A new direct ferry between the Netherlands and Norway could start operating in 2027. Dutch initiative NedNorge is working on plans for a passenger and freight service between IJmuiden and Kristiansand, with three sailings a week currently being considered.
The project appears to be moving forward, although the route has not yet been confirmed. NedNorge held further talks with the Port of Kristiansand in August, with discussions focusing on practical matters such as port access and how the proposed sailings could fit alongside existing ferry traffic. The port has previously responded positively to the plans and a letter of intent has reportedly been signed.
If the service goes ahead, the ferry would carry both passengers and freight. Travellers would be able to bring cars, motorhomes and motorcycles, while freight traffic is expected to form an important part of the business model. NedNorge says it is already seeing significant interest from the transport sector in a direct connection between the Netherlands and southern Norway.
Possible vessel now in the picture
The plans have also become more concrete when it comes to the ship itself. NedNorge is now referring to a suitable vessel that could carry both passengers and freight. However, the ship has not yet been publicly named and it is not known whether a final charter or purchase agreement has been reached.
Other important details also remain unknown. There is no detailed timetable yet, while the expected crossing time, ticket prices, passenger capacity and number of cabins have not been announced.
IJmuiden would be an interesting location for the new service. The port is close to Amsterdam and already handles the DFDS passenger ferry between Newcastle and the Netherlands. A connection to Kristiansand would add another long-distance North Sea route and provide travellers with their own vehicle with a direct alternative to driving through Germany and Denmark to reach Norway.
Direct Netherlands–Norway ferry could return
The Netherlands previously had a direct passenger ferry to Norway. Holland Norway Lines launched its Eemshaven–Kristiansand service in 2022, but later moved its operations away from Eemshaven before the company ceased operations in 2023.
There is also a separate project for a possible ferry between Eemshaven and Arendal, currently targeting a potential launch in 2028. The IJmuiden–Kristiansand project is separate and is aiming for an earlier start in 2027.
For now, however, the proposed ferry remains just that: a proposal. Tickets are not available and there is no confirmed launch date or final timetable. The latest talks in Kristiansand and the reference to a possible vessel are positive developments, but further agreements will be needed before it is certain that ferries will actually start sailing between IJmuiden and Kristiansand in 2027.
