i was visiting my brother in the UK, and had to return back to Amsterdam, and my brother and mum…read moredecided they wanted to come back to Amsterdam with me for a couple of day's visit, to check out the apartment I was renting, and the neighboorhood I was living in. The cost for all of us flying back, was slightly prohibited, so I started seeing if there were any train or sea options available.
Rightaway the Stena line's ferry from Harwich to Rotterdam (UK to the Netherlands) was a real contender. For a round trip, including taking over the car, and pre-booking an en-suite cabin was £150 and change. This was so great, as then I could also shop at Costco, and pack up my brother's car instead of trying to fit everything into my one allocated suitcase. There was also a train option, but the ferry just seemed like such a relaxed, luxurious way to travel and indeed it was!
Travelling down from the motorway, there's clear signs to get to the Port and the booking email sent by the company has a map link, which takes you to your destination. Customs and clearance was easy, and while we were running a bit past the boarding time cut-off, we weren't the only stragglers, as two other cars also pulled up behind us!
On board, the amenities are great. The directions to our cabin were easy to decipher, and the cabin itself was super comfortable and well designed. We had a lovely space to read, there was a movie theater (prices were a bit expensive), a free outdoor basketball court, a teenage video game hangout area, play area, etc.
However the food we purchased, aka the x2 sandwiches, were a let down, which is why its not 5-stars. The bread was this soft white kind, and it was just so meh. Fish n' chips were okay - and I know for next time to bring my own food.
The whole trip was so wonderful and relaxing - this ship wasn't massively busy/ full, and the seas were calm. We left the UK in the morning and landed in the port of Rotterdam in the evening, so yeah, it did take longer than flying or on the train, but for me, it was just a great day trip.
Overall, however fabulous experience, and I cant wait to find an opportunity to do this again. ABSOLUTELY RECOMMEND!
Yelp 29/ 2019