Do you have a question about the ferry to Vlieland? Perhaps we already answered your question below. Frequently asked questions with answers regarding the ferry to Vlieland. Questions about parking, rates, schedule, reservations, etc.
Frequently asked questions ferry Vlieland
How long is a return ticket valid for?
A return ticket is valid until the date of you return journey, you do not have to travel to Vlieland and come back on the same day. You are allowed to stay on the island for multiple days.
What is the duration of the crossing?
From Harlingen to Vlieland (and from Vlieland to Harlingen) the crossing takes 90 minutes. With the fast ferry express service the crossing takes only 45 minutes.
Is there free WIFI available on the ferry to Vlieland?
Yes, there is free wireless internet (WIFI) available.
Can I take my dog on the ferry?
Dogs are allowed on the ferry service as well as on the express service, free of charge. You do not have to buy a ticket for your dog.
Are bicycles allowed on the express service?
It is allowed to bring a bicycle on the ferry, although you need to purchase a separate ticket for your bicycle. Bicycles are only allowed on the express service between Vlieland and Terschelling.
Is a scooter or tricycle allowed on the express service?
Yes, on both the ferry and the express service it is allowed to take a scooter or tricycle on board.
Vlieland is car-free, so you cannot bring your car to the island. Parking on Vlieland is therefore not possible. Only residents of the island, who are in possession of a special permit, may travel by car on the ferry to Vlieland. A permit for island visitors is only issued in very exceptional cases. As a visitor you will therefore have to look into parking in Harlingen.
Parking on Vlieland & transportation on the island
Because no cars are allowed on Vlieland, you will have to look for alternative transportation. The fastest way is by bus or taxi. When the ferry arrives at Vlieland you can easily board. On a sunny day you can rent a bike, which is the best way to discover this beautiful island.
Taking the bus as an alternative
On Vlieland, transport by bus is provided by Arriva Personenvervoer Nederland. You can find the timetable at all bus stops, but you can also pick it up at the VVV tourist office on Vlieland. In the summer there are different departure times than in the winter. You can buy a ticket on the bus and pay with your debit card or credit card. It is even easier to pay with your OV chip card.
Bus prices Vlieland
The price of a bus ticket starts at € 2.25
A ticket for the Buurtbus starts at € 1,30
A day pass for the Fryslân bus costs € 17,00 (discount rate: € 11,00)
A day pass combo ticket (Fryslân bus + Train + Qliner bus) costs € 21,00 (discounted rate)
A ticket for De Opstapper only costs € 2,50
Kids travel for free
Check out the complete and current rates on the Arriva website
Taxi Vlieland
If you prefer to go by taxi, you can call Taxi Zeelen (+31 562-451222). When the ferry arrives at Vlieland you can get on a taxi and you and your luggage will be brought to your final destination quickly. Taxi Zeelen also provides wheelchair transport.
Tuk Tuk
Do you like adventure and do you want to discover Vlieland in a unique way? Then go with the Tuk Tuk. This electrically driven taxi takes you to every spot on the island. Click here for more information.
Cycling on Vlieland
Vlieland is a perfect place for a nice bike ride. Therefore there are several locations to rent a bicycle on Vlieland. In addition to electric bicycles, mobility scooters and tandems, you can of course also rent a normal bicycle.
Some bicycle rental companies on Vlieland take your luggage to your final destination for free. After arrival by ferry you can leave your luggage at the rental place. The same is possible on the way back to the mainland.
Of course the ferry is faster, but perhaps it is much more fun to walk to a Wadden Island, the so-called mudflat hiking. Mudflat hiking is a sporting and unique adventure, in the middle of the nature of the World Heritage Wadden Sea. The Wadden Sea is also called the last wilderness and is an indescribably beautiful nature reserve.
Mudflat hiking to Vlieland
Because the gullies between Harlingen and Vlieland, also at low tide, are too deep, it is not possible to hike to Vlieland. It is possible to take a short walk during low tide. It takes about six to eight hours for the water to rise again. This is a wonderful experience.
