If you’re planning a Norwegian Cruise Line voyage to Amsterdam, you might be wondering where the ship actually docks. Luckily, Amsterdam has multiple ports that cater to cruise ships of all sizes. Here’s a rundown of the various ports and what they offer:
Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA)
PTA is the main port for cruise ships in Amsterdam, and it’s where most Norwegian Cruise Line ships will dock. This modern terminal is located in the heart of the city, just a short walk from popular attractions like the Anne Frank House and Dam Square.
Facilities: PTA offers a range of facilities for passengers, including shops, restaurants, and currency exchange services. There’s also free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal.
Transportation: From PTA, it’s easy to get around Amsterdam on foot or by public transport. The city’s tram system has several stops near the terminal, and there are also taxis available.
IJmuiden
If PTA is unavailable or fully booked, Norwegian Cruise Line ships may dock at IJmuiden instead. This port is located about 25 kilometers northwest of Amsterdam, so it’s not as convenient for exploring the city.
Facilities: While IJmuiden doesn’t have as many amenities as PTA, there are still some shops and cafes on-site. Passengers can also take advantage of free shuttle buses to nearby towns like Haarlem.
Transportation: From IJmuiden, passengers can take a shuttle bus or taxi to Amsterdam. However, this can be expensive and time-consuming compared to docking at PTA.
Zaandam
Zaandam is another option for Norwegian Cruise Line passengers visiting Amsterdam. This port is located about 10 kilometers north of the city center, in the town of Zaandam.
Facilities: The port of Zaandam is smaller than PTA, but there are still some amenities available. Passengers can shop for souvenirs or grab a bite to eat at one of the cafes.
Transportation: From Zaandam, passengers can take a train to Amsterdam Central Station. The journey takes around 12 minutes, and trains run regularly throughout the day.
Conclusion
In summary, Norwegian Cruise Line ships usually dock at Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA) when visiting Amsterdam. However, if PTA is unavailable or fully booked, they may dock at IJmuiden or Zaandam instead. While these ports offer fewer amenities and are less convenient for exploring the city, they’re still viable options for passengers who want to experience Amsterdam’s unique culture and history.