- Must visit
Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen Depot
The world’s first publicly accessible art-storage depot, letting visitors see thousands of works behind the scenes in a striking mirrored building.
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The cheapest and fastest ferries from Colchester to Rotterdam
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$81
Average price
$90
Fastest journey
6 h 45 m
Average duration
7 h 23 m
Ferries per day
2
Distance
245 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap ferry ticket from Colchester to Rotterdam is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Colchester to Rotterdam will cost around $90 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $81.
Fast ferries
Of the 2 ferries that leave Colchester for Rotterdam on Sat, Jun 20, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct ferries cover the 245 km distance in an average of 7 h 23 m but if you time it right, some ferries will get you there in just 6 h 45 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest ferries will take 8 h and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
Stena Line9:00 AM6h45Harwich International Port4:45 PMPort of Hoek van Holland$811One-way0 transfers- Stena Line11:00 PM8h00Harwich International Port8:00 AMPort of Hoek van Holland$991One-way0 transfers
- Stena Line9:00 AM6h45Harwich International Port4:45 PMPort of Hoek van Holland$811One-way0 transfers
- Stena Line11:00 PM8h00Harwich International Port8:00 AMPort of Hoek van Holland$991One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare flight and ferry for Colchester to Rotterdam
Omio recommends booking the ferry as it is the most popular option from Colchester to Rotterdam among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the ferry with prices starting from $72. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 58m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a ferry costs an average of $72, and a flight costs an average of $54.
Distance: 132 nautical miles (245 km)
Compare ferry with
Most popular Ferry | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$96 Average price Cheapest | $127 Average price | $36 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 28m Average total duration 7h 28m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* | 3h 58m Average total duration Fastest 58m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 13m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Colchester to Rotterdam is a ferry with an average price of $96 (€79).
This is compared to other travel options from Colchester to Rotterdam:
A ferry is $30 (€25) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Colchester to Rotterdam costing on average $127 (€104).
The fastest way to travel from Colchester to Rotterdam is by flight with an average journey time of 58m.
Other travel options to Rotterdam take longer:
Ferry takes on average 7h 28m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Colchester and Rotterdam including taking a flight and ferry.
We recommend using the ferry as it is the most popular way to get from Colchester to Rotterdam among Omio's users.
Colchester to Rotterdam Ferry Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 03:15PM | Duration 7h15 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Sun |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 05:15PM | Duration 7h15 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 10:00PM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 8h00 | Sailing Days Tue |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 11:00PM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 8h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun |
Live departures
Colchester to Rotterdam ferry times
The table below shows live departures for Colchester to Rotterdam ferries for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stena Line | 9:00 AM Harwich International Port | 7h15 | 5:15 PM Port of Hoek van Holland | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Stena Line | 11:00 PM Harwich International Port | 8h00 | 8:00 AM Port of Hoek van Holland | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last ferry of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Colchester to Rotterdam by flight or ferry
Compare flight and ferry prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Sat
Jun 20
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Journey information
Overview: Ferry from Colchester to Rotterdam
United Kingdom
Netherlands
Ferries from Colchester to Rotterdam run on average 2 times per day, taking around 7h 28m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at $72 (€59) but you can travel from only $54 (€44) by flight.
There are 2 ferries per day. The earliest ferry runs at 09:00, the last at 23:00. The fastest ferry covers the 132 nautical miles (245 km) distance in 6h 45m. There are 10 sailings per week. Ferries from Colchester to Rotterdam are available to foot passengers.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $54 (€44)
Official Omio partners on this route
Distance 132 nautical miles (245 km) |
Average sailing duration 7h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price $72 (€59) |
Ferries per day 2 |
Direct ferries Available |
Average weekly sailings 10 |
Fastest ferry 6h 45m |
First ferry 9:00 AM |
Last ferry 11:00 PM |
Cabins Available |
Vehicles Available |
Foot passengers Available |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 1 day |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $54 (€44)
Ferry operators: Stena Line from Colchester to RotterdamYou can travel by ferry between Colchester to Rotterdam with Stena Line for as low as $54 (€44). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey.
Stena Line
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 45m
Cheapest Price
$72 (€59)
Complete guide to Rotterdam
Things to do in Rotterdam
Discover the best of Rotterdam — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Rotterdam trip today.
- Must visit
Kunsthal Rotterdam
Major exhibition hall known for changing shows on art, design, photography, and culture, making it one of Rotterdam’s most consistently rewarding museum visits.
- Recommended
Maritime Museum Rotterdam
A leading museum on Dutch maritime history with interactive exhibits, historic vessels, and strong links to Rotterdam’s port identity.
- Must visit
Markthal
A dramatic market hall and architectural showpiece, hugely popular for its giant ceiling artwork and central location near the Cube Houses.
- Must visit
Delfshaven
Historic harbor district with canals, old buildings, and a rare prewar atmosphere that contrasts strongly with modern Rotterdam.