The hike on the mudflats to Texel takes about 3.5 hours, the total length is about 11 kilometers. The trip goes along nature reserve De Schorren where you can admire the flora and fauna of the Wadden Sea. Mudflat hiking to Texel is not difficult because you walk on hard sand plates. This makes the trip suitable for the older kids (from 10 years). The collection point ‘Waddenpark Avanti’ is about 20 kilometers after arriving by the ferry to Texel.
Terschelling
The channels between Terschelling and Harlingen are also too deep to hike on.
Ameland
The mudflat hike to Ameland has a length of about 10 kilometers. The walk itself takes about 3 hours. This trip, especially in the beginning is slightly heavier than mudflat walking to Texel, due to the mud. From about halfway the surface is sandy. Walking across the mud flats to Ameland is suitable from the age of 14 years.
Schiermonnikoog
The hike from Lauwersoog to Schiermonnikoog is tough, takes almost 6 hours and is no less than 19 kilometers long. The subsoil consists of sand and mud alternately. The changing gullies and trenches and deep swallows are especially heavy in the coastal valley. Hiking across the mud flats to Schiermonnikoog is only suitable for hikers who are very experienced. In addition to the minimum age of 18, a very good condition, experience and stamina is also required.
In addition to the usual mudflat hiking trips you can also hike to and from other islands or sand flats. For example from the Zandplaat Brakzand to Schiermonnikoog, a trip of more than 11 kilometers.
Hiking to Rottumeroog, the island that is most east, is also possible. This is a very exclusive trip because it can only be organized a few times a year.
A hiking classic is the wanderings to the Engelsmanplaat, where is a Wadwachtpost. The journey is about 12 kilometers long and takes about 4 hours. The toughness is not so bad because the subsoil consists mostly of hard sandy soil.
More information about mudflat hiking
One of the pioneers in this area is Wadloopcentrum Fryslân. They have more than 50 years of experience.
The departures for the fast ferry from Vlieland to Terschelling are scheduled six times a week. The departure times for the Vlieland Terschelling express service are from 10.05 am to 7.05 pm. The departure times for the fast ferry from Terschelling to Vlieland, eight times a week, are from 9.30 am to 6.25 pm.
Important: this is a summary of the most common departures throughout the year. Most departures are only on certain days, periods or seasons. Always check the official timetable to and from Vlieland before you plan your trip.
Departures fast ferry Vlieland Terschelling
From Vlieland to Terschelling
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Sun
From Terschelling to Vlieland
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Sun
Note: if in doubt, always check the current departures on rederij-doeksen.nl or call the Contact Center on +31 88 – 9000 888.
Costs for the ferry to Vlieland
What are the Ferry Vlieland costs? How much does a ticket cost for the ferry to Vlieland? Check all ferry Vlieland costs below.
Costs for
Winter
Summer
Summer (off-peak)
The winter rates apply from January 1st to March 31st and from November 1st to December 31st. The summer rates apply from April 1st to October 31st.
Note: if in doubt, always check the current rates at rederij-doeksen.nl or call the Contact Center on +31 88 – 9000 888.
Parking for the ferry to Vlieland
Cars are not allowed on Vlieland. Only people who live on Vlieland and with a special permit are granted for parking their car on the ferry to Vlieland. Tourists and other non-residents of Vlieland must therefore leave their car in Harlingen and the surrounding area. A permit for non-residents is only issued in very exceptional cases. As a visitor you will therefore have to look for parking in Harlingen.
Parking ferry Vlieland
There are several options for parking for the ferry to Vlieland, both covered and uncovered parking. The most convenient option is parking in the parking garage of the ferry terminal. This parking garage is unfortunately not suitable for the people with disabilities, but is secured 24 hours a day. Follow the ANWB signs and you will automatically end up at one of the parking areas. In addition, there are several parking areas in the immediate vicinity of the ferry port where you can park for the ferry to Vlieland. If you park here then you can be transferred to the ferry with a shuttle bus. This only takes 5 minutes, there is a small fee of € 1.50. The shuttle bus driver takes the departure times from Harlingen to Vlieland into account. If you do not want to take the bus, you can also walk to the ferry port in approximately fifteen minutes.
