Volendam as a Cruise Port
While Volendam doesn't have its own cruise terminal, this charming fishing village is one of the most popular shore excursions for cruise passengers docking in Amsterdam. Located just 20 kilometers north of Amsterdam's cruise terminals, Volendam offers an authentic Dutch experience that perfectly complements any Northern European or Baltic cruise itinerary. The village's picturesque harbor, traditional costumes, and well-preserved architecture make it an ideal half-day excursion that showcases the Netherlands beyond Amsterdam's urban attractions.
Port Information
Cruise ships dock at Amsterdam's Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA) or occasionally at Felison Terminal in IJmuiden. From either location, Volendam is easily accessible as part of organized shore excursions or independent exploration. The village's compact size makes it perfect for cruise passengers with limited time.
- Located 20km from Amsterdam cruise terminal
- 30-45 minute transfer by bus or taxi
- Shore excursion buses depart regularly
- Village center is 5 minutes from bus drop-off
- All attractions within walking distance
- Return transport coordinated with ship schedules
Shore Excursions
Most cruise lines offer Volendam as part of their "Dutch Countryside" or "Holland Highlights" excursions. These typically combine Volendam with nearby attractions like Zaanse Schans windmills and Marken island. Independent travelers can easily reach Volendam by public bus (line 316) from Amsterdam Central Station.
- Traditional costume photo experience (€15-25)
- Cheese factory tours with free tastings
- Harbor walks and fish market visits
- Volendam-Marken boat trips (€16.50 return)
- Local restaurant lunch featuring fresh seafood
- Shopping for clogs and Dutch souvenirs
MS Volendam - Holland America Line
About MS Volendam
MS Volendam is one of Holland America Line's Rotterdam-class ships, launched in 1999 and most recently refurbished in October-November 2024. Named after the charming Dutch fishing village, this mid-sized cruise ship combines classic elegance with modern amenities. The vessel is renowned for its extensive art collection, garden-themed décor featuring floral fabrics and fresh flower arrangements throughout, and intimate atmosphere that larger ships can't match. With a capacity of 1,432 guests (maximum 1,718), MS Volendam offers a more personalized cruise experience.
Ship Stats
Length: 781 feet (238m)
Gross Tonnage: 61,396
Guest Capacity: 1,432
Crew: 650
Decks: 10 passenger
Staterooms: 716
Art & Culture
Features an impressive art collection worth millions, including works inspired by the garden theme. BBC Earth programming offers nature documentaries and expert lectures. The ship hosts Lincoln Center Stage performances and cooking demonstrations.
Destinations
Sails worldwide including Alaska, Caribbean, Europe, Asia, and special Pole-to-Pole voyages. Known for longer Grand Voyages and unique itineraries to less-visited ports.
MS Volendam Ship Features
Dining Options
MS Volendam offers diverse culinary experiences across multiple venues:
- Rotterdam Dining Room: Two-level main restaurant
- Pinnacle Grill: Premium steakhouse ($35 cover)
- Lido Market: Buffet restaurant
- Dive-In: Poolside burgers and hot dogs
- Explorations Café: Specialty coffees and pastries
- 24-hour room service (Continental breakfast free)
Entertainment & Activities
Enjoy world-class entertainment and enrichment programs:
- World Stage: Two-story LED theater
- BBC Earth Experiences: Nature programming
- Lincoln Center Stage: Chamber music
- B.B. King's Blues Club: Live music venue
- Casino: Full gaming options at sea
- Culinary Arts Center: Cooking demos
Wellness & Recreation
Stay active and pampered during your voyage:
- Greenhouse Spa & Salon: Full-service spa
- Fitness Center: Modern equipment
- 2 Swimming Pools: One with retractable roof
- 2 Hot Tubs: Outdoor relaxation
- Sports Courts: Basketball, volleyball, pickleball
- Promenade Deck: For walking/jogging
MS Volendam Staterooms
Stateroom Categories
All 716 staterooms feature premium amenities and elegant décor:
- Interior Staterooms: 182-200 sq ft, no window
