2 night Mini Cruise Break to Alkmaar from Newcastle 

Book a short break to Holland's traditional cheese market in Alkmaar and enjoy wandering around this fantastic city spending time in some of its many cafés; alternatively why not visit the cheese museum.

What's Included:

• 2 nights in an en suite cabin

• Live onboard entertainment

• Coach transfers to and from Alkmaar

• Approx. 5 hours in Alkmaar

Explore the beautiful cobbled streets, canals and shopping areas of Alkmaar, home to one of only four remaining traditional cheese markets in Holland. Sailing from Newcastle, enjoy two nights cruising to and from Holland, where there is a whole host of great things to see and do onboard.

Relax on our sky deck with a drink as you sail down the Tyne, before heading indoors to enjoy a delcious meal in one of our wide range of restaurants, and before experiencing our entertainment in the Columbus Club.

On arrival in IJmuiden, board coaches to Alkmaar, home of one of only four remaining traditional cheese markets in Holland, where every Friday morning men in traditional dress put on a fascinating show, bringing out their cheeses to the marketplace.

After a full day exploring the shopping and museums of Alkmaar it's time for your return overnight cruise back to Newcastle, in time for the start of your weekend.


Alkmaar – Holland’s number 1 cheese market!

Alkmaar cheese market

TheNormally associated for its cheese markets – however Alkmaar is much more. Fun for families, couples and groups of friends visit Alkmaar and enjoy a variety of things to do and see.

For couples

The Cheese market in Alkmaar hosts a traditional Dutch ritual every Friday morning, where, rain or shine, the cheesemen in traditional dress bring out their wares for sale on strange shoulder mounted barrows. After the 'bringing out' ceremony is over, peruse the stalls with your partner and enjoy samples of Dutch cheese made the traditional way, before a relaxing cup of coffee in one of the cities relaxing cafés.

For families

Although the Alkmaar cheese markets are the most popular attraction, Alkmaar also offers a number of family friendly museums for you and your family to visit. Why not carry on the cheese theme and visit Alkmaar’s cheese museum, or the Stedelijk Museum which begins with an informative 10 minute video highlighting Alkmaar’s rich history.

For friends

A break to Alkmaar is fun even if you are travelling with a group of friends. The National Beer Museum could be the ideal place to start your short break before heading to one of Alkmaar’s many delightful bars and restaurants.

For more information on Alkmaar, visit our

Alkmaar Destination Guide

Your time onboard the ferry to Holland

Real people

As soon as you step onboard you can go straight to your cabin but with all our cruise ferries have to offer you won't be there for long. Before sitting down to dinner you could treat yourself to some retail therapy - everything from clothes, perfumes and jewellery to wines, spirits and tobacco. There's even a variety of toys and games for children.

Relax with a drink

We have a number of bars on board our ferries to Amsterdam, each offering something a little different. Enjoy the intimate atmosphere of the Navigator's or Compass Bar. But if you desire something with a little more sparkle the Columbus Club with its mix of live music and entertainment is certain to please.

Entertainment all night

Try your luck at the casino and enjoy the thrill of the roulette wheel or a game of blackjack all with cash prizes. Or take a trip to the movies and choose from a selection of the latest blockbuster films in our cinema.

Enjoy a delicious meal

Savour the choice of our cuisine and satisfy your appetite in one of our fantastic restaurants. We pride ourselves on the quality and range of our dishes, all prepared fresh on board by our experienced chefs. Feast on our all you can eat international buffet with its huge selection of hot and cold dishes and scrumptious desserts and cheeses. There are also meals for children who eat half price.

You may prefer to dine à la carte and can enjoy a top quality meal in intimate surroundings or treat yourself to a mouth watering tender steak cooked perfectly to your taste. Alternatively simply select a sandwich, snack or pastry from the cafe.


Your Trip at a Glance:

Day 1
14:30 Check-in opens.
16:30 Check-in closes.
17:00 Depart North Shields for Holland.

Day 2
09:30 Arrive in Holland.
09:45 Coach departs IJmuiden ferry terminal for Alkmaar.
10:30 Coaches arrive in Alkmaar.

Day at leisure

16:00 Coach departs Alkmaar for Alkmaar.
17:30 Depart Holland for North Shields.

Day 3
09:00 Arrive in North Shields.


Disclaimer: Prices are subject to availability. Credit card & telephone booking fees apply. Terms & Conditions apply.

Telephone 0871 522 9955
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When can you go?

Departures in bold.
Cheapest in orange.