During the summer period, sunny days and public holidays, it is often busy on the ferry to Vlieland. That is why it is advised to not to only look into the different parking options before your departure, but also the departure times of the ferry. In addition, it is recommended to reserve a little extra travel time in your schedule.
To Vlieland without a car
Vlieland is a car-free island, so you will not have a car at your disposal after arriving on the island. The cheapest way to travel to your final destination is by bus or a rented bicycle. Arriva offers a bus service on the island. Reserve a taxi if you like a little more convenience?
Are you traveling with the Vlieland ferry from Harlingen? The crossing takes around 90 minutes (or 45 minutes with the express service). The ferry to Vlieland departs three times a day, the ferry from Vlieland to Harlingen also has three departures a day.
The ferry that takes you to the island is called Vlieland and was built in 2005. This ferry has a capacity of 1200 people and 59 cars. If you take the fast ferry you will travel with the Tiger (2000) or with the Koegelwieck (1992). The Tiger has a capacity of 415 people (no cars), the Koegelwieck can carry a maximum of 312 people (and no cars as well).
Ferry tickets
Buying a ticket for the Vlieland ferry can be done in different ways: online, by telephone or on site at the counter in Harlingen (or on Vlieland and Terschelling). Buying tickets is based on reservations. The earlier you reserve, the more certain you are of a spot on the ferry. When you buy a ticket you can pick the time and date of your (out) journey. In the case of a return ticket, you also specify the time and date of your return trip. The time and date can be changed afterwards; online, at the counter or at a ticket machine.
Prices Vlieland ferry
Children under the age of four travel for free.
A return trip for a pedestrian (4 to 11 years old) with the ferry to Vlieland costs between € 10.76 and € 13.92.
A return trip for a pedestrian (12 to 64 years old) with the ferry to Vlieland costs between € 21.60 and € 27.94.
A return trip for a pedestrian (65 and older) with the ferry to Vlieland costs between € 19.38 and € 25.06.
View a more comprehensive overview of the ferry Vlieland prices. Or check the website of Rederij Doeksen for all rates.
Online
You can buy tickets online for the ferry to and from Vlieland on the Rederij Doeksen website.
By phone
You can buy (or make changes to) your ticket by phone by calling the Contact Center of Rederij Doeksen. The telephone number is +31 88 – 9000 888.
At the terminal counter
Another option for buying tickets is to visit the counter in Harlingen and Vlieland (or Terschelling). Tickets at the counter cost € 1.50 extra (service fee). There is no fee when you buy a ticket at the ticket machines in the terminals in Harlingen, Terschelling and Vlieland. You can change the time and date on your tickets at the ticket counter and at the ticket machines.
Practical information for the Vlieland ferry
Three times a day there is a departure from Harlingen to Vlieland. During the summer period this means that the ferry departs three times a day from Harlingen and also three times a day from Vlieland. During winter season there is only a fast service available on Monday (evening), Wednesday (evening), Thursday (evening), Saturday (evening) and Sunday (morning). You can see the exact and current timetable including exceptions on the Rederij Doeksen website.
Dogs and other pets can travel for free on the ferry, but you must keep your pet on a leash during the crossing. It is allowed to leave your pet in your car (unattended) during the crossing as long as it cannot get out of the car.
Parking in Harlingen
Parking in Harlingen and surrounding areas? There are various parking facilities, both covered and uncovered. A shuttle bus runs from almost all car parks and connects to the departure times. Due to crowds during the high season, events and holidays, it is recommended to reserve some extra travel time in connection with searching for a parking space. See the “Parking in Harlingen” page for more information.
Free WIFI
Free wireless internet (WIFI) is available on all ferries to and from Vlieland.
The schedule for the ferry from Vlieland to Harlingen consists of departures from 6.55 am to 6.55 pm. There is an average of three departures a day.
