cruise from new york to amsterdam

USA to Netherlands Cruises

There are cruises from the United States to the Netherlands, including a special round-trip journey. Five cruise lines offer the voyages. See the full schedule of departures below.

US to the Netherlands cruises depart from Florida and Boston. The ports they visit in the Netherlands include Rotterdam and Amsterdam.

Cruises to the Netherlands and cruises to Holland are the same thing. Holland is actually a part of the Netherlands, but it is often used to refer to the entire nation.

April 7, 2024: 14-day cruise to the Netherlands on Holland America Line . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Rotterdam (Netherlands). Visit Bermuda, St Peter Port (Guernsey), Le Havre (France) and Zeebrugge (Belgium).

April 13, 2024: 14-day cruise to the Netherlands on Holland America Line . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Rotterdam (Netherlands). Visit Ponta Delgada (Azores), Brest (France), Portland (England), Le Havre (France) and Dover (England).

April 22, 2024: 13-night cruise to the Netherlands on Celebrity Cruises . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Amsterdam (Netherlands). Visit Royal Naval Dockyard (Bermuda), Ponta Delgada (Azores) and Cork (Ireland).

May 11, 2024: 14-day cruise to the Netherlands on Holland America Line . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Amsterdam (Netherlands). Visit Bermuda, Brest (France), Cork (Ireland), Falmouth (England), Cherbourg (France) and Zeebrugge (Belgium).

June 24, 2024: 36-day cruise to the Netherlands on Viking . One-way from New York to Amsterdam (Netherlands). Visit Halifax (Canada), L'Anse aux Meadows (Canada), Qaqortoq (Greenland), Nanortalik (Greenland), Isafjordur (Iceland), Akureyri (Iceland), Seydisfjordur (Iceland), Djupivogur (Iceland), Heimaey (Iceland), Reykjavik (Iceland), Longyearbyen (Norway), Honningsvag (Norway), Tromso (Norway), Lofoten (Norway), Narvik (Norway), Geiranger (Norway), Bergen (Norway), Flam (Norway), Stavanger (Norway), Oslo (Norway), Kristiansand (Norway) and Skagen (Denmark).

April 5, 2025: 15-day cruise to the Netherlands on Holland America Line . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Rotterdam (Netherlands). Visit Bermuda, Falmouth (England), Portland (England), Le Havre (France) and Dover (England).

April 12, 2025: 14-day cruise to the Netherlands on Holland America Line . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Rotterdam (Netherlands). Visit Bermuda, Portland (England), Southampton (England) and Zeebrugge (Belgium).

May 18, 2025: 36-day cruise to the Netherlands on Viking . One-way from New York (New York) to Amsterdam (Netherlands). Visit Halifax (Canada), L'Anse aux Meadows (Canada), Qaqortoq (Greenland), Nanortalik (Greenland), Isafjordur (Iceland), Akureyri (Iceland), Seydisfjordur (Iceland), Djupivogur (Iceland), Heimaey (Iceland), Reykjavik (Iceland), Isafjordur (Iceland), Longyearbyen (Norway), Honningsvag (Norway), Tromso (Norway), Lofoten (Norway), Narvik (Norway), Geiranger (Norway), Bergen (Norway), Flam (Norway), Stavanger (Norway), Kristiansand (Norway), Oslo (Norway) and Skagen (Denmark).

July 27, 2025: 36-day cruise to the Netherlands on Viking . One-way from New York (New York) to Amsterdam (Netherlands). Visit Halifax (Canada), L'Anse aux Meadows (Canada), Qaqortoq (Greenland), Nanortalik (Greenland), Isafjordur (Iceland), Akureyri (Iceland), Seydisfjordur (Iceland), Djupivogur (Iceland), Heimaey (Iceland), Reykjavik (Iceland), Isafjordur (Iceland), Longyearbyen (Norway), Honningsvag (Norway), Tromso (Norway), Lofoten (Norway), Narvik (Norway), Geiranger (Norway), Bergen (Norway), Flam (Norway), Stavanger (Norway), Kristiansand (Norway), Oslo (Norway) and Skagen (Denmark).

