Ijmuiden, Holland is a picturesque departure port for many cruise lines. With its rich history and beautiful surroundings, cruisers have a lot to look forward to before their voyage begins. In this destination guide, we will cover everything you need to know about the Departure Port Ijmuiden, Holland, including its history, tourist attractions, shopping, transportation options, and more.
Table of Contents
History of Ijmuiden
Ijmuiden is a small port city located in North Holland. It was founded in 1876 as the entrance to the North Sea Canal, which connects Amsterdam to the North Sea. During World War II, the port was heavily bombed, but it was rebuilt in the 1950s. Today, it is one of the busiest ports in the Netherlands.
Cruise Lines Departing from Ijmuiden
Major Cruise Lines
The major cruise lines departing from Ijmuiden include:
- Princess Cruises
- Cruise & Maritime Voyages
- Transocean Tours
- Phoenix Reisen
Popular Cruise Destinations
The most popular cruise destinations departing from Ijmuiden include:
- Baltic capitals (St. Petersburg, Tallinn, Helsinki)
- Norwegian Fjords
- British Isles
Tourist Attractions in Ijmuiden
Beaches
Ijmuiden has some of the most beautiful beaches in Holland. The most popular beaches include:
- Zuidpier Beach
- Kennemerstrand Beach
- Ijmuiden aan Zee Beach
Museums
There are several interesting museums in Ijmuiden, including:
- IJmuider Zee- en Havenmuseum (Maritime Museum)
- Pieter Vermeulen Museum (Natural History Museum)
- Bunker Museum
National Park Zuid-Kennemerland
National Park Zuid-Kennemerland is a beautiful park located near Ijmuiden. It is home to many different species of animals and plants and has some of the most stunning walking and cycling paths in Holland.
Tips for Cruising from Ijmuiden
Packing Tips
- Bring warm clothing, as the weather can be quite chilly, especially during the shoulder seasons.
- Pack comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat for sunny days.
Embarkation Tips
- Arrive at the port early to avoid long lines.
- Have all your travel documents and identification ready.
- Be sure to have travel insurance.
Disembarkation Tips
- Make sure you have all your belongings before leaving the ship.
- Have transportation arranged for your journey home.
Shopping in Ijmuiden
Local Markets
- Ijmuiden Fish Market
- Halkade Market
- Velserduinplein Market
Souvenirs
- Dutch cheese and clogs
- Delftware
- Dutch stroopwafels
Things to do Pre-Cruise in Ijmuiden
- Visit the famous Zaanse Schans windmills
- Explore the city of Haarlem
- Take a canal cruise in Amsterdam
Best Eateries and Restaurants in Ijmuiden
- De Kop van de Haven
- Brasserie & Wijnbar De IJmond
- Restaurant Seaport Marina
Best Time to Visit Ijmuiden
The best time to visit Ijmuiden is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is at its warmest.
Things to do Near the Port of Ijmuiden
The City of Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a must-visit city when departing from Ijmuiden. Some of the most popular attractions include:
- The Anne Frank House
- The Van Gogh Museum
- The Rijksmuseum
The Hague
The Hague is another nearby city worth exploring. Some of the most popular attractions include:
- The Peace Palace
- Madurodam
- The Mauritshuis museum
Keukenhof Gardens
The Keukenhof Gardens are a stunning display of tulips and other flowers. It is only open from March to May each year, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly.
Shore Excursions from Ijmuiden
City Tours
- Amsterdam City Tour
- Haarlem City Tour
- Rotterdam City Tour
Canal Cruises
- Amsterdam Canal Cruise
- Haarlem Canal Cruise
- Rotterdam Harbour Cruise
Windmill Tours
- Zaanse Schans Windmill Tour
- Kinderdijk Windmill Tour
Transportation Options in Ijmuiden
- Taxis
- Buses
- Trains
Costs and Expenses in Ijmuiden
- Accommodation: $80-$150 per night
- Food: $15-$30 per meal
- Transportation: $10-$20 per day
What Other Ports in Holland Should I Visit Before or After Cruising from Ijmuiden?
When planning your cruise from Ijmuiden, don’t miss the chance to explore Rotterdam before setting sail. As one of Holland’s largest ports, Rotterdam offers a vibrant mix of modern architecture, historical sites, and a bustling culinary scene. Wander through the iconic Markthal, admire the innovative Cube Houses, or take a leisurely canal cruise to soak in the city’s charm. Rotterdam ensures a memorable pre-cruise experience that perfectly complements your upcoming voyage.
Conclusion
Ijmuiden, Holland is a fascinating departure port that offers plenty of things to see and do before your cruise. From its beautiful beaches to its charming museums, there is something for everyone in Ijmuiden. We hope this destination guide has helped you plan your next cruise vacation departure from Ijmuiden.