- Must visit
Kop van Zuid
Modern waterfront district of striking skyscrapers, bridges, and river views, ideal for architecture fans and photo walks.
Kapsalon
A Rotterdam invention of fries topped with döner or shawarma, melted cheese, salad, and garlic sauce. It is one of the city’s most iconic late-night comfort foods.
Kibbeling
Battered and fried white fish pieces, usually served with a creamy garlic or remoulade-style sauce. A classic Dutch seafood snack popular in Rotterdam markets.
- Gluten-free
Haring
Raw cured herring, often served with chopped onion and pickles. This traditional Dutch street food is widely eaten across the Netherlands, including Rotterdam.
FG Restaurant Rotterdam
Refined fine-dining restaurant known for creative modern cuisine, polished service, and a special-occasion atmosphere.
Hotel New York
A famous Rotterdam institution in the former Holland America Line headquarters, popular for seafood, Dutch classics, and historic waterfront ambiance.
Fenix Food Factory
Well-known waterfront food hall featuring local producers, bakery items, beer, cheese, and casual bites in an industrial setting.
Euro
Prices are high by Dutch standards for hotels and dining, though transit and casual food stay manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-18 for street food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 25-40 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good restaurant service is appreciated, not required. Round up taxis; small tips are optional in cafes and bars.
RET
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 4.42
- Day pass
- EUR 9.50
To the city center
Europoort Rotterdam -> Rotterdam Centraal
- Distance
- 38 km
- Travel time
- 45 min
- You can check in and out with a contactless bank card or mobile wallet on RET metro, tram, and bus services.
- For occasional travel, a RET 1 day ticket can be better value than single tickets if you make several trips in one day.
FAQs: Ferry from Colchester to Rotterdam
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Colchester to Rotterdam by ferry. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest ferry, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Rotterdam, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap ferry tickets from Colchester to Rotterdam can start from as little as $72 (€59) when you book in advance. The average ferry ticket price for Colchester to Rotterdam is $96 (€79) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by ferry from Colchester to Rotterdam is 6h 45m to travel the 152 miles (245 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest ferry from Colchester to Rotterdam leaves at 9:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest ferry from Colchester to Rotterdam leaves at 11:00 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct ferries a day from Colchester to Rotterdam with Stena Line. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct ferries.
Yes, you can book a cabin on sailings from Colchester to Rotterdam with Stena Line
Yes, travelling with a vehicle from Colchester to Rotterdam is possible with Stena Line.
Yes, travelling as a foot passenger from Colchester to Rotterdam is possible with with Stena Line. We recommend arriving at least one hour before the trip if you are travelling on foot but please check specific times for each route. If you need book your travel to the departure port check our trains, buses and flight options on Omio.
When taking a ferry from Colchester to Rotterdam, you can count on Stena Line for the best way to get you to Rotterdam. You can also check all possible ferry operators who offer a service between Colchester and Rotterdam and compare the amenities they offer before buying a ferry ticket.
A trip to Rotterdam from Colchester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 6h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a ferry from Colchester to Rotterdam is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Colchester and Rotterdam including taking a flight and ferry.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Rotterdam are:
- Erasmus Bridge, an iconic cable-stayed bridge known for its unique design and panoramic views of the city
- Markthal, a modern architectural marvel housing a vibrant food market and residential apartments
- Cube Houses, a set of innovative, tilted cube-shaped homes designed by architect Piet Blom
- Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, a renowned art museum featuring works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art
- Euromast, a towering observation tower offering sweeping views of Rotterdam and beyond.
The best things to do in Rotterdam include:
- Rotterdam Zoo, a renowned zoo featuring diverse animal exhibits and a focus on conservation and education
- Spido Harbor Tour, an exciting boat tour offering a unique perspective of Rotterdam's bustling port and skyline
- Delfshaven, a historic neighborhood with charming canals, quaint shops, and a rich maritime history
- Witte de Withstraat, a vibrant street known for its eclectic mix of art galleries, trendy bars, and restaurants
- Kralingse Bos, a beautiful park perfect for outdoor activities like walking, cycling, and picnicking.
Rotterdam is within the Schengen Area. Passport and visa requirements depend on your nationality. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the ferry as it is the most popular way to get from Colchester to Rotterdam among Omio's users.
Currently, UK citizens do not need a visa for short stays (up to 90 days in a 180-day period) for tourism or business in the Schengen Area. However, the new ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is scheduled to launch in late 2026. Once active, this digital travel authorization will be a mandatory pre-travel requirement for all UK passport holders.
The currency used in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Travelers generally find it more convenient to use cards, as most places accept debit and credit cards, though having some cash on hand is useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Rotterdam, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors and unofficial taxi services can also occur. It is advised to use licensed taxis and keep personal belongings secure to avoid common safety issues.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
More options for your journey from Colchester to Rotterdam
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular ferries to and from Rotterdam and Colchester
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