Ferry to Vlieland

Vlieland Ferry Service - Information About the Crossing and Ferries

The ferry service to Vlieland operates from the ferry port of Harlingen. As Vlieland is a car-free island, the ferry service has a unique character, with passenger and goods transport strictly separated. The primary connection is maintained by Rederij Doeksen, which holds the concession for passenger transport on this route.

The Vlieland Ferry Service

The crossing to Vlieland passes through the Vliestroom and the narrow Stortemelk channel. Due to the shallow depths of the waterways and the strong currents around the Noorderhaaks shoals, the route requires vessels with specific draft and maneuverability characteristics. In addition to the regular ferry service operated by Rederij Doeksen, Rederij Wadden Transport is also active on this route. They operate specialized vessels for transporting freight, construction materials, and supplies, as regular vehicles from visitors are not permitted on the island.

History of the Vlieland Ferry

The ferry service to Vlieland has existed since the 19th century. From 1861, there was a post boat service between Harlingen and the Wadden Islands, and from around 1883, a regular steamship connection. These services made Vlieland accessible for passengers and goods long before modern ferry services were established.

In 1923, Rederij Doeksen took over the existing service from the NV Terschellinger Stoomboot Maatschappij (TSM). This brought the operation of the ferry service under Doeksen, but the route itself remained a crucial connection for the island.

Originally, Vlieland was often visited as a stopover on the route to Terschelling. Due to increasing demand and the growing importance of the island, a direct connection between Harlingen and East Vlieland soon developed. From the 20th century onwards, crossings became increasingly reliable, thanks to vessels adapted to the shallow channels of the Vlieland Wadden Sea. In the 1970s, high-speed passenger services were added, reducing travel time and making the ferry service more attractive.

Today, the ferry service between Harlingen and Vlieland provides a reliable and regular connection, essential for both residents and visitors.

Current Ferries

The fleet currently serving the Vlieland route includes the following vessels:

• Vlieland - The main ferry; a catamaran built in 2005, specifically designed for the shallow waters of the Harlingen – Vlieland route.
• Willem Barentsz / Willem de Vlamingh - Mainly used when the main ferry is in maintenance or during high passenger demand.
• Tiger - High-speed service; used for the express ferry connection and inter-island trips with Terschelling.
• Koegelwieck - Second catamaran in the high-speed service.
• Noord Nederland - Freight service; catamaran used for the transport of goods and vehicles for island residents with permits.
• Zeehond - Water taxi; available for flexible passenger transport on request.
• Terschellinger Bank - Freight service; operated by Rederij Wadden Transport for heavy transport and island supplies.

Overview of All Ferries to Vlieland

This page provides information on all ferries that are currently or have previously been used on the Vlieland route, including photos, technical specifications, lifespans, and service histories. This overview offers a complete resource for anyone interested in the Vlieland ferries or wanting to learn more about the crossing.

Current Ferry Timetables and Ticket Information

The timetable for the route to Vlieland depends heavily on the season and expected passenger numbers. As tourist vehicles are not allowed, parking arrangements in Harlingen are an essential part of travel planning. A surcharge applies to the high-speed service, and reservations, especially on weekends, are required due to the limited capacity of the catamarans. For the most up-to-date operational information and ticket sales, visit the Rederij Doeksen website.

Fähre Vlieland

Die Verbindung zwischen Harlingen und Vlieland wird von der Rederij Doeksen betrieben. Die Überfahrt dauert durchschnittlich eineinhalb Stunden und wird sowohl mit regulären als auch mit Schnellfähren durchgeführt. Diese Schiffe sind für eine sichere Fahrt auf dem Wattenmeer ausgelegt und bieten den Passagieren eine komfortable Reise.

Die Rederij Wadden Transport ist auf den Gütertransport zwischen Harlingen auf dem Festland und den Watteninseln Vlieland und Terschelling spezialisiert. Zu diesem Zweck nutzt die Rederei Wadden Transport die Ro-Ro-Fähre Terschellinger Bank, ein Schiff mit einem 150 Meter langen Ladedeck und einer Kapazität von bis zu 250 Tonnen, das speziell für Schwertransporte wie Baumaterialien, Kräne, Chalets und Fahrzeuge ausgelegt ist.