Vlieland Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

The primary gateway to Vlieland is via ferry service from Harlingen on the Dutch mainland, with crossings taking approximately 90 minutes. From Amsterdam, reach Harlingen in about two hours by train or car, while travelers from Groningen can make the journey in roughly the same time. The ferry terminal in Harlingen is well-connected to the city center by local buses, and ample paid parking is available near the terminal for those arriving by car. Consider booking your ferry tickets in advance during summer months and holidays when services can fill quickly.

Nestled in the stunning Wadden Sea, Vlieland stands as the second westernmost inhabited Dutch Wadden island, offering a peaceful retreat from mainland bustle. With just one charming village, no cars allowed, and kilometers of pristine beaches, this island embodies Dutch coastal serenity at its finest. Vlieland's unique combination of dense forests, sprawling dunes, and rich maritime heritage makes it an ideal ferry destination for nature lovers and those seeking authentic island atmosphere.

Summer (June through August) brings warm temperatures around 20-25°C, making it perfect for beach activities and water sports, though this is also when the island sees its highest visitor numbers. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and special charm with blooming wildflowers or golden autumn colors. Winter provides a dramatically different experience with bracing North Sea winds and a truly secluded atmosphere, ideal for storm-watching and cozy evenings. Ferry services run year-round but with reduced frequency during winter months, while summer sees additional daily departures.

From Vlieland, the neighboring island of Terschelling is easily accessible via a short 45-minute ferry hop, offering wider cycling paths and the famous Brandaris lighthouse. Continue your Wadden island exploration to Ameland (reached via connection through the mainland), known for its charming villages and distinctive lighthouse with horizontal stripes. For a day trip, consider Texel, the largest Dutch Wadden island, reachable by connecting through the mainland, famous for its local lamb, diverse landscapes, and excellent seafood. The journey between these islands creates a spectacular maritime route through the UNESCO World Heritage Wadden Sea, with chances to spot seals and diverse birdlife along the way.

Cycle along Vlieland's 20+ kilometers of dedicated paths that wind through diverse landscapes, from dense forests to sweeping dunes and past the iconic Vuurtoren Vuurduin lighthouse. Explore the village of Oost-Vlieland with its historic maritime buildings, quaint shops, and the Museum Tromp's Huys showcasing the island's rich history. Sample fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, particularly the locally caught sole and shrimp, paired with Dutch beer from the island's own brewery. Nature enthusiasts should join a guided wadlopen (mudflat walking) excursion during low tide or visit the Vliehors, an expansive sand flat often called 'the Sahara of the North' that dominates the western end of the island.

Vlieland is the least populated Dutch Wadden island with fewer than 1,200 permanent residents, creating a tight-knit community where nearly everyone knows each other. The island once had two villages, but West-Vlieland was completely swallowed by the sea in the 18th century during a massive storm, with legends saying church bells can sometimes be heard from beneath the waves. Despite its small size, Vlieland hosts the annual 'Into The Great Wide Open' festival, bringing contemporary music and arts to this remote location. The island's name derives from the Old Frisian 'fli', meaning 'flowing water', referencing the strong currents that have shaped its coastline for centuries.