Important: the schedule below is a summary of the most common departures throughout the year. Most departures are only on certain days, periods or seasons. Always check the official ferry Vlieland schedule before departure.
Ferry departures Vlieland to Harlingen
Schedule Vlieland: normal ferry
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Sun
Fast ferry from Vlieland
The fast ferry express service fromVlieland to Harlingen has no regular timetable and only departs on certain days in certain periods.
Note: if in doubt, always check the current departure schedule on rederij-doeksen.nl or call the Contact Center on +31 88 – 9000 888.
The schedule for the ferry from Harlingen to Vlieland consists of departures from 9.00 am to 7 pm. There is an average of three departures a day.
Important: the schedule below is a summary of the most common departures throughout the year. Most departures are only on certain days, periods or seasons. Always check the official ferry Vlieland schedule before departure.
Ferry departures Harlingen to Vlieland
Schedule Harlingen: normal ferry
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Sun
Fast ferry from Harlingen
The fast ferry express service from Harlingen to Vlieland has no regular timetable and only departs on certain days in certain periods.
Note: if in doubt, always check the current departure schedule on rederij-doeksen.nl or call the Contact Center on +31 88 – 9000 888.
In a hurry? Or missed the last Vlieland Ferry? Contact the Waddentaxi Vlieland. The Waddentaxi Vlieland brings you quick and safe from the mainland to the island. A maximum of twelve people can board De Zeehond (The Seal), so reservations are recommended. There is enough luggage space on the boat and coffee and tea are complimentary.
Waddentaxi Vlieland private and exclusive rental
It is also possible to rent the Waddentaxi Vlieland exclusively, based on your needs and wishes. The Waddentaxi also offers trips to the other Wadden islands; Texel, Terschelling, Ameland and Schiermonnikoog.
Travel time
The Waddentaxi sails a lot faster than the regular ferry to Vlieland. Within an hour you will be taken from Harlingen to Vlieland (or Terschelling). The trip between the two islands takes only half an hour.
Waddentaxi Vlieland costs
The prices below do not include tourist tax, but include VAT and transport (by taxi) from the marina on Vlieland to your final destination on the island.
A one way ticket from Harlingen to Vlieland (or vice versa) costs € 24,05, a return ticket is € 43,90.
A one way ticket from Harlingen to Terschelling (or vice versa) costs € 24,05, a return ticket is € 43,90.
A one way ticket from Vlieland to Terschelling (or vice versa) costs € 24,05, a return ticket is € 43,90.
Single ticket Waddentaxi Vlieland
In addition to the regular departure times, the Waddentaxi also has custom departures. The costs are € 35.00 per person. You can check departure times on Twitter.
Boarding location Waddentaxi
The boarding location for the Waddentaxi to Vlieland is the new Sassteiger, near the Sasbrug (bridge), in Harlingen. The final destination on Vlieland is the marina (Havenweg), where the boat arrives. It is possible to make arrangements for other boarding and arrival locations, just contact the Waddentaxi company for this.
Luggage
Although there is enough room for luggage on the Waddentaxi Vlieland, there are some guidelines. Three pieces of luggage per person are allowed. You may also bring carry-on luggage on the boat. Every passenger can take a bicycle (+ bicycle trailer) with them.
Staff party, excursion or wedding on Vlieland
Renting the Waddentaxi exclusively is a perfect idea for staff parties, excursions or wedding parties. You can set your own departure times. A complete overview of all costs and possibilities can be found on the Waddentaxi website.
Bring your bicycle or dog to Vlieland
You can bring one bicycle per person on board, free or charge. Vlieland is a great island for a nice bike ride. Scooters, carts, etc. are not allowed on the boat. Dogs are allowed on the boat to Vlieland, also free of charge. You don’t have to buy a separate ticket for your pet.
Kids and people with disabilities
The maximum number of twelve people that can board the Waddentaxi includes babies and children. Due to limited facilities, the Waddentaxi is unfortunately not suitable for people with disabilities and wheelchair users. The Waddentaxi can be used for emergency or patient transport.