- Ocean View: 175-200 sq ft, picture window
- Lanai Staterooms: 175 sq ft, sliding glass doors to promenade
- Verandah Staterooms: 213-379 sq ft, private balcony
- Vista Suites: 398-563 sq ft, sitting area, whirlpool tub
- Neptune Suites: 464-590 sq ft, priority perks
- Pinnacle Suites: 1,159 sq ft, king bed, dressing room
Standard Amenities
Every stateroom includes these features:
- Signature Mariner's Dream™ bed
- Premium bedding and bathrobes
- Flat-screen TV with interactive media
- Telephone, safe, and hair dryer
- Elemis Biotec bath amenities
- 24-hour room service
- Daily housekeeping with turndown service
- Mini-fridge available ($2/day rental)
Volendam Shore Excursion Options
Cruise Line Organized Tours
Most major cruise lines offer Volendam as part of their Amsterdam shore excursions:
- Dutch Countryside Tour: Combines Volendam, Marken, and Zaanse Schans (4-5 hours, $75-120)
- Volendam & Marken Express: Focus on the two fishing villages with boat transfer (3-4 hours, $65-95)
- Holland Highlights: Includes cheese farm, clog factory, and traditional villages (6-8 hours, $95-150)
- Benefits: Guaranteed return to ship, professional guides, air-conditioned buses
- Drawbacks: Less flexibility, larger groups, higher prices
Independent Travel to Volendam
For adventurous cruisers who prefer exploring on their own:
- From Amsterdam Central: Bus 316 direct to Volendam (€5 each way, 35 minutes)
- Waterland Day Ticket: €12.50 for unlimited regional bus travel
- Taxi from cruise terminal: €60-80 one way (20-25 minutes)
- Combined with Marken: Take ferry between villages (€16.50 return)
- Time needed: Allow 4-5 hours including transport
- Tip: Check ship's all-aboard time and allow buffer for return
Private Tour Options
Small group and private tours offer personalized experiences:
- Private car/van tours: 4-8 hours, customizable itinerary ($400-800 per vehicle)
- Small group tours: Maximum 8-15 people ($80-120 per person)
- Specialty tours: Photography, food-focused, or cycling tours available
- Benefits: Flexibility, local guides, avoid crowds, personalized pace
- Book through: Viator, GetYourGuide, or local operators
MS Volendam 2025 Highlights
Special Voyages & Itineraries
MS Volendam is known for its unique and extended voyages that showcase the ship's ability to reach smaller, more intimate ports:
133-Day Pole-to-Pole World Voyage 2025
- Departure: January 25, 2025 from Fort Lauderdale
- Visits 68 ports across 28 countries
- Highlights: Antarctica, Falklands, Panama Canal
- Unique south-north-south routing
- Starting from $29,999 per person
Canada & New England 2025
- 25-day Legendary Voyage to Greenland & Iceland
- 7-11 day coastal cruises from Boston
- Fall foliage sailings in September-October
- New port: Eastport, Maine
- UNESCO sites and Quebec overnights
Quick Links
MS Volendam Reviews
Read what past passengers say about their experience aboard MS Volendam. The ship consistently receives high marks for its intimate atmosphere, excellent service, and enrichment programs. Recent refurbishments have modernized the ship while maintaining its classic charm.
Read Reviews2025-2026 Itineraries
Explore MS Volendam's upcoming voyages including the special Pole-to-Pole expedition, Alaska season, European cruises, and Asia-Pacific routes. Early booking recommended for suite categories and unique itineraries.
View ItinerariesShip Location
Track MS Volendam's current position and upcoming ports of call. The ship operates globally with seasonal positioning between Alaska, Europe, Asia, and special expedition voyages.
Track ShipPlanning Your Visit to Volendam
Cruise Passenger Tips
What to Do in Volendam (3-4 hours)
- Walk the harbor promenade (30 minutes)
- Traditional costume photo (30 minutes)
- Visit cheese factory with tasting (45 minutes)
- Try fresh herring or smoked eel (15 minutes)
- Browse souvenir shops for clogs (30 minutes)
- Optional: Boat to Marken (add 2 hours)
Practical Information
- Currency: Euro (€) - ATMs available
- Language: Dutch, English widely spoken
- Best months: April-September
- Busiest times: 11 AM - 3 PM with cruise groups
- Free WiFi: Available in many cafes
- Restrooms: Public facilities at harbor