Ferries in Amsterdam:
info, tickets, lines & tips for passengers
The ferries of the GVB (Gemeentelijk Vervoerbedrijf) are a popular means of transport in Amsterdam. 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 city centre of Amsterdam is separated from the Amsterdam North district by the IJ, an inlet of the Zuiderzee. This inlet is relatively wide. There is no bridge in the city centre.
The IJ estuary separates Amsterdam city center from the Amsterdam Noord district. Due to the width of the IJ and the lack of bridges in this area, the blue and white ferries are an essential part of the local transport system. They provide a fast and efficient connection for over 20 million passengers a year.
Just like the Metro, trams, and buses, the boats are operated by the public transport company GVB.
Ferry trips are ideal for visitors looking for a low-cost alternative to classic sightseeing tours or harbor cruises.
Map with ferry connections
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 901/907 Buiksloterwegveer: Fast connection to the EYE Film Museum and Tolhuistuin
The 901/907 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 906 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 2025).
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 906, there are beautiful motifs to photograph.
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:
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 as well as trams for the entire period of validity (1 – 7 days). Use of the ferries is always free of charge.
These tickets are rather inexpensive for a European metropolitan city. For 2025 fares range between €6.10 and €9.50 a day, depending on period of validity
You can buy your tickets online and in advance at no extra 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 saves time and makes planning easier – after all, you will have better things to do in Amsterdam…
Ferries – FAQ 2025
How much does a ferry ticket cost in Amsterdam 2025?
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.