- Must visit
Colchester Castle Museum
Major museum inside the Norman castle, presenting Roman finds and town history. Essential for understanding Colchester from Iron Age to modern times.
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The cheapest and fastest ferries from Rotterdam to Colchester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 17
Cheapest price on Oct 17
$88
Average ticket price on Oct 17
$97
Fastest journey on Oct 17
6 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Oct 17
7 h 30 m
Ferries on Oct 17
3
Distance
245 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap ferry ticket from Rotterdam to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Rotterdam to Colchester will cost around $97 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $88.
Fast ferries
On Sat, Oct 17, we found 3 ferries from Rotterdam to Colchester, including 3 direct services.
On Sat, Oct 17 the direct ferries cover the 245 km distance in an average of 7 h 30 m but if you time it right, some ferries will get you there in just 6 h 30 m .
On Sat, Oct 17 the slowest ferries will take 9 h 30 m 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.
12:15 PM6h30Rotterdam6:45 PMColchester$881One-way0 transfers- 1:15 PM6h30Rotterdam7:45 PMColchester$911One-way0 transfers
- 8:00 PM9h30Rotterdam5:30 AMColchester$1111One-way0 transfers
- 1:15 PM6h30Rotterdam7:45 PMColchester$911One-way0 transfers
- 12:15 PM6h30Rotterdam6:45 PMColchester$881One-way0 transfers
- 8:00 PM9h30Rotterdam5:30 AMColchester$1111One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Ferry from Rotterdam to Colchester
Netherlands
United Kingdom
Ferries from Rotterdam to Colchester run on average 2 times per day, taking around 7h 57m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at $83 (€69) but you can travel from only $26 (€22) by train.
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 30m. Ferries from Rotterdam to Colchester 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
Train from $26 (€22)
Official Omio partners on this route
Distance 132 nautical miles (245 km) |
Average sailing duration 7h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $83 (€69) |
Ferries per day 2 |
Direct ferries Available |
Fastest ferry 6h 30m |
First ferry 9:00 AM |
Last ferry 11:00 PM |
Cabins Available |
Vehicles Available |
Foot passengers Available |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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
Train from $26 (€22)
Rotterdam to Colchester Ferry Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 02:15PM | Arrival Time 07:45PM | Duration 6h30 | Sailing Days Fri |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 05:30AM | Duration 9h30 | Sailing Days Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 01:15PM | Arrival Time 07:45PM | Duration 6h30 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 9h30 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 10:00PM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 9h30 | Sailing Days Fri, Sun |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 12:15PM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 6h30 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 07:45PM | Duration 7h00 | Sailing Days Sun |
Live departures
Rotterdam to Colchester ferry times
The table below shows live departures for Rotterdam to Colchester ferries for today, Friday, October 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stena Line | 2:15 PM Port of Hoek van Holland | 6h30 | 7:45 PM Harwich International Port | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Stena Line | 10:00 PM Port of Hoek van Holland | 9h30 | 6:30 AM Harwich International Port | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last ferry of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Ferry operators: Stena Line from Rotterdam to ColchesterYou can travel by ferry between Rotterdam to Colchester with Stena Line for as low as $26 (€22). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey.
Stena Line
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Stena Line Duration
6h 30m
Cheapest Stena Line Price
$83 (€69)
Stena Line frequency
4 a day
Complete guide to Colchester
Things to do in Colchester
Discover the best of Colchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Colchester trip today.
- Recommended
The Military Museum
Award-winning museum on former barracks, covering military life and the Essex Regiment. Strong collections make it a standout for social and army history.
- Recommended
Colchester Natural History Museum
Natural history museum in a former church, with local wildlife, geology, and family displays. A useful stop for learning about Essex's environment.
- Must visit
Castle Park
Historic park around the castle with formal planting, Roman walls, and central lawns. A classic place to relax while exploring the old town.
- Recommended
Dutch Quarter
Charming conservation area of timber-framed buildings and narrow streets, reflecting the town's links with Dutch and Flemish settlers.
- Recommended
High Street
Main shopping and historic street lined with heritage buildings, independent businesses, and civic landmarks. A practical and atmospheric town-centre walk.
- Gluten-free
Colchester Native Oysters
Colchester Native Oysters are famed shellfish from local estuaries, eaten raw or dressed. They are one of Britain’s oldest recorded regional delicacies.
Essex Eel Pie
Essex Eel Pie is a traditional regional pie of chopped eel in rich gravy. It reflects the historic importance of estuary fishing in Essex.
- Vegetarian
Tiptree Jam Tart
Tiptree Jam Tart uses the county’s famous Wilkin & Sons preserves in a simple buttery tart. It is a classic Essex tea-room style dessert.
Kintsu
Well-regarded modern British restaurant serving seasonal tasting-style plates in an intimate, refined atmosphere.
Church Street Tavern
Established seafood restaurant known for oysters, fish and polished service in a smart but relaxed setting near the town centre.
The Cafe at The Minories
Popular casual venue for brunch, coffee and comfort food with a stylish interior and a strong local following.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining cost less than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly manageable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants may add service; if not, tip 10-12% for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Tipping in cafes is optional.
FAQs: Ferry from Rotterdam to Colchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rotterdam to Colchester 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 Colchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap ferry tickets from Rotterdam to Colchester can start from as little as $83 (€69) when you book in advance. The average ferry ticket price for Rotterdam to Colchester is $137 (€115) ; 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 Rotterdam to Colchester is 6h 30m 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 Rotterdam to Colchester leaves at 9:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest ferry from Rotterdam to Colchester leaves at 11:00 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct ferries a day from Rotterdam to Colchester with Stena Line. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct ferries.
Yes, you can book a cabin on sailings from Rotterdam to Colchester with Stena Line
Yes, travelling with a vehicle from Rotterdam to Colchester is possible with Stena Line.
Yes, travelling as a foot passenger from Rotterdam to Colchester is possible 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 to book your travel to the departure port, check our trains, buses and flight options on Omio.
When taking a ferry from Rotterdam to Colchester, you can count on Stena Line for the best way to get you to Colchester. You can also check all possible ferry operators who offer a service between Rotterdam and Colchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a ferry ticket.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Rotterdam and Colchester including taking a flight and ferry.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Colchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the town center and near popular attractions. Common scams include overcharging by taxis that are not licensed and fraudulent street vendors. It's advisable to use official transportation services and remain vigilant in crowded places to avoid these 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 Rotterdam to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular ferries to and from Colchester and Rotterdam
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