A few days away, a complete break from the daily grind without breaking the bank. That’s the charm of a minicruise. Instead of a classic journey from IJmuiden to Newcastle, imagine a refreshing minicruise from IJmuiden to Amsterdam. But is a 4‑day minicruise to Amsterdam still worth it? In this article we lay out the options, pros and cons, and the costs, so you can decide if a quick sea escape to the Dutch capital suits you.
“ From around €60 per person, you can book a minicruise from IJmuiden to Amsterdam, including two overnight stays on board.”
The 3‑Day Minicruise to Amsterdam
What minicruise options are available?
There are roughly three packages to choose from. Each package offers a short yet energizing getaway, including on-board accommodations and transfer to Amsterdam. Note that the lowest prices are often based on a shared cabin arrangement. Below are the main differences:
| Type of Cruise | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Family Minicruise (3‑D) | From €60 per person | – Unbeatable price! – Two nights on board – Bus transfer to the center of Amsterdam – A short but complete experience |
| 4‑Day Minicruise | From €135 per person | – Hotel night in Amsterdam – A wider selection of hotels – More time for museums, canals, and sightseeing – An extra day to explore |
| Magical Minicruise (3‑D) | From €74 per person | – 4-person cabin perfect for families or friend groups – Special access to one of Amsterdam’s top attractions (think Van Gogh or Rijksmuseum vibes!) – Includes a private driver for a unique local experience – A particularly enchanting option for enthusiasts |
3 vs. 4 days: What’s best for you?
Will you opt for a quick 3‑day getaway or add an extra day for a more relaxed visit? The 3‑day option is ideal if you’re looking for a short escape on a budget. In contrast, the 4‑day minicruise (like the 4‑Day MiniCruise) clearly offers more time to discover Amsterdam. If your schedule is flexible and you have a bit more to spend, that extra day is definitely worth it.
The 4‑day minicruise gives you that extra day to truly get to know Amsterdam.
The Itinerary at a Glance
Both the 3‑ and 4‑day cruises generally follow this schedule:
- Day 1: The ship departs from IJmuiden at around 17:30. Check‑in begins at 14:00, with the final check‑in at 16:45.
- Day 2: Arrive in Amsterdam around 09:00. A bus will take you into the heart of Amsterdam, where you’ll have ample time to explore the city until early afternoon. Later in the day, between 15:30 and 16:15, you’ll board the ferry for your return to the Netherlands.
- Day 3: You’ll be back in IJmuiden by around 09:30—just in time for an early Dutch lunch!
If you choose the 4‑day option, you’ll enjoy an extra day to discover Amsterdam at your leisure.
Why Choose DFDS?
DFDS is currently the only operator running this route. With its large, well‑equipped ships, DFDS is a reliable choice for those who want a true “mini‑cruise experience.” You won’t have to worry about boredom on board, thanks to a wide range of activities:
- Cinema
- Small Casino
- Kids Club
- Boutiques
- Restaurants & Cafés
This extensive on-board offer means you can relax and soak up the vacation vibe during your crossing, even before you set foot in Amsterdam.
Minicruise: The Final Verdict
A minicruise from IJmuiden to Amsterdam remains one of the most affordable and accessible ways to get away. Whether you opt for the 3‑ or 4‑day trip, you’re combining a mini sea holiday with a (short) city break in one of the Netherlands’ most vibrant cities. The 4‑day journey offers more time to soak in Amsterdam’s culture, though it comes at a slightly higher price.
Our advice? If your schedule allows, go for the 4‑day option, the extra time in Amsterdam is absolutely worth it. However, if you’re after a quick and budget‑friendly escape, the 3‑day family cruise is an excellent choice.