A slow adventure with DFDS
We all need a little adventure from time to time, don’t we? and sometimes its not always possible to have an extended adventure with an unlimited budget and time.
Hello DFDS ferries, I have been curious about their short cruises for a while, often seeing their offers pop up online.
DFDS NORTH SHIELDS TO AMSTERDAM
I chose the North Shields to Amsterdam route but there are many other options. I had wanted to revisit Amsterdam for such a long time, as the times I went as a youngster comprised of visiting a Dance Music Festival where I managed to get awful food poisoning and nearly pooped my pants at the airport, too much information I hear you cry. It was certainly a memorable experience for all the wrong reasons. The other time was with a friend who loved enjoying Amsterdam for all its coffee shops had to offer whilst I sat at the sidelines wishing I was elsewhere or exploring alone.
Sometimes you just have to go and see a City through your own eyes and make better memories of a place. Has anyone else experienced this with a City and wanted to revisit so it doesn’t hold such rubbish memories?
Another reason for taking the ferry was to see Amsterdam from the water, as opposed to a quick flight where you have to get to and from the airport, check in and wait about. I didn’t want to fly anywhere because quite honestly sometimes its just nice to go easy.
I thought taking the ferry would be a good compromise, potentially more relaxing and adventurous too. One of my favourite ways to take a journey is by water and I have been drawn to it recently from photography projects to boat trips, so what better way than to take the ferry and a slower route.
BOOKING
The booking process is simple and you can collect nectar points as an added bonus. There are lots of deals available with options for a few hours in Amsterdam or staying in the City for a few extra nights, which can be booked as an add on through DFDS or on your own. I opted to stay in Amsterdam for an extra few nights which I planned on my own.
There is an option to take a bus from the City Centre, in this case Newcastle, to the ferry port of North Shields, for £4.10 and the same on arrival at IJmuiden to central Amsterdam. In my opinion its well worth the money and you'll be dropped slap bang in the centre of Amsterdam ready to explore. This is the same spot you'll be picked up from too, so its nice and easy.
CHECK IN
Once you arrive in North Shields the check in process is quick and easy, all you need to do is show your passport, you’ll get a keycard which unlocks your room and away you go.
I checked in fairly early so this gave me more time to get comfy in my room, leave my luggage and explore the ship.
My room came with a glorious seaview, a bed, table, toilet and shower room. For me, everything was available to make me feel comfortable on board and have a good time.
THINGS TO DO ON THE FERRY
Once I was on the ferry I wanted to explore and was greeted by a great staff member from ORCA, a charity dedicated to studying and protecting whales, dolphins and porpoises in the UK and European waters who told me about the talks they offered in the Wildlife Lounge and on the observation deck which sounded intriguing. I had a look in the shop, bar, cafe, cinema, on the decks, found the viewing platforms and basically went everywhere I could before the ferry disappeared from the port. I always like to get my bearings wherever I am, if possible. It was a grey day in North Shields but the vastness of the ship and all the newness around me made it way more shiny.
As I was traveling solo my idea of a good time was not sitting in the bar so the ORCA charity talks appealed to me. The talk was about the North Sea, wildlife in it, how plastic is increasing and other interesting information. My first port of call was to check out the Wildlife Lounge where the talks are held, its not open the whole ferry journey but for a few hours only. For me, it is the best place to be, as the views are incredible. I sat there and listened to the talk whilst relaxing in the vastness and visuals of the ocean which is a calming experience.
ARRIVAL
On approach to IJmuiden ferry port there is an announcement telling everyone of the days arrival and timings. Once the ferry is in port, its through passport control to wait outside for the coaches to arrive to take everyone into Amsterdam central about 30 miles away.
This jouney is quick and the coach drop off point is close to Central Station near the Lovers canal boat trips, one which is recommended and can be pre booked on the ferry. I did this canal cruise and it’s a great way to get a feel of the City and the canal system.
AMSTERDAM CENTRAL
Once the coach drops you in the centre that’s it, time to explore, whether you have booked to be back the same day or in two days time, go make the most of the time in whatever way you can.
I pre booked a few extra nights in a hostel called Ecomama , which is highly recommended. It is a short walk from the City Centre. As soon as I had checked in I left my limited luggage and went walking to the local flea market, Waterlooplein Market, which is a stone throw away.
There are many options of things to do in the City. I did as much as possible in the 2 days and here are my recommendations.
Sandermans walking tour - When I first arrive in a City if time permits I always try and do a short walking tour to get my bearings and learn little bit about the City I am staying in. Its great to get a locals (guide) view of the City and knowledge, secret spots to explore
Pavement Pounding - I love walking a City, taking in the sights, sounds and sidestreets and getting lost, of course.
Ferry to NDSM/North - there are a few ferry routes in Amsterdam and they are FREE. I got one to the eye film museum and NDSM. I spent a while at NDSM exploring the area which is full of artspaces, workshops, open industrial space and streetart. If you are on a budget this is a great day out exploring for little money. A link to the routes available.
MuseumQuarter - A great place to visit many beautiful museums including Van Gogh and Moco.
Albert Cuyp market - This is a brilliant market where you'll find amazing food, cheese, freshly made stroopwaffles and juice drinks.
DEPARTURE DAY
Whether you choose to stay a few hours or days the departure place is the same as arrival. I was ready and waiting by around 2.30pm which is when the first coach arrives and by 3pm the coach set off.
On the way back I made myself comfy again and headed straight out onto the viewing deck at the back of the ship. This time the weather was much brighter and as I stood on the deck taking in the views I thought about how many lovely things I did in Amsterdam on a limited budget too.
I cannot recommend this journey enough and I would LOVE to explore more of the DFDS routes available soon. Fingers crossed it'll be soon.
Links to help you plan your trip
Hotels in Newcastle:
www.motel-one.com
www.roomzzz.com
www.sleeperz.com
www.easyhotel.com
Hostels:
albatrossnewcastle.co.uk
Amsterdam information:
www.amsterdam.info
www.neweuropetours.eu
www.holland.com
www.iamsterdam.com/en
www.amsterdamtips.com
www.getyourguide.co.uk
www.lovers.nl
DFDS:
www.dfdsseaways.co.uk
