The GVB ferries are very popular with visitors to Amsterdam. As well as crossing the IJ estuary, you can also take a short tour of the harbour on the ferries.
Best of all, the ferries are free to use in Amsterdam.
In this guide you will find all the important information for passengers and practical tips for using the 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.
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 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). The ferries transport pedestrians, bicycles, mopeds, and scooters. Cars are only being transported on the “Hempontplein – Zaandam” ferry, and for a fee.
Here is an overview of the ferries in Amsterdam.
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.
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 2024 fares range between €5.85 and €9 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.
That saves time and nerves – after all, you will have better things to do in Amsterdam…
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.
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.