Port information & tips for Huizen
Huizen is a charming jewel on the shores of the Gooimeer and, as a former fishing village, impresses with its authentic Dutch character. The idyllic location in the heart of the Gooi region ensures a relaxed atmosphere where maritime tradition and modern quality of life blend harmoniously. Cultural highlights include the picturesque Old Harbour with its traditional Botter ships, as well as the Huizer Museum and the striking historical lime kilns. Cruise ships dock directly at the central Cruisekade in the port of Huizen, from where the inviting town center is easily accessible within about a ten-minute walk, inviting you to extensive discovery tours through the picturesque alleys and the surrounding nature.
Huizen, situated on the picturesque Gooimeer, primarily serves as a port for inland navigation and smaller cruises or charter trips. Accessibility is straightforward thanks to good road connections and proximity to international airports from the DACH region. There is no specific "cruise terminal" in the sense of large ocean cruises in Huizen, but the moorings are easily accessible.
Car
The port of Huizen is well-connected to the Dutch motorway network. You can reach Huizen easily from the direction of Amsterdam or Utrecht via the A1 or A27. Within Huizen, the N527 and N526 lead directly to the Gooimeer and the harbor areas. Parking options for short-term and long-term parkers can be found in the vicinity of the harbor, often in the form of public car parks. A targeted search for "Parken Hafen Huizen" or "Parkeerplaats Huizen Gooimeer" is advisable, as specific "Park & Cruise" offers, like those at large seaports, are less common here.
Train
The nearest major railway station is Hilversum Centraal, an important hub with good connections from all over Holland and beyond. From there, you can reach Huizen and the harbor area directly in about 20-30 minutes using local bus lines (e.g., line 320 towards Huizen). An alternative is the Naarden-Bussum station, which also has bus connections to Huizen. The journey from the station to the ship is comfortable thanks to short distances and regular buses.
Airplane
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is the nearest international airport and is located approximately 40 kilometers from Huizen. From Schiphol, you can reach Huizen easily by taking the train to Hilversum station and then the bus, or directly by taxi or rental car. The travel time by car or taxi is about 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Thanks to the short transfer times, arrival on the day of embarkation is usually recommended without any problems, though a pre-cruise hotel is always a good option for a more relaxed arrival.
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 same applies during the trip: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always observe the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
Huizen, situated on the picturesque Gooimeer, primarily serves as a port for inland navigation and smaller cruises or charter trips. Accessibility is straightforward thanks to good road connections and proximity to international airports from the DACH region. There is no specific "cruise terminal" in the sense of large ocean cruises in Huizen, but the moorings are easily accessible.
Car
The port of Huizen is well-connected to the Dutch motorway network. You can reach Huizen easily from the direction of Amsterdam or Utrecht via the A1 or A27. Within Huizen, the N527 and N526 lead directly to the Gooimeer and the harbor areas. Parking options for short-term and long-term parkers can be found in the vicinity of the harbor, often in the form of public car parks. A targeted search for "Parken Hafen Huizen" or "Parkeerplaats Huizen Gooimeer" is advisable, as specific "Park & Cruise" offers, like those at large seaports, are less common here.
Train
The nearest major railway station is Hilversum Centraal, an important hub with good connections from all over Holland and beyond. From there, you can reach Huizen and the harbor area directly in about 20-30 minutes using local bus lines (e.g., line 320 towards Huizen). An alternative is the Naarden-Bussum station, which also has bus connections to Huizen. The journey from the station to the ship is comfortable thanks to short distances and regular buses.
Airplane
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is the nearest international airport and is located approximately 40 kilometers from Huizen. From Schiphol, you can reach Huizen easily by taking the train to Hilversum station and then the bus, or directly by taxi or rental car. The travel time by car or taxi is about 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Thanks to the short transfer times, arrival on the day of embarkation is usually recommended without any problems, though a pre-cruise hotel is always a good option for a more relaxed arrival.
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 same applies during the trip: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always observe the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
The cruise port of Huizen, located in the picturesque Nautisch Kwartier, offers excellent connections and allows for a relaxed start to your shore excursion directly on the Gooimeer.
On Foot
You can reach the historic center of Huizen after a leisurely walk of about 20 minutes. The path leads through the charming Nautisch Kwartier and along well-maintained paths directly into the old village center with its traditional fishermen's houses and the Huizer Museum.
Bus (R-net & Transdev)
Modern buses, such as the fast R-net connection 320, stop within walking distance of the port and quickly connect the terminal to the central bus station. Thanks to the frequent service, you can easily reach the surrounding neighborhoods as well as neighboring cities like Hilversum or Amsterdam in a short time.
Taxi
Official taxis are available in the Nautisch Kwartier area at the port and offer premium service for individual trips. Distances within Huizen are short, allowing for direct and comfortable access to all regional sights and excursion destinations.
To make the most of your stay in Huizen, it is recommended to explore the maritime heritage directly on the waterfront in combination with a visit to the nearby, architecturally unique fortress town.
Oude Haven & Nautisch Kwartier
The historic harbor enchants with its traditional Botter fishing boats and, thanks to the atmospheric architecture of the Nautisch Kwartier, creates an ideal backdrop for a relaxed stroll directly along the quays.
Huizer Strand
This extensive coastal section on the Gooimeer offers a wonderful opportunity for relaxation by the water and, thanks to its location, is perfect for a short trip into nature as well as for a wide view over the glittering IJsselmeer.
Naarden-Vesting
Only a short drive from Huizen lies this spectacular star-shaped fortress town, which, with its history-steeped walls and picturesque alleys, also offers an unforgettable cultural experience in one of the best-preserved fortifications in Europe.
Nautisch Kwartier & Botterwerf
The picturesque Nautisch Kwartier is located directly at the cruise pier and impresses with its traditional architecture in the style of a historic fishing village right on the shores of the Gooimeer. A visit is particularly worthwhile due to the historic Botterwerf, where you can admire the authentic flat-bottomed boats, as well as the striking "Kalkovens," which today serve as stylish restaurants with excellent views. The first-class infrastructure offers numerous terrace cafes and well-maintained promenades, which are ideal for a relaxed shore excursion without long distances. It is best to explore the shipyard in the morning to experience the maritime craftsmanship, and enjoy the afternoon with a cool drink by the water before returning comfortably to your ship in just a few minutes.
The return journey to the port of Huizen is extremely relaxed and safe thanks to the town's compact structure and clear signage to the Nautisch Kwartier.
On Foot
A stroll from the historic center via Havenstraat leads you directly back to the port. The path is easy to find and, thanks to the prominent Kalkovens and signage to the Nautisch Kwartier, you can easily orient yourself at any time.
Taxi
Taxis are available at the central Oude Raadhuisplein square or can be conveniently called via the hotel receptions in town. Thanks to the short distances, you can reach your ship in just a few minutes and enjoy direct access right to the quay at the Nautisch Kwartier.
Public Transport
Regional buses take you to the central Huizen bus station, from where the port area is within walking distance. The paths are flat and allow for a punctual return to the berth, where you can always use the striking masts of the sailing ships as a visual guide.
