Transport on Ameland
Many visitors on Ameland travel by foot or bicycle, but there are of course other ways to get around the island. Below you can read about the options available, so that you can start your holiday well prepared.
Or first read more about the ferry trip to Ameland.
Exploring the island by bicycle
You can bring your own bicycle on the ferry or rent one when you are on the island. There is a bicycle rental shop in the harbour of Ameland, but you can also rent bicycles at the campsite, through Nobel or at Metz.
Ameland has an extensive network of walking and cycling paths that connect the villages, dunes, forests and beaches. This makes walking and cycling popular and enjoyable ways to explore the island.
Travelling around the island by bus
The island has a good bus network connecting the various villages and places of interest.
Upon arrival on Ameland, you can hop on the bus right at the harbour, which also stops at Strandcamping Duinoord. The driver will announce the stops. From there, it is only a 1-minute walk to the reception.
You can travel on the buses on Ameland with your "OV-chipkaart" (Dutch transportation card) or easily check in and out with your debit or credit card. Tickets can also be purchased on the bus, but these can only be paid for by debit card, not cash. You can top up your OV-chipkaart on the bus and at the Primera on Ameland.
There are three bus routes on Ameland:
- Route 1, the route between the ferry port, Nes, Ballum and Hollum.
- Route 2, the route between the ferry port, Buren, Nes beach, Nes and the ferry port.
- Route 3, the route between Hollum, Ballum, Nes (village) and the ferry port.
Various adjustments have been made for people with disabilities, so that they can also easily use bus transport on the island. View the special stops.
View the current timetable at 9292.nl
Taxi
Taxis are also available on Ameland. Taxi de Boer and Cosi-Tax will take you wherever you want to go.
Car
There are not that many cars on Ameland, which contributes to the peaceful atmosphere. However, you can bring your own car to Ameland.
Strandcamping Duinoord is a car-free campsite. Upon arrival, you can first unload your luggage and then park your car in the campsite's central car park (paid) or in a free public car park just outside the campsite (850 metres).
Travelling to Ameland without a car
Would you like to travel to Ameland without a car, without stress or heavy luggage, and start your holiday on this beautiful island feeling relaxed? Then our Ameland luggage service is perfect for you! Our new service ensures your luggage or camping equipment is transported safely and comfortably from Holwerd directly to our campsite.
Frequently asked questions about transport on Ameland
Route and crossing
- How do I get to the campsite from the boat?
If you come by car, you can drive directly to the campsite. Also, you can rent a bike, your luggage will be brought to the campsite. Buses and taxis are also available from the quay. These will take you directly to the campsite.
- How do I book tickets for the ferry to Ameland?
You can book your ticket for the crossing to Ameland via Wagenborg Passagiersdiensten.
- Can I take my car on the ferry to Ameland?
Yes, the boat leaves from Holwerd and your car can come along. Just make sure you book in advance and do not take the express service. No means of transport is allowed on the express service.
- Where does the ferry to Ameland depart from?
The crossing to Ameland starts in the small town of Holwerd in the province of Friesland. From there, the ferry sails to the island several times a day. Holwerd is located directly on the Wadden Sea and is the only port of departure for Ameland.
- How much does the ferry to Ameland cost?
The cost of the ferry to Ameland depends on the number of passengers and any vehicles. Pedestrians and cyclists pay a lower price than motorists or motorhome owners. In addition, a small tourist tax is charged per person.
- How much does the ferry to Ameland cost with a car?
Prices for the ferry to Ameland with a car start at €103.50 for cars up to 5.5 metres long. Additional costs and tourist tax per passenger apply. It is not necessary to bring your car, as Ameland can also be easily explored without one.
- What does the ferry crossing to Ameland cost with a motorhome?
Travelling with a motorhome to Ameland involves additional costs. The price depends largely on when you travel, how many people there are, the size of your motorhome, and whether you have accessories like a bike rack. Often, the total cost is over € 200. Check Wagenborg’s website for up-to-date rates.
- How long is the ferry trip to Ameland?
The travel time with the standard ferry to Ameland is approximately 50 minutes. If you want to get there faster, you can take the speedboat, which takes about 20 minutes. Both connections depart from Holwerd and take you comfortably and directly to Ameland.
