There are few things more satisfying than catching a country in its seasonal prime, and the Netherlands in spring is exactly that. While the rest of Europe might still be shrugging off its winter coat, the Dutch are already wandering through sun-dappled parks, surrounded by more flowers than a florist. And thanks to DFDS ferries, getting there from the UK has never been easier, or more affordable.
Tulip mania (the good kind)
Let’s address the obvious: the tulips. Between late March and mid-May, Holland puts on a floral display so riotously colourful it makes Monet's Waterlilies look practically subdued. The Keukenhof Gardens, a short journey from Amsterdam, are the centrepiece; 7 million bulbs, 800 varieties, and one giant reminder that the Dutch don’t do spring by halves.
But don’t stop there. Venture beyond Keukenhof and you’ll find the Bollenstreek (that’s the “Bulb Region” to us), where endless fields of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths stretch out like something from a Dutch fairy tale.
Beyond the bulbs: what else to see
Once you’ve had your fill of flower-frolicking, Holland delivers in spades. Amsterdam is always worth a visit, but in spring, its canals shimmer a little more brightly, as its café terraces fill with people bravely (foolishly) pretending it’s warm enough to sit outside.
Take a short train hop to Haarlem for culture without the crowds, or cycle the windmill-dotted paths of Kinderdijk for a particularly Instagrammable day out. Art lovers can pay homage to Van Gogh (yes, he also painted a few tulips), and cheese lovers can pick up their fill of Gouda, too.
The DFDS difference
Now here’s where Cruise Collective comes in. We’ve partnered with DFDS to offer up to 33% off crossings from Newcastle to Amsterdam, so your springtime Dutch escape comes with fresh sea air, comfortable cabins, and a glass of wine on deck as you sail towards the land of stroopwafels and cycling.
And unlike flights, DFDS doesn’t place any limits on your luggage, meaning you can pack as much as you can carry without having to cram it into an under seat bag or an overhead locker.
Spring forward
There’s something refreshing about sailing into spring, literally. It’s the season of new beginnings, bright mornings, and floral overload. And there’s no better way to welcome it than by hopping on a ferry and embracing the full Dutch bloom experience, with DFDS and Cruise Collective smoothing the way (and sweetening the price).
So, if your idea of a perfect spring includes blooming fields of flowers, scenic bike rides, and a glass of Dutch beer at golden hour, you’re our kind of traveller (just don't forget the antihistamine).
Save up to 33% on DFDS crossings with Cruise Collective and make this spring the one you finally stop to smell the tulips.