Ferries in Amsterdam:
info, tickets, lines & tips for passengers

The city center of Amsterdam and the district “Amsterdam North” are separated by the IJ, a former inlet of the Zuiderzee. That is why the blue and white ferries are a common sight and part of Amsterdam’s public transportation system.

Last year the ferries transported more than 20 million passengers. Just like the Metro, trams, and buses, the boats are operated by the public transport company GVB.

The GVB ferries are part of the local transport system in Amsterdam. The central stop is Amsterdam Centraal station (Photo: travelguide.amsterdam)

GVB ferries – lines and connections

There are currently eight lines in operation, three of which originate directly at the central train station (Centraal Station). The ferries transport pedestrians, bicycles, mopeds, and scooters. Cars are only being transported on the “Hempontplein – Zaandam” ferry, and for a fee.

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 you will find an overview of the ferries in Amsterdam. The dotted lines on the map depict the ferry connections.

Ferries in Amsterdam – free sightseeing

• The line “901/907 Buiksloterwegveer” is popular with visitors of the city. The route is a mere 400 meters long. You will quickly reach the film museum “EYE” or “Tolhuistuin”. The beautifully landscaped garden is located on the former Shell property. In combination with the Tolhuistuin Pavillion it is a popular location for cultural events.
• For a short, free sightseeing tour in the harbour, we recommend taking ferry 906 to the former NDSM shipyard. Today this site is an interesting artists’ quarter. There is also the well-known Straat Museum for street art and graffiti. Several individual restaurants and cafés offer not only an interesting culinary offer, but also a wonderful view of the water.
  

  The site of the former NSDM shipyard. The ferry ride to this interesting district is a nice and free sightseeing tour. (Image: travelguide.amsterdam)

• Rides onboard the GVB ferries are free of charge for pedestrians and bicyclists.

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 options upfront and knowing which ticket option works best for you, will save you money and time after arrival and prevent stressful situations.

Our tip:

The single-day or multi-day tickets that are available for the public transport system in Amsterdam are typically the best choices for visitors.

These tickets allow unlimited use of the Metro (subway), GVB bus system, trams, as well as ferries for the entire period of validity (1 – 7 days).

These tickets are rather inexpensive for a European metropolitan city. For 2023 fares range between €5.85 and €9 a day, depending on period of validity