Amsterdam cruises

Amsterdam cruises 2024.

Would you love to see Amsterdam in full bloom in the spring, or would you prefer to explore wintery streets filled with aromas of glühwein and chestnuts? Find a selection of cruises in 2024 that visit Amsterdam directly, or take a tour from the bustling port of Rotterdam.

Amsterdam cruises 2025

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Cruises from New York to Amsterdam

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Cruises from New York to Amsterdam

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $292 pp not included.

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Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $332 pp not included.

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Holland America Amsterdam

The Holland America ms Amsterdam is the flagship of the Holland America Line fleet. As such, she has the traditional style and modern technology expected of a great luxury cruise ship. From the abundant art to the fine food in the alternative restaurants, you'll go first class.

Popular amenities on the ms Amsterdam include cooking demonstrations in the Culinary Arts Center, the Crow's Nest nightclub at the top of the ship, the restful Greenhouse Spa and Salon, and the Club HAL activities for kids. Read a Holland America Amsterdam cruise review .

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Amsterdam to New York

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Grand Fjords & Iconic Viking Shores

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Explore the far north while sailing across the Arctic Circle and along the distant shores of Norway, Iceland, Greenland and Canada. Visit charming Oslo and Reykjavík and admire Honningsvåg’s remote North Cape. Enjoy overnight stays in Bergen and Longyearbyen, home to more polar bears than people, and gaze upon the Westman Islands’ volcanic landscape. Discover the history of Viking exploration in the New World, and revel in the maritime heritage of Halifax.

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Cruises From Amsterdam

Cruises from Amsterdam offer the chance to explore a dynamic, vibrant city with a laid-back vibe. Take it. Go to the city center and stroll through top art museums, including the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. At Dam Square, walk in the steps of royalty at the Royal Palace before boating or biking through the fairytale-like Canal Belt. As you make your way through Amsterdam’s famed waterways, pick up Dutch tulips at Bloemenmarkt, a floating flower market then wander and window-shop de Jordaan. Sample bitterballen (Dutch meatballs) and stroopwafel (caramel wafer cookies) from street vendors before you cruise from Amsterdam.

Europe Cruises    |    Mediterranean Cruises    |    Northern Europe Cruises    |    Scandinavian & Baltic Sea Cruises    |    Transatlantic Cruises

Things To Do In Amsterdam

De Gooyer Windmill

Anne Frank House

Eye Film Institute

Lord in the Attic Museum

Royal Palace Museum

Lanskroon Bakery

• Acropolis Display
• Kastella & Mikrolimano
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Amsterdam at a glance.

When was Amsterdam founded?  October 27, 1275  

Where is Amsterdam located?  Amsterdam is located in the western part of the Netherlands  

What is the population of Amsterdam?  It is estimated to have a population of 1,149,000 in 2020

What language is primarily spoken?  Dutch

What is the time zone of Amsterdam, Netherlands?   Central European Time (CET) and Central European Summer Time (CEST)          GMT/UTC +1h during Central European Time         GMT/UTC +2h during Central European Summer Time

What currency is used in Amsterdam, Netherlands?  Euro (EUR )

Travel Tips for Amsterdam

How do I book a flight to Amsterdam?  At Holland America we offer cruise travelers low prices on their flights. Please see more information on our  Flight Ease program here .

Where should I stay when cruising from Amsterdam?  We offer hotel packages to our already booked guests. For more information, visit our  hotel packages and pre- or post-travel arrangements .

What are some of the top places to see in  Amsterdam ?  Visit our  Amsterdam port page  for more information on our top travel recommendations.

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10 Beautiful Cruises From New York City You Should Try

• NYC offers a variety of cruises to tropical, cultural, and transatlantic destinations. Departing from NYC are popular cruise lines like NCL and Carnival.
• NYC's cruise terminals offer state-of-the-art amenities and are conveniently located near airports and major roadways, making it a great place to start and end a cruise.
• Each cruise on this list has been carefully chosen based on cost, itinerary, and TripAdvisor reviews, offering a range of options for short trips or longer vacations.

Whether looking for a tropical retreat, a cultural excursion, or a transatlantic adventure, New York City offers cruises to experience a variety of destinations. NYC is a well-known cruise port with trips to the Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada, New England, and even across the Atlantic. So, the choices are plenty for both short-term travel to tropical islands and extended cruises to Europe and beyond. The best thing is that many of the world's biggest cruise lines , including NCL, Carnival, Disney, Princess, and many more, depart from New York City.

There's nowhere better to begin and end a cruise than NYC, the city of the iconic skyline, Broadway productions, top-notch museums, and superb dining and shopping . Additionally, its cruise terminals—the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, and Cape Liberty Cruise Port —offer state-of-the-art amenities and are conveniently located near all NYC airports and major roadways. So, without further ado, check out these 10 cruises from New York City and plan an unforgettable and experience-packed sea vacation.

Every cruise from New York City on this list has been carefully chosen based on a number of standards, such as cost, itinerary, and experience provided. While selecting the cruises, we also took TripAdvisor reviews into account. We provided a range of cruises, from short-day trips to longer cruises. Just pick one that best suits you, and have a memorable trip.

Related: 10 Cheap Cruises Ranked By Their 2024 Prices

Bahamas Cruises

Discover the world of white sands and turquoise waters.

A cruise from New York to the Bahamas is one of the best ways to enjoy sun-soaked beaches, water activities, and a glimpse of the lively Bahamian culture all in one vacation. There are multiple cruises to the Bahamas that usually stop along the way in thriving ports like Freeport and Nassau. This 7-night Bahamas cruise has a 3.5-star rating on TripAdvisor and begins with passengers boarding the Royal Caribbean Anthem of the Seas at Cape Liberty, New Jersey. The trip stops at Port Canaveral in Florida, CocoCay, and Nassau, where passengers can take advantage of white-sand beaches , dazzling oceans, thrilling activities, island food, and duty-free shopping.

• Cruise: 7-Night Cruise to the Bahamas
• Stops: Bayonne (Cape Liberty), Port Canaveral (Orlando), Perfect Day at CocoCay , Nassau, Bayonne (Cape Liberty)
• Cost: From $773 per person
• What's beautiful: Turquoise waters, white sands, Bahamian culture, island food, exhilarating activities

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Bermuda Cruises

Sail to the pink sandy beaches and turquoise waters of bermuda.

A cruise to Bermuda is perhaps the best choice for individuals looking for a spectacular cruise experience but just have a few days available. Many cruise lines provide four- or five-day cruises from New York to Bermuda. However, Liberty of the Seas , one of the top Royal Caribbean cruise ships , offers a 5-day voyage that allows tourists to enjoy Bermuda's pastel-painted estates, pink sand beaches, and turquoise shoreline and has a TripAdvisor rating of 4/5. The journey begins at the Cape Liberty cruise port, and after a day at sea, it docks at the historic Royal Naval Dockyard for days three and four. Here, travelers can experience charming villages, beaches, British colonial properties, delicious cuisine, and the amazing island's charm before returning to New York City.

• Cruise: 5 Night Cruise to Bermuda
• Stops: Bayonne (Cape Liberty), King's Wharf, King's Wharf, Bayonne (Cape Liberty)
• Cost: From $412 per person
• What's beautiful: Liberty of the Seas's exciting adventures and delectable meals onboard, Bermuda's pink beaches, azure shorelines, British colonial landmarks, delicious local cuisine

New England And Canada Cruises

Experience the charm of the coastal towns of new england and canada.

One of the most exquisite cruises from New York City is to Canada and New England, which offers an exquisite fusion of picturesque coastline scenery, historic charm, and regional cuisine. Passengers enjoy breathtaking views of charming seaside New England towns , famous lighthouses, gorgeous landscapes, and a rich maritime history as they sail down the Atlantic coast. From four to twenty-three days, there are numerous possibilities for cruising from New York City to Canada and New England; all of them let passengers fully experience the natural beauty and local culture. An 11-night cruise to Canada and New England from New York City onboard the Norwegian Sky has a 3.5/5 rating on TripAdvisor and includes stops in classic destinations, such as Bar Harbor, Boston, and Quebec City, exhibiting spectacular splendor along the way.

• Cruise: 11 Night Cruise to Canada & New England
• Stops: New York (Manhattan), Martha's Vineyard (Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven), Boston, Portland (Maine), Saint John (New Brunswick), Halifax, Sydney (Nova Scotia), Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island), Saguenay, Quebec City
• Cost: From $779 per person
• What's beautiful: Magnificent vistas of iconic lighthouses, quaint coastal towns, stunning scenery, a historic maritime past, and regional cuisine

Related: 10 Tips To Know Before Booking That Cruise

Eastern Caribbean Cruises

Enjoy tropical bliss and cultural experiences.

Taking a cruise from New York City to the Eastern Caribbean is an incredible experience that allows travelers to embrace the serene beauty of a tropical paradise. Journeying to picturesque locations like St. Thomas, St. Lucia, Barbados, Antigua, St. Kitts, and Puerto Rico, travelers discover an array of islands, customs, and landmarks encompassing volcanic peaks and coral reefs. The itinerary offers an ideal blend of thrilling water activities, vibrant cultural experiences, relaxation on pristine beaches, and island hopping in style . This 9-night cruise to the Eastern Caribbean onboard Royal Caribbean's Liberty of the Sea has a 4-star rating on TripAdvisor and promises an adventure full of unforgettable moments while stopping at King's Wharf, St. Maarten, San Juan, and Labadee.

• Cruise: 9 Night Cruise to the Eastern Caribbean
• Stops: Bayonne (Cape Liberty), King's Wharf, St. Maarten, San Juan, Labadee, Bayonne (Cape Liberty)
• Cost: From $896 per person
• What's beautiful: Turquoise waters, exotic ports, cultural experiences, delicious cuisine, and exhilarating water activities

Related: 10 Best St Thomas Cruises Where You Can Sail Into Paradise

Transatlantic Cruises

Enjoy endless horizons, ocean vistas, majestic seascapes.

A transatlantic cruise from New York City offers travelers a long, relaxing trip across the Atlantic Ocean to European ports such as Southampton, Belfast, and Bruges. The pristine ocean, the enchanting sunsets, and the breathtaking views of the open sea all add to the cruise's exceptional beauty. The 14-night Transatlantic Cruise by Norwegian Getaway visits Halifax, Dublin, Belfast, Amsterdam, Brugge (Bruges), Le Havre, and Southampton along historic routes. The journey is a delight as passengers enjoy the breathtaking scenery, a plethora of cultural experiences, as well as luxurious amenities and exquisite dining onboard.

• Cruise: 14 Night Cruise to Transatlantic
• Stops: New York (Manhattan), Halifax, Dublin, Belfast, Amsterdam, Brugge (Bruges), Le Havre, Southampton
• Cost: From $849 per person
• What's beautiful: Amazing ocean vistas, lovely landscapes, historical landmarks, cultural experiences, regional cuisines

Mediterranean Cruises

Enjoy the timeless beauty of azure seas and historic coasts.

A cruise to the Mediterranean from New York is a genuinely captivating experience that offers passengers the chance to discover numerous famous historical landmarks, stunning scenery, and dynamic cultures. The cruise offers a distinctive transatlantic experience by taking travelers across the Atlantic Ocean, leaving the NYC cityscape behind. And MSC Divina 's 16-night cruise to the Mediterranean takes passengers to captivating ports , such as King's Wharf, Ponta Delgada, Lisbon, Barcelona, and Rome, all of which are rich in architectural wonders and history. The cruise is the best way to immerse oneself in azure beauty, amazing cultures, exciting adventures, delectable cuisine, and much more, elevating the overall experience.

• Cruise: 16 Night Cruise to the Mediterranean
• Stops: New York (Brooklyn, Red Hook), King's Wharf, Ponta Delgada, Lisbon, Barcelona, Rome
• Cost: From $919 per person
• What's beautiful: Azure waters, charming coastal towns, historic architecture, majestic islands, spectacular sunsