Port information & tips for Texel
Texel is the largest of the West Frisian Islands and a true natural paradise in the Dutch North Sea. The island impresses with endless sandy beaches, vast dune landscapes, and a relaxed maritime atmosphere that immediately slows down visitors. Particular highlights include the renowned Ecomare nature center, the interactive Kaap Skil museum, and the traditional Texelse Bierbrouwerij. Cruise ships dock in the charming harbor of Oudeschild at the Vissershaven quay. Thanks to the central location, guests can reach the picturesque village center of Oudeschild directly on foot while also benefiting from the short connection to the island's capital, Den Burg, which is easily accessible by bicycle or shuttle in about five kilometers.
Texel, the largest of the West Frisian Islands, is not a traditional starting point for ocean cruises, but it is visited by smaller expedition and river cruises. Arrival at the island's port, 't Horntje, always takes place via Den Helder on the mainland, from where a convenient ferry connection exists.
Car
The journey by car leads via the Dutch motorways A7 and A9 towards Den Helder. From there, the TESO ferry terminal is clearly signposted. Both short-term and long-term parking spaces are available directly at the ferry port in Den Helder, should you wish to leave your vehicle on the mainland. The ferry crossing takes about 20 minutes.
Train
The nearest train station is Den Helder, which is well connected to the Dutch rail network. Direct trains run from Amsterdam Centraal, taking about 1 hour and 15 minutes. From Den Helder station, you can easily reach the ferry terminal by bus (Line 33) in about 10-15 minutes or by taxi.
Airplane
The nearest international airport is Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS), around 90 kilometers from Den Helder. There is a direct train connection from Schiphol Airport to Den Helder, which takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a rental car; the drive to Den Helder then takes about 1.5 hours. For a relaxed arrival, an overnight stay in Amsterdam or Den Helder before the ferry crossing may be recommended.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
Texel, the largest of the West Frisian Islands, is not a traditional starting point for ocean cruises, but it is visited by smaller expedition and river cruises. Arrival at the island's port, 't Horntje, always takes place via Den Helder on the mainland, from where a convenient ferry connection exists.
Car
The journey by car leads via the Dutch motorways A7 and A9 towards Den Helder. From there, the TESO ferry terminal is clearly signposted. Both short-term and long-term parking spaces are available directly at the ferry port in Den Helder, should you wish to leave your vehicle on the mainland. The ferry crossing takes about 20 minutes.
Train
The nearest train station is Den Helder, which is well connected to the Dutch rail network. Direct trains run from Amsterdam Centraal, taking about 1 hour and 15 minutes. From Den Helder station, you can easily reach the ferry terminal by bus (Line 33) in about 10-15 minutes or by taxi.
Airplane
The nearest international airport is Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS), around 90 kilometers from Den Helder. There is a direct train connection from Schiphol Airport to Den Helder, which takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a rental car; the drive to Den Helder then takes about 1.5 hours. For a relaxed arrival, an overnight stay in Amsterdam or Den Helder before the ferry crossing may be recommended.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
From the picturesque port in Oudeschild, the largest Dutch Wadden Island is wonderful to discover and offers a comfortable onward journey into the heart of the island thanks to an excellent infrastructure.
On foot
The center of the charming village of Oudeschild is located directly on the harbor basin and can be easily reached within a few minutes. A walk along the quays also leads you directly to the famous Museum Kaap Skil and to cozy restaurants by the water.
TexelHopper and taxis
The flexible TexelHopper buses serve over 100 stopping points on the island and can be easily ordered to the port via app or telephone. In addition, taxis are available at the port area to take guests quickly and comfortably to the main town of Den Burg or to the extensive beaches.
Rental bicycles
Directly at the port, you will find professional rental stations for bicycles and e-bikes. Thanks to the flat landscape and the excellently signposted paths, you can explore the island's dune landscapes and polders in the typical Dutch way.
To make the most of your stay on Texel, a combination of the maritime charm of the harbor village Oudeschild and the impressive natural landscapes in the heart of the island is recommended.
Oudeschild
The picturesque harbor village of Oudeschild delights visitors with its authentic fishing fleet and the award-winning Museum Kaap Skil; additionally, the lively harbor promenade is perfect for a first walk in the fresh sea breeze thanks to its proximity to the pier.
Ecomare & Nationalpark Duinen van Texel
In the midst of the extensive dune landscape, the nature center Ecomare offers fascinating insights into the world of North Sea seals and is also the ideal starting point for hikes through the protected national park, which creates a unique nature experience thanks to its untouched flora and fauna.
Den Burg
As the lively center of the island, Den Burg impresses with its historic gabled houses and charming boutiques; furthermore, the ring-shaped town center can be perfectly explored during a relaxed stroll and offers the ideal opportunity to enjoy local specialties thanks to numerous cafes.
Paal 17 Beach Section
The extensive beach section of Paal 17, located near the charming seaside resort of De Koog, is easily accessible from the port of Oudeschild in about fifteen minutes by taxi and embodies the ultimate island flair of Texel. A wonderfully wide, white sandy beach awaits you here, ideal for relaxing in the dunes or for a long walk by the sea. Thanks to the excellent infrastructure of the modern beach pavilion, you can also enjoy first-class gastronomy and cozy lounge areas, including a wide panoramic view of the North Sea. This place is perfect for a relaxing shore excursion, as it perfectly combines high-quality relaxation with a vital atmosphere. Ideally, start your excursion in the early morning to enjoy the expanse of the beach in peace, and plan your return journey to the port about ninety minutes before departure to end the day in a relaxed manner.
The return journey to your ship in Oudeschild is very relaxed and safe thanks to the island's excellent infrastructure.
TexelHopper and bus services
The TexelHopper serves over 150 stops across the entire island and takes you directly back to the port of Oudeschild after a simple advance reservation. In addition, the regular bus service between the larger towns such as Den Burg ensures a reliable return and enables you to arrive at the ship on time.
Taxi
You will find taxis for a comfortable transfer at any time at central locations in Den Burg, as well as in front of large hotels and well-known excursion destinations. The local drivers know the departure times of the ships exactly and, thanks to their local knowledge, will take you back to the port area safely and via the fastest route.
Bicycle and walking path
Thanks to the excellently signposted network of cycle paths, you can get back to Oudeschild safely and directly from the beaches or villages with a rental bike. The return path within the charming port town is also clearly signposted and leads you comfortably back to the gangway via level paths.
