard

Arrive in North Shields

Experience a Wildlife Cruise to Amsterdam

During your sailing you will meet our Ocean Conservationists Alex or Eilidh for a chat about marine life, sustainability and conservation, along with a tour of our Wildlife Lounge.

Join dedicated wildlife watches out on the Observation Deck in the mornings and evenings to glimpse some of the exciting species that can be found between Newcastle and Amsterdam. On the Dutch coast, sightings of harbour porpoises are very common, so watch out for these as the ship approaches the port in IJmuiden!

Our coach will also take you to the centre of Amsterdam and back to the port, so you can enjoy an unforgettable day in the Dutch capital.

ORCA will be expecting you on your return journey, and it is possible that a pod of playful bottlenose dolphins will welcome you back when the ship reaches the UK coast again. With luck, a shy minke whale might also make an appearance!

 I-Spy at sea with ORCA

ORCA have now made their data collection app  OceanWatchers  available to everyone! Explore the app's I-Spy at sea function, learn about the wildlife across our DFDS routes, and record your own sightings while onboard. At the end of your sailing, you might find yourself wanting to become a trained OceanWatcher yourself. Find out more about  I-Spy at sea !

Carefree travel with DFDS

Terms & conditions apply. ABTOT provides protection for your booking as set out in section 19 of our booking conditions .

Entertainment onboard

Duty Free Shopping at Sea

Join us on a ferry to Holland and enjoy unrivalled shopping facilities with savings of up to 50% against the high street.

There’s a range of bars on our ferries, each with a different atmosphere.

Live Performances

There’s plenty to keep you entertained on your journey, including live music and DJ sets to keep you dancing all night.

Sit back and enjoy the latest Hollywood blockbusters in our onboard cinemas where you’ll find options for all ages.

Our games area offers hours of fun for kids and adults alike on the crossing from Newcastle to Amsterdam.

Restaurants

North Sea Bistro

North Sea Bistro offers an intimate and luxe dining experience, with a seasonal menu and stylish surroundings.

Explorer's Kitchen

Explorer’s Kitchen is our all-you-can-eat buffet restaurant, boasting international cuisine for every taste.

Coffee Crew Café

Head to our café, Coffee Crew, for Starbucks® coffee, tea, bottled drinks and freshly baked sweet treats.

Double Bed Cabins

Our double bed cabins are designed with couples in mind. Sail between Newcastle and Amsterdam in this comfortable, en suite cabin with inside and sea view rooms available.

Sea View Cabins

Sail from Newcastle to Amsterdam with front row seats to the beautiful North Sea from your en suite, sea view cabin. Cabins can sleep up to 5 people in bunk beds.

Economy Cabins

Ideal for the budget-friendly traveller, our comfortable, en suite, economy cabins from Newcastle and Amsterdam sleep 2 – 4 people in bunk beds.

Pet Friendly Cabins

Travel onboard our DFDS ferry in a pet friendly cabin from Newcastle and Amsterdam, which can accommodate up to 4 people and 2 medium sized dogs.

Amsterdam Highlights

Amsterdam is a city full of life and energy, especially during the summer. With so much to see and do, a day in Amsterdam can be truly inspiring.

Take a stroll through the colourful streets of Jordaan or explore the historical landmarks of the city centre. Rent a bicycle and ride along the scenic canals, stopping at cafes and restaurants for a taste of local cuisine. Immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene by visiting museums such as the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum.

And if you're looking for some relaxation, take a picnic to Vondelpark and soak in the sun. Whatever your interests may be, Amsterdam offers endless possibilities for a memorable day!

Your package is protected

DFDS packages are protected by ABTOT so you can book with confidence and plan your holiday with peace of mind .

• ABTOT provides financial protection under The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 for DFDS A/S in the event of the company’s insolvency.
• ABTOT cover provides for a refund in the event you have not yet travelled or repatriation if transportation was included in your package booked directly with DFDS A/S.

Read more about ABTOT in section 19 of our booking conditions .

Championing the Seas!  

We're elated to announce that DFDS has once again retained its title as Europe’s Leading Ferry Operator at the 2024 World Travel Awards.

This accolade wouldn’t have been possible without you, our loyal passengers. Thank you for recognising the hard work of our exceptional team members who are dedicated to ensuring each voyage is as exceptional as the next.

Your ongoing support is the anchor to our success.

Wildlife charity ORCA promotes the conservation of the marine environment through education and research, providing a forum for the enjoyment of whales, dolphins, seabirds and other marine life. Working closely with the public to raise awareness of the importance of marine conservation, DFDS is proud to be working with ORCA.