Hotel Vlieland: there are plenty hotels on Vlieland. There is a choice of many types of hotels and other accommodations; from cheap 2 star to luxury 4 star hotels. The hotels on Vlieland are spread throughout the island. Besides hotels, you can also book a Bed & Breakfast on Vlieland, but also a resort village, vacation home, apartment, guest house, villa, chalet or Airbnb.
Looking for a place to stay on Vlieland? On Vlieland there is enough choice to stay in a cozy hotel. Enjoy a nice accommodation on the beautiful island and unwind. Vlieland has a wide range of hotels.
Genius is the loyalty program of Booking.com where every booking counts. Genius members receive discounts on thousands of accommodations worldwide. The more bookings you make as a Genius member, the more discounts and rewards you receive.
What are the prices for a ticket for the ferry to Vlieland? What is the price for the Vlieland ferry? Tickets can be purchased at the ferry port or online on the website of Rederij Doeksen, which shows extensive and always accurate rates. Also check the departure times to Vlieland to plan your trip as good as possible.
Ferry Vlieland prices
Children under the age of four travel for free.
A return trip for a pedestrian (4 to 11 years old) with the ferry to Vlieland costs between € 10.76 and € 13.92.
A return trip for a pedestrian (12 to 64 years old) with the ferry to Vlieland costs between € 21.60 and € 27.94.
A return trip for a pedestrian (65 and older) with the ferry to Vlieland costs between € 19.38 and € 25.06.
Fast ferry to Vlieland prices
A ticket for the fast ferry to Vlieland costs € 7.10 (one way) or € 14.20 (return) for young children (0 to 3 years).
For older children (4 to 11 years) a ticket for the express service to Vlieland costs € 14.94 (one way) or € 27.64 (return).
A ticket for the fast ferry service to Vlieland costs € 22.82 (one way) or € 41.20 (return) for adults (12 to 64 years).
A ticket for the express service to Vlieland costs € 21.68 (one way) or € 38.42 (return) for people over 65.
Tickets ferry Harlingen Vlieland
You can buy a ticket for the ferry to Vlieland in different ways; via the website of Rederij Doeksen, by telephone or on site at the counter in Harlingen (or on the islands Vlieland and Terschelling). Buying tickets is based on reservations. The earlier you reserve, the more certain you are of a seat on the ferry. You buy a ticket with the time and date of your (out) journey. In the case of a return ticket, you also specify the time and date of your return trip. The time and date can be changed afterwards; online, at the counter or at a ticket machine.
Buy tickets online
You can buy tickets for the ferry to and from Vlieland at the Rederij Doeksen website.
Telefonisch kaartje kopen
You can buy (or change the details of) a ticket by phone by calling the Contact Center of Rederij Doeksen. The telephone number is +31 88 – 9000 888.
Buy tickets for the ferry to Vlieland at the terminal
Another option for buying tickets is at the counter in Harlingen (or on the islands Vlieland and Terschelling). There is an additional service fee of € 1.50 when you buy tickets at the terminal counter. There is no fee when you buy a ticket at the ticket machines at the terminals in Harlingen, Terschelling and Vlieland. You can change the date and time of your tickets at the ticket counter and at the ticket machines.
No cars are allowed on Vlieland, so tourists and other non-residents of Vlieland have to park their car somewhere in Harlingen. Where to park in Harlingen? There are various parking facilities in and around Harlingen, both covered and uncovered.
A shuttle bus runs from almost all car parks that connects to the departure times of the Vlieland ferry. Due to crowds during the high season, during events and around the holidays, it is recommended to reserve some extra travel time when searching for a parking space.
The most convenient way to park in Harlingen is the parking garage of the ferry terminal. Security is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for this facility. Because the parking garage is connected the terminal, you can easily board the ferry to Vlieland. If this parking is full then there are plenty of other options for parking for the ferry to Vlieland.
Charging stations for electric cars
Charging stations for electric cars are available at various locations.
