Wildlife Mini Cruise
ORCA MINI CRUISE TO AMSTERDAM
The ORCA wildlife adventure mini cruise to Amsterdam is now available to book for the 2025 season.
From April, ORCA wildlife charity offers guided programmes led by ocean conservationists - where you have the chance to spot playful dolphins, elegant whales, and adorable porpoises.
As you embark on this journey, consider making a difference by donating £5-£10 to ORCA when booking – supporting ORCA’s invaluable conservation work.
Follow our social pages for more updates and get ready to dive into a world of wonders by booking your ORCA Mini Cruise now!
Wildlife watch times on the outside deck are weather dependent and exact times will be announced via loudspeaker.
Wildlife watch experience with ORCA
Discover vibrant Amsterdam
Activities for both children and adults
Return coach transfers to Amsterdam
Restaurants, Bars and Duty-Free-Shop onboard, where you can save up to 50% vs the high street
Educational morning and evening deck watches – important, weather and resource dependent!
Wildlife presentation on North Sea wildlife with fun activities for kids
Day 1
Check-in opens
Check-in closes
Depart North Shields for Amsterdam
ORCA on deck
Wildlife Watching
Day 2
Wildlife Watching
Coach departs for Amsterdam City Centre
Ship departs IJmuiden
ORCA on deck
Wildlife Watching
Day 3
Wildlife Watching
Breakfast available onboard
Arrive in North Shields
Experience a Wildlife Cruise to Amsterdam
During your sailing you will meet our Ocean Conservationists Alex or Eilidh for a chat about marine life, sustainability and conservation, along with a tour of our Wildlife Lounge.
Join dedicated wildlife watches out on the Observation Deck in the mornings and evenings to glimpse some of the exciting species that can be found between Newcastle and Amsterdam. On the Dutch coast, sightings of harbour porpoises are very common, so watch out for these as the ship approaches the port in IJmuiden!
Our coach will also take you to the centre of Amsterdam and back to the port, so you can enjoy an unforgettable day in the Dutch capital.
ORCA will be expecting you on your return journey, and it is possible that a pod of playful bottlenose dolphins will welcome you back when the ship reaches the UK coast again. With luck, a shy minke whale might also make an appearance!
I-Spy at sea with ORCA
ORCA have now made their data collection app OceanWatchers available to everyone! Explore the app's I-Spy at sea function, learn about the wildlife across our DFDS routes, and record your own sightings while onboard. At the end of your sailing, you might find yourself wanting to become a trained OceanWatcher yourself. Find out more about I-Spy at sea!
Carefree travel with DFDS
Terms & conditions apply. ABTOT provides protection for your booking as set out in section 19 of our booking conditions.
Entertainment onboard
Restaurants
Cabins
Amsterdam Highlights
Amsterdam is a city full of life and energy, especially during the summer. With so much to see and do, a day in Amsterdam can be truly inspiring.
Take a stroll through the colourful streets of Jordaan or explore the historical landmarks of the city centre. Rent a bicycle and ride along the scenic canals, stopping at cafes and restaurants for a taste of local cuisine. Immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene by visiting museums such as the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum.
And if you're looking for some relaxation, take a picnic to Vondelpark and soak in the sun. Whatever your interests may be, Amsterdam offers endless possibilities for a memorable day!
Your package is protected
DFDS packages are protected by ABTOT so you can book with confidence and plan your holiday with peace of mind.
- ABTOT provides financial protection under The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 for DFDS A/S in the event of the company’s insolvency.
- ABTOT cover provides for a refund in the event you have not yet travelled or repatriation if transportation was included in your package booked directly with DFDS A/S.
Find out more details on travel protection through ABTOT here.
Proudly named the World’s Leading Ferry Operator
We are also proud to announce that we have been nominated as Europe’s Leading Ferry Operator 2025 and this amazing journey continues, first and foremost, thanks to you.
To our loyal passengers who put their trust in us, our valued partners and our hard-working colleagues: this nomination is also yours. You are the heart of DFDS and today, we’d like to say THANK YOU.
Let's continue to create beautiful memories and cross the finish line together.
