Arriving in Amsterdam by cruise ship? Here’s everything you need in one place: which port you’re actually docking at, the full 2026 arrival and departure schedule, and whether a ship excursion or exploring on your own gets you more for your money.
📋 What’s in this guide
Where does your ship dock?
Amsterdam has two separate cruise terminals, and they’re not close to each other. Check your cruise documents for the terminal name, then pick the right guide below.
Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA)
Right in the city center, a 10-20 minute walk or tram ride from Centraal Station. Most cruise lines dock here.
Read the PTA guide →
IJmuiden cruise port
About 25 km outside Amsterdam, a real transfer by bus, train, taxi, or private car before you even reach the city.
Read the IJmuiden guide →When is your ship here?
Every confirmed 2026 cruise call at PTA, sourced from the official Cruise Port Amsterdam calendar, so you can plan your shore day around your ship’s actual arrival and departure time.
Amsterdam cruise ship schedule 2026
The full year, every ship and cruise line, with sources to double-check before you travel.
See the full schedule →Ship excursion or on your own?
Before you book anything at the shore excursion desk, it’s worth knowing the real price difference. We ran the actual numbers for the most popular stops.
Shore excursion price comparison
Real, sourced prices for the same trips, so you can decide with your own numbers instead of guessing at the desk.
Compare the prices →Getting around once you’re ashore
Once you know your port and your window of time, these guides cover the practical side of the day: public transport in Amsterdam, the Netherlands by train, and Amsterdam in one day if you want a ready-made plan for a short visit.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know which port my ship uses?
Check your cruise line’s documents or app for the terminal name. Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA) is in the city, IJmuiden is a separate terminal about 25 km outside it.
Is the 2026 schedule official?
It’s sourced from the official Cruise Port Amsterdam calendar. Times are guidelines set by each ship’s agent and can change, so always confirm with your cruise line close to your sail date.
Should I book my cruise line’s shore excursion?
It depends on your port, your schedule, and how comfortable you are getting around on your own. Our price comparison walks through the actual numbers for the most common stops.
Have a nice time in the Netherlands!
Last updated: 22 August 2026