Ameland

Ameland Ferry Service – Information about the crossing and ferries

The ferry to Ameland sails between Holwerd in Friesland and the harbor of Nes on Ameland, operated by Wagenborg Passagiersdiensten since 1920. After taking over the State Ferry Service, Wagenborg became the regular operator for the island connection.

The Ameland Ferry Service

Several daily departures provide the crossing between Holwerd and Nes. Travelers can choose between the regular ferry and the fast service. The regular crossing takes approximately 45 minutes, while the fast service reduces travel time to around 25 minutes.

History of the Ameland Ferry

The foundation for the current ferry service was laid in 1905 by Egbert Wagenborg, founder of the Wagenborg Group, with a regular passenger service between Delfzijl and Emden. In 1920, Wagenborg took over the State Ferry Service, after which the Ameland route was systematically developed into a reliable connection for the island. Over the years, dozens of ships have operated on the Holwerd - Nes route, each with its own character and story.

In 2018, with the introduction of the first Fostaborg, a fast service was launched, making the crossing significantly quicker and more comfortable. From February 2026, the Hiddeborg will be added as an additional fast service.

Smaller water taxis were also available for flexible transport. These vessels, named Kluut, Plevier, and Stern, were used for quick and individual crossings, for island residents, special deliveries, or when regular departures did not fit travelers' schedules. As of September 1, 2020, Wagenborg Passagiersdiensten discontinued water taxi services on the Ameland-Holwerd route. With the introduction of the fast ferries, the demand for water taxis declined. For travelers who want a quick crossing, the fast service offers an excellent alternative.

Current Ferries

Currently, the Ameland ferry service operates the following vessels:

• Sier – regular ferry
• Oerd – sister ship of the Sier
• Fostaborg – high-speed vessel used on the fast service to Ameland
• Hiddeborg – entering service in February 2026 as a fast ferry

Together, these vessels form the core of the current ferry connection to Ameland.

Overview of All Ferries to Ameland

On this page, you will find a complete overview of all ferries to Ameland, both current and historical, that have operated on the Holwerd - Nes route. For each ship, you can explore photos, technical specifications, service history, and the historical background of the Ameland ferries.

Current Ferry Timetables and Ticket Advice

For up-to-date schedules and practical information about the crossing, visit the website of
Wagenborg Passagiersdiensten.