Parking garage “Veerterminal”
Parking lot “Tsjerk Hiddes”
Zuiderhaven 54, 8861 XV Harlingen
Koningsweg 3, 8861 KN Harlingen
Korte Lijnbaan 25, 8861 NS Harlingen
Directions
Car parking in Harlingen
From the Afsluitdijk (A7) you follow the N31. If you are arriving from Leeuwarden, follow the A31. Via the ANWB signs you get directed to the ferry port of Harlingen. Enter ‘Waddenpromenade 5, 8861 NT Harlingen’ on your GPS for the correct route to the port of Harlingen.
By train
Harlingen is easily reached by train. The train from Leeuwarden has regular departures to Harlingen. From the “Harlingen Haven” station you can walk to the ferry terminal in about five minutes. You can charge your OV chip card at a service point at the train station and at the Albert Heijn grocery store, opposite the train station.
By bus
Harlingen is also easily accessible by bus. Please check www.9292ov.nl for more information.
Are you visiting Vlieland and also want to travel to Terschelling? This is possible with the ferry from Vlieland to Terschelling. The ferry service provides one way and return trips.
Travel information ferry from Vlieland to Terschelling
It’s recommended to buy tickets in advanced. This can be done online.
Costs
One way ticket
Children up to 4 years old: € 5,57 one way, € 9,14 return ticket
Passenger 4-11 years old: € 5,84 one way, € 11,68 return ticket
Passenger 12-64 years old: € 8,58 one way, € 17,16 return ticket
Passenger 65 and older: € 7,74 one way, € 15,48 return ticket
Schedule
From Vlieland to Terschelling
During the summer you can take the fast ferry from Vlieland to Terschelling several times a week. The departure times are 10.05 am, 12.05 pm, 18.55 pm and 8.20 pm. View the departure times of the fast ferry.
From Terschelling to Vlieland
During the summer you can take the express service from Terschelling to Vlieland several times a week. The departure times are 9.30 am and 6.20 pm. View the timetable of the express service.
This timetable may vary during weekends, holidays, events and public holidays. A complete overview of sailings and possible changes can be found on rederij-doeksen.nl.
What to do on Terschelling
On Terschelling there is much to do for all age groups. There is a total of more than 350 kilometers of hiking trails and cycle paths on the island. It’s easy to rent a bike on Terschelling so you can explore the island and the charming villages at your own pace. Terschelling also has the widest beach in Europe, which makes the island very suitable for beautiful beach walks. Are you planning to spend the night on Terschelling? Then don’t forget to book a hotel, cottage or other accommodation online.
Are you visiting Vlieland and you also want to visit Texel? In the summer it is possible for tourists to take the ferry from Vlieland to Texel. Vice versa is also possible of course. The ferry De Vriendschap is only available for pedestrians and takes you by ferry from Vlieland to Texel. After arrival the boat there is a free transfer by a large truck that will take you to the Wadden Island of Vlieland via the beach.
You can take your bike with you when you book a single trip with the ferry from from Vlieland to Texel. Many cyclists make use of this possibility to make bike trips across the islands. This makes the ferry from from Vlieland to Texel a very nice way of traveling, because the ship is not too big and that makes the crossing an adventure in itself.
Travel information ferry from Vlieland to Texel
From Vlieland to Texel: the crossing
The crossing takes about an hour and starts at the famous wooden jetty on Oost Vlieland.
It is recommended to purchase tickets online in advance.
Costs
Transportation from Het Posthuys
A ticket includes transport (with the Vliehors Expres) from the jetty to Het Posthuys on Vlieland. From there you can continue on your bike, there is also a bus. With the car from Texel to Vlieland is not possible with the ferry De Vriendschap.
Departures (one way ticket)
The departure time of the ferry from Vlieland to Texel is 5.15 pm. In the high season there is a chance of an extra departure, then a ferry leaves at 4 pm.
Departures (day trip return)
When you have booked a day trip to Texel, the ferry departs from Vlieland at 10.45 am. The return trip back to Vlieland departs at 5.15 pm. In high season there is a chance of an extra departure.
Timetable and schedule ferry from Vlieland to Texel
During the summer (mid-July to the end of August there is a daily departure to Texel.
During the preseason (until mid-July) the boat crosses from Vlieland to Texel on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday.
During the fall (September) there are departures on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday.
During the late season (October) the boat only sails on Tuesdays and Sundays.
During the fall break there is a chance of extra departures.
What to do on Vlieland? The island of Vlieland is a popular destination and despite the nickname Vliebiza (derived from Ibiza) there are activities for all ages. Are you looking for relaxation? Go cycling or hiking to enjoy the beautiful Vlieland nature. With only 36 square kilometers, the island is the smallest inhabited island of the Netherlands and there are therefore relatively few tourists. Are you visiting the island with children? Take them to the lighthouse or the exciting escape room.
What to do on Vlieland? Spotting seals!
Seal watching is a popular activity on Vlieland for all age groups. A boat will bring you towards the seals so you can watch them as close as possible, when they are laying in the sun on a sandbar.
Image: 1000zen/Flickr
One of the nicest Vlieland activities: the lighthouse
When you walk all the way up in the lighthouse of Vlieland you can enjoy a beautiful view over the island. The tower stands on a forty meter high dune and when the weather is clear the neighbouring Wadden islands Texel and Terschelling can be seen.
The Vliehors Expres is a perfect example of what to do on Vlieland
On Vlieland there is a sand plain that is nicknamed the Sahara of the North, a vast area of no less than 20 square kilometers. The Vliehors Expres company offers trips with a big truck to this sand plain almost on a daily basis. Along the way there is much to see.
Horseback riding on the beaches of Vlieland
Relax during a beautiful horseback ride on the beaches or through the forests and dunes of Vlieland. Horseback riding on Vlieland is possible via the many bridle paths that can be found all over the island. This activity is fun for all ages. You can ride horses under the guidance of experienced riders on Vlieland.
Yoga and surfing on Vlieland
A very hip activity to do is yoga and surfing. You can both relax and be active during a weekend holiday through provider Surfana. In addition, tasty and healthy food is also offered, just like enjoying the relaxed beach life where everything is allowed and nothing is required. You can spend the night in different ways, from a tipi tent to tent houses. The mini vacation starts on Friday when you arrive by the Vlieland ferry at the island. That evening you can meet the other participants. The activities mainly take place on Saturdays.
Cycling on Vlieland
Cycling on Vlieland is a relaxing activity since Vlieland is a car-free island. There are more than 26 kilometers of cycle paths, all over the island, for you to discover. This way you can explore the island via the various cycle routes. Read more about cycling on Vlieland.
What to do on Vlieland when it rains… go on an exciting adventure in an escape room! In the escape room on Vlieland you must find the solution to a game within the available time and together with your teammates. All kinds of hidden clues can be found in the escape room to help you solve the puzzle. Check out escaperoomvlieland.com for more info.
Soon you can read more information about what to do on Vlieland.
Soon you can read more information about cycling on Vlieland.
Soon you can read more information about hiking on Vlieland.
Are you looking for the departures for the ferry to Vlieland? The ferry to and from Vlieland has many departure times. The ferry to Vlieland departs from Harlingen three times a day. The trip takes approximately 90 minutes. On the mainland, in Harlingen, bus connections are available after all arrivals.
Are you in a hurry or do you want to save time? Then take the fast ferry to Vlieland. Then the crossing takes only half the time (45 minutes). If you have missed the boat, or the regular departure times do not fit in your schedule, then you can book the Waddentaxi. The costs of this are slightly higher, but you set your own departure times. The crossing takes about an hour.
The departure times of the ferry to Harlingen are from 6.55 am to 6.55 pm. There is an average of three departures a day.
6.55 uur (every day)
10.05 uur (fast ferry, only on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday)
11.45 uur (every day)
12.05 uur (fast ferry, only on Friday)
15.20 (fast ferry, only on Friday, Saturday and Sunday)
16.45 uur (every day)
18.55 uur (fast ferry, only on Sunday)
More information
Please note: the above departure times are indicative, to which exceptions. For the current departure times, changes, etc. always check the website of Rederij Doeksen or call the contact center: +31 88 – 9000 888. There you can find more information about the ferry to and from Vlieland. Click here for more information about parking in Harlingen.
Soon you can read more information about the fast ferry to Vlieland and the express service.
The ferry to Vlieland
If you want to visit Vlieland, your journey begins on the Ferry Vlieland. Rederij Doeksen, who operates the ferry service to Vlieland, brings you safely from the mainland in Harlingen to Vlieland, the smallest Wadden Island inhabited. With Texel on the south side and Terschelling on the east side, Vlieland is a popular destination among tourists from around the world.
Ferry Vlieland departures
The crossing from the mainland to Vlieland takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. With the express service, also called fast ferry, the trip only takes about 45 minutes (directly from Harlingen to Vlieland). What time is the last departure to Vlieland? Read more about the departure times for the Vlieland ferry or the express service.
The ferry services provides many crossings every year to this beautiful destination. The Wadden Island is car-free, which means that no vehicles are allowed on Vlieland. That makes the island very suitable for a nice hike or bike ride. Vlieland is also known for its many events. The Vuurtorenloop (lighthouse run), the Schuttevaer race and the Here Comes The Summer music festival attract many visitors every year. All the more reason to travel by the ferry from Harlingen to Vlieland.
To the island Vlieland by taking the Doeksen ferry
If you travel to the island by bicycle you can use the special bicycle access at the terminal. At the terminal you will find signs that indicate the entrance to x departures. If you wish to take your car to the island, by means of an exemption, you must report to the designated counter at the terminal in Harlingen before departure. Your reservation will be checked here, after which you can board one of the ferries of Rederij Doeksen.
Ferry Vlieland prices and costs
Children at the age from 0 to 3 years old can travel for free with the ferry from Harlingen to Vlieland, accompanied by an adult. You can also bring your dog on the ferry for free, as long as it’s on a lead and not within the pet-free zones. Please note that the ferry MS Midsland does not have a lift on board. This is perhaps less suitable if you want to travel with your dog.
Ferry trip to Vlieland: bookings and reservations
You can buy a ticket for the ferry to Vlieland in different ways. Online, by telephone or on site at the counter in Harlingen or on Vlieland (and the island Terschelling). Buying tickets is based on reservations. The earlier you make a reservation, the more certain you are of a seat on the ferry. You buy a ticket with the time and date of your (out) journey. In the case of a return ticket, you also specify the time and date of your return trip. The time and date can be changed afterwards (online, at the counter or at a ticket machine).
Facilities during the crossing from Harlingen to Vlieland
During the crossing from the mainland to Vlieland you can use various facilities on board. Both ferries from Rederij Doeksen have a self-service restaurant, where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast, coffee with cake or an extensive meal. Ordering from a menu is also possible. Arrangements can be made for people who have food allergies.
The ferry also includes a bar. Here you can enjoy music, a snack and a drink. You will also find various kiosks on board the ships with magazines and souvenirs. The ferry from Harlingen to Vlieland also has luggage lockers, free WiFi and various sanitary rooms that are also suitable for the disabled.
If you take the ferry to the island, your journey begins at the terminal in Harlingen. You can park your car here if you travel from Harlingen to Vlieland. After you park, a shuttle bus will take you from the parking area to the terminal. In the Parlevinker terminal in Harlingen you can find a large store with various delicacies from the island, magazines and nice souvenirs. You can also check in yourself for the crossing at the terminal and place your luggage in the designated carts. Two pieces of carry on luggage is allowed per person.
Bring bicycles, cars, motorbikes and dogs on the ferry
Passengers, bicycles and dogs are allowed on the ferry. Cars, motorbikes and trailers may also be brought on the ferry, but a so-called T Permit is required. You can do request a permit at the municipality of Vlieland. Only with this permit can you reserve a place for your car on the ferry. The car can be parked on board the ferry on the instructions of the staff.
