Amsterdam offers an unbeatable combination of accessibility, history, and stunning scenery. It is well-connected to the rest of Europe by air, rail, and road, making it a favorite for travelers embarking on cruises. Royal Caribbean uses the city primarily for Northern Europe and fjord itineraries, as well as occasional Baltic and longer repositioning sailings.
With cruise terminals located close to the city center, passengers can enjoy the perfect blend of exploration and convenience. Whether you're sailing for a week or setting off on a lengthy adventure, Amsterdam's vibrant atmosphere sets the tone for an unforgettable journey.
Royal Caribbean adjusts its ships based on seasonal demand, routing, and itinerary planning. Over the years, the following ships have been deployed from Amsterdam:
A Radiance Class ship known for:
Panoramic glass walls
Outdoor viewing decks
Intimate atmosphere
Excellent Northern Europe itineraries
A sister ship to Jewel, featuring:
Expansive ocean views
Relaxing lounges
Perfect fleet size for smaller ports in Norway
A Radiance Class favorite offering:
Floor-to-ceiling windows
Comfortable cabins
Great dining options
These midsized ships are perfect for navigating fjords, narrow channels, and ports where larger ships cannot dock—making them ideal for Northern Europe sailings.
Royal Caribbean serves a wide variety of destinations from Amsterdam, with itineraries ranging from quick getaways to extended adventures. These routes showcase Northern Europe's dramatic beauty, charming coastal towns, and historic capitals.
One of the most sought-after cruises from Amsterdam is the Norwegian Fjords itinerary, offering stunning landscapes, quiet villages, and UNESCO-listed scenery.
Geiranger – breathtaking waterfalls
Flam – world-famous scenic railway
Bergen – colorful waterfront & mountains
Alesund – art nouveau charm
Olden – glaciers & serene lakes
Cooler summer climate
Nature-rich experiences
Majestic views from deck and shore
For travelers wanting calming scenery, photography opportunities, and a slower pace, fjords itineraries are unbeatable.
These itineraries explore the diverse cultures of Northern Europe, offering historic capitals, modern coastal cities, and a mix of arts, architecture, and culinary experiences.
Copenhagen – canals, palaces, and modern culture
Oslo – Viking history & fjord panoramas
Helsinki – unique Scandinavian design
Tallinn – medieval old town charm
Stockholm – archipelago beauty
Multi-country itineraries
Smooth sailing waters
Ideal blend of nature and vibrant city life
Northern Europe cruises are perfect for culture lovers, families, and cruisers wanting a blend of urban exploration and scenic sailing.
Although Royal Caribbean adjusts its Baltic deployment each season, Amsterdam has historically been a major departure point for Baltic adventures.
These voyages combine medieval towns, modern cities, and centuries of history into a single itinerary.
Stockholm, Sweden
Tallinn, Estonia
Riga, Latvia
Klaipeda, Lithuania
Helsinki, Finland
Immersive historical discovery
Distinct cultures across close distances
Unique architecture and heritage
Baltic cruises are among the most educational and globally enriching itineraries available from Amsterdam.
These are ideal for travelers seeking a quick holiday without long travel days.
Bruges (Zeebrugge)
Hamburg
Oslo
Copenhagen
First-time cruisers
Weekend and short-break travelers
Families and couples wanting an easy escape
These sailings provide a deep dive into Norway’s natural wonders.
Scenic mountain sailing
Glacial lakes
Awe-inspiring cliffs
Laid-back Nordic ports
Cool summer temperatures
Relaxing yet adventure-filled
Photogenic landscapes
Baltic routes offer some of the richest cultural experiences.
Medieval old towns
Unique Scandinavian and Eastern European influences
Rich art, music, and culinary traditions
History enthusiasts
Architecture lovers
Cultural explorers
Some seasons feature Arctic and Iceland voyages—truly bucket-list journeys.
Reykjavik
Akureyri
Honningsvåg (North Cape)
Tromsø
Midnight sun (seasonal)
Volcanic landscapes
Geothermal wonders
Rare wildlife sightings
Amsterdam-based ships sometimes sail around the British Isles in multi-country loops.
Dublin
Belfast
Glasgow
Liverpool
Edinburgh (Leith or South Queensferry)
Rich history
Celtic and British cultures
Varied landscapes and iconic cities
Occasionally Royal Caribbean offers repositioning cruises from Amsterdam to North America.
UK coastal towns
Iceland
Greenland (seasonal)
Canada
Northeastern USA
Many relaxing sea days
High-value pricing
Unique route across the ocean
Amsterdam is one of Europe's most efficient cities, making embarkation incredibly easy.
Well-connected airport (AMS)
International train hub
Modern cruise terminals
Easy access to hotels & city attractions
Travelers often extend their stay to discover Amsterdam.
Canal tours
Anne Frank House
Van Gogh Museum
Rijksmuseum
Bicycling through the city
Departing Amsterdam is a scenic highlight.
Historic waterfronts
Traditional Dutch architecture
Windmills and green countryside as you exit the river IJ
Cool weather, calm ports, relaxing nature.
Deep cultural significance and ancient towns.
Raw, untouched natural landscapes.
Shorter routes focus on Northern ports; longer ones cover multiple regions.
Quick European getaways
Fjords & Northern Europe
Baltic, Arctic, or transatlantic
Radiance Class ships offer:
Glass-themed architecture
Excellent ocean views
Ideal size for fjords and smaller ports
Perfect for scenic destinations.
If you're researching which cruises start from Amsterdam Royal Caribbean, the answer is wonderfully diverse. Amsterdam acts as a gateway to Norway’s majestic fjords, the cultural capitals of Northern Europe, the dramatic landscapes of Iceland, and even long-distance transatlantic journeys. With its convenient location, modern terminals, and stunning waterways, Amsterdam provides one of the most scenic and enjoyable cruise embarkation experiences in Europe.
Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or seasoned traveler, Royal Caribbean’s Amsterdam departures deliver the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and comfort—making them an excellent choice for your next ocean holiday.
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