Ferries in Amsterdam:
info, tickets, lines & tips for passengers
- The ferries operated by the municipal transport company GVB are an important part of Amsterdam’s public transport system.
- They connect the city center with the Amsterdam North district and also offer a free opportunity to explore the city from the water.
This guide will tell you everything you need to know about using the ferries, sightseeing tips, and information about public transport tickets.
Why are there ferries in Amsterdam?
- The IJ waterway separates Amsterdam’s city centre from the district of Amsterdam Noord.
- As there are no bridges in this area and the IJ is relatively wide, the blue-and-white ferries play a central role in public transport.
- They provide a fast and reliable connection between both banks and carry more than 20 million passengers each year.
- For this reason, the ferries are an important part of Amsterdam’s public transport system. Like the metro, trams and buses, they are operated by the municipal transport company GVB.
- The ferries do not travel through the historic canals in the city centre. A crossing therefore does not replace a classic sightseeing canal cruise.
➡️ More information and tips on sightseeing by boat can be found here
The IJ separates Amsterdam Noord from the city centre. The ferries (dotted blue) offer a fast connection.
GVB ferries – lines and connections
There are currently eight lines in operation, three of which originate directly at the central train station (Centraal Station).
- Vehicles accepted: Ferries transport pedestrians, bicycles, mopeds and motor scooters. Cars are only transported on the “Hempontplein – Zaandam” route, and there is a charge for this.
- Costs: Use of most ferries is free for pedestrians, cyclists and moped riders.
- Travel times and operating times: The ferries usually run from early in the morning until late at night, and sometimes around the clock.
The GVB ferries are part of the local transport system in Amsterdam. The central stop is Amsterdam Centraal station (Photo: travelguide.amsterdam)
Pedestrians, cyclists and moped riders do not need a ticket on the ferry. Use of the ferry is free of charge. (Image: travelguide.amsteram)
Schedule, timing, and operating times of the ferries
Here is an overview of the ferries in Amsterdam.
Ferries in Amsterdam – free sightseeing
- Line F3 Buiksloterwegveer: Fast connection to the EYE Film Museum and Tolhuistuin
The F3 Buiksloterwegveer line is very popular with visitors to the city. The route is only about 400 meters long. This is how you can quickly reach the EYE Film Museum or the Tolhuistuin. The beautifully designed garden is located on the former Shell site and, with the Tolhuistuin Pavilion, is a popular venue for art events. - Line F4 to NDSM shipyard: free sightseeing tour of the harbor
This former shipyard has been transformed into a trendy artists’ quarter. Here you will find the Straat Museum for street art and graffiti, unique restaurants and cafés with a view of the water. A visit to the NDSM shipyard is particularly worthwhile during the regular flea markets and art events.
- The use of the GVB ferries is free for pedestrians and cyclists (as of 2026).
The site of the former NSDM shipyard. The ferry ride to this interesting district is a nice and free sightseeing tour. (Image: travelguide.amsterdam)
The site of the former NSDM shipyard is now an interesting artists’ quarter. The well-known Straat Museum for street art and graffiti is also located here. Many individual restaurants and cafés offer an interesting culinary experience. An exciting contrast to the historic city center of Amsterdam.
On the return trip with ferry F4, there are beautiful motifs to photograph.
Discovering Amsterdam: By Ferry or on a Canal Cruise?
The free GVB ferries across the IJ are convenient for short crossings, but they offer little in terms of views of the old town or the canal belt.
The classic sights of Amsterdam’s famous canals, bridges, and merchant houses can only truly be experienced on a canal cruise through the historic canal belt.
Whether during the day or in the evening, a canal cruise offers unique views of Amsterdam (image: © John Barton).
Tickets for the public transport system in Amsterdam: Which ticket option is best for me?
Whether single ride via e-purse, also referred to as OV-card, all-day ticket, “I Amsterdam Card”, or “Amsterdam Travel Card”, you will find detailed information for all, as well as current fares here. It allows you to quickly and easily find the right ticket option for your stay in Amsterdam.
Researching all your options in advance and knowing which ticket option is best for you will save you money, time and avoid stressful situations once you arrive.
Our tip:
Single-day and multi-day tickets for Amsterdam’s public transport system are usually the best option for visitors.
- These tickets allow unlimited use of the metro, GVB buses, trams and ferries for the entire period of validity (1–7 days).
- Compared to other major European cities, these tickets are reasonably priced. For 2026, fares range from €6.15 to €10 per day, depending on the length of validity.
Convenience:
You can purchase these tickets online before your trip at no additional cost 👉 via the website of the authorised GVB ticket seller – click here –. You will not have to deal with ticket machines or the tariff system upon your arrival.
This means you won’t have to deal with ticket machines or fare systems after arrival. Your ticket will already be available on your smartphone.This saves time and reduces stress, allowing you to focus on enjoying your stay in Amsterdam.
Ferries – FAQ 2026
How much does a ferry ticket cost in Amsterdam 2026?
GVB ferries are free for pedestrians and cyclists. To find out which ferry line is best for a harbour tour and other tips, see our travel guide.
Which ferry line offers a free harbour cruise in Amsterdam?
For a short, free sightseeing tour of the harbor, we recommend taking ferry 906 to the former NDSM shipyard. The area is now an interesting artists’ quarter. The well-known Straat Museum for street art and graffiti is also located here. The use of the GVB ferries in Amsterdam is free. You don’t need a ticket.
Are the ferries in Amsterdam really free?
Yes, the use of the GVB ferries is free for pedestrians, cyclists and moped riders. More information can be found in our online travel guide.
How often do the ferries in Amsterdam run?
Most lines run every 5 to 10 minutes. At peak times, there are more frequent departures.
More information can be found in our online travel guide.
Do the ferries run on Sundays?
Hello Teloa,
yes, the ferries run on Sundays.