Frontpage > About the port > News > Launching a cruise ferry between Kristiansand and the Netherlands
Introduces cruise ferry between Kristiansand and the Netherlands
1. November 2021
In April 2022, a new shipping route between Norway and the Netherlands will open. A cruise ferry with room for 1,500 passengers and 350 cars will operate three times a week on the route between Kristiansand and Eemshaven.
"We're bringing Europe closer to Kristiansand and southern Norway. After a comfortable sea voyage and a good night's sleep, you are suddenly just a few hours' train or car ride away from a number of exciting European destinations," says Bart Cunnen, CEO of Holland Norway Lines.
The company, which has both Norwegian and Dutch owners, has been working for a year and a half on the plans that are now being made public.
Holland Norway Lines has signed a long-term agreement with Tallink Grupp to charter the cruise ferry Romantika. The modernized ship has 700 cabins and will carry up to 1500 passengers and 350 cars on each crossing.
"The ship can carry 2,500 passengers, but we limit the number to 1,500 to ensure a comfortable and spacious crossing for everyone," says Cunnen.
On board, passengers can choose from five restaurants and five bars, as well as shop in the duty-free shop, enjoy a spa treatment, take a sauna or see a show in the large theater. Romantika also has a conference area with space for several hundred people.
Romantika will be one of the leading cruise ferries operating in Norwegian waters. We look forward to showcasing the ship in Kristiansand," says Cunnen.
The sailing will take 18 hours, departing from Kristiansand every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 15.00 and arriving in Eemshaven at 09.00 the next day. From Eemshaven, the ship sails every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 1500, arriving in Kristiansand at 09.00 the next day.
The port of Kristiansand is well prepared to receive a new ferry on a new route. In Eemshaven, local and regional authorities, together with Holland Norway Lines, have invested millions of kroner to build the necessary infrastructure for the new venture. Holland Norway Lines is expected to create 50 new jobs in the first phase and 100 new jobs in the long term.
We will also recruit Norwegian personnel, both on the ship and on land in Kristiansand," says Cunnen. The company will have an office in the port of Kristiansand.
The first sailing from Kristiansand to Eemshaven is Friday, April 8, at the start of the Easter holiday. A return ticket for two people in the same cabin will cost from NOK 2,200 per person without a car, and from NOK 2,500 per person with a car.
Mathias Bernander, Marketing Manager, Port of Kristiansand.
"We are very pleased to be able to present this news. We have been working for a long time to expand our ferry service and hope it will be well received with a new destination, says Mathias Bernander, Marketing Manager at the Port of Kristiansand.
The Port of Kristiansand already has two ferry companies, Fjord Line and Color Line, which sail between Kristiansand and Hirtshals in Denmark.
Here you can find the shipping company's website to book tickets.
