The Netherlands is a cyclist's paradise, and if you want to ride your own bike there you can take it on board the Newcastle to Amsterdam ferry.
Famously flat and cycle-friendly, the Netherlands is the perfect place to get out and about on a bike. From DFDS' port in IJmuiden, it takes around two hours to cycle to Amsterdam's centre, three hours to the Hague and four to Rotterdam.
DFDS has plotted out cycle routes too, including a two-day jaunt that takes in Haarlem, Amsterdam and Alkmaar before returning back to the port.
Read more: Newcastle to Amsterdam, DFDS ferry v KLM flight price comparison
There is a supplementary charge for taking your own bicycle on the ferry from Newcastle's port at North Shield s to the Netherlands. And it's increasing in 2023.
How much it costs to take a bicycle on DFDS Newcastle to Amsterdam Ferry
In 2022, DFDS is charging £10 per bike for passengers to take them on board the ferry. Some passengers have been quoted £6 per bike, but DFDS told ChronicleLive that was an error.
In 2023, the price will rise to £17 per bike. That rate will apply throughout 2023.
DFDS says the price increase is necessary due to "current market conditions".
Group bookings of more than 10 bikes can get a discount of 10%.
How do I take a bike on board the Newcastle Amsterdam ferry?
First, when booking your ticket through DFDS, select 'bicycle' under the 'vehicle type' menu. You will need to do that for everybody in your booking who is taking a bike.
On the day of travel, DFDS has explained how it works.
"It’s easy to take your bike onboard our ferries, although for convenience and safety there are a few things cyclists need to know. When you arrive, check-in at the vehicle check-in booths. Depending on the number of cyclists, you will most likely be loaded together in one large group but if there aren’t many then you may board among the cars. If it’s raining, we’ll try to get cyclists onboard first.
"You will then have to lash your bicycle using the lashes provided onboard. You can either secure the bicycle to the floor, or you may be instructed to attach it to a wall or railing. When disembarking, onboard stewards will instruct you how to disembark down the ramp when it is safe to do so and when there is no other traffic. When boarding and disembarking, you should dismount and walk for safety reasons."
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