Every journey is unique and therefore we cannot guarantee what you will see while onboard. However, the most common sightings include Harbour Porpoises, Minke Whales and White Beaked Dolphins.

ORCA will be onboard King Seaways from March – September.

ORCA is on the front side of the ship on deck 7. The Wildlife Watching is just above on deck 8.

If you're looking to enhance your wildlife watching experience, ORCA has got you covered - with equipment like binoculars, posters, games, and more! However, it can get chilly some days, so don't forget to pack some warm layers to bundle up and stay comfortable while you're out on deck!

2 for 1 mini cruises and taster cruise deals

Find the best cruise and ferry deals all year round, including the ever-popular 2 for 1 mini cruise offers.

Helping you find great value 2 for 1 mini cruises and taster cruise deals!

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Mini Cruise Deals & Cruise Offers Ending Soon

Grab a bargain while you can. These red hot deals are due to end soon.

DFDS Amsterdam Mini Cruise From £65pp FLASH SALE

Book this two night Amsterdam mini cruise from £46 per person while you can!

DFDS Amsterdam mini cruise from £74pp

Book a great value short break with daily departures to Amsterdam available with DFDS.

DFDS Copenhagen to Oslo mini cruise from £24pp

Perfect to bolt onto a holiday to Norway or Denmark, this two mini cruise benefits from wonderful scenic views.

DFDS Amsterdam mini cruise and hotel stay from £125pp

Extend your time in Amsterdam with an overnight hotel stay included in the price!

Save up to 25% on Short Stay Trips to Ireland with Stena Line

Save up to 25% on short escapes to Ireland with Stena Line

P&O Ferries Rotterdam mini cruise from £95pp

Enjoy a mini cruise city break to Rotterdam sailing with P&O Ferries from Hull.

More mini cruise deals »

Top Ferry Mini Cruises

• Newcastle to Amsterdam
• Hull to Amsterdam
• Hull to Rotterdam
• Hull to Bruges

Top Taster Cruise Breaks

• Southampton to Guernsey
• Southampton to Bruges

Find out where your nearest cruise/ ferry terminal is located with my handy interactive map .

What is a mini cruise?

Sailing into St Peter Port in Guernsey on a P&O Cruises ship

A mini cruise is a great way to explore Europe without the need to step aboard a plane. An even better way to see places like Amsterdam, Denmark or Bruges is on a 2 for 1 mini cruise offer. Several ferry operators - and even some cruise lines - offer mini-cruises and occasionally they run a two for the price of one offer . These are always extremely popular.

Mini cruises are a great way to see Europe in style. If you have a fear of flying or can't be bothered with waiting in an airport for three hours before a flight, a no-fly mini cruise is a much better option for you. Relax from the moment you step aboard your ferry. No hassle, no fuss and no waiting - the holiday starts the moment you jump aboard. Find out more about why mini cruises are fantastic little holidays here .

Mini cruise deals with none of the hassle

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Hi, I'm David and I'm a mini cruise addict. I love the ease and simplicity of exploring Europe from the comfort of a cruise ferry or cruise ship almost as much as I love finding great value deals, including the mother of all deals, the famous '2 for 1' deals.

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River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat

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Equipped with ice-breaking technology, these huge fancy yachts are the only river cruisers running all year around. The round trip journey takes two and a half hours and floats past all the big sights like the White House, Novodevichy monastery and the Kremlin. There’s a large open air observation deck up top, while the main body of the ship houses a restaurant with a dance floor for a romantic post dinner dance. For a particularly romantic experience take one of the evening boats and admire the bright lights of the city skyline at night.

The most relaxing and picturesque tour that Moscow can offer: a great way to see the city center and its main attractions. This is a perfect alternative to exploring the city by car, if you only have time to do sightseeing during weekday rush hours.

Your English-speaking guide is eager to share every bit of their knowledge about the surrounding landscape, the architecture and historical details.

We conduct Moscow river tour on Radisson Flotilla boats all year around!  It’s warm inside during winter months, while there’s air conditioning during hot summer days. You may also treat yourself to drinks, lunch or dinner on board (drinks and food are not included in tour price).

The cost of an excursion with a personal guide for 1 person

Quay at Radisson Collection Hotel

Government Headquarters ("the White House")

Kievsky Railway Central

Novodevichy Convent

Luzhniki Stadium

Academy of Sciences

Monument to Peter I

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

Moscow Kremlin

St.Basil's Cathedral

Novospassky Monastery

U-turn and back to Quay at Radisson Royal Hotel

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Who's going.

• Excursion River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat
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See photo of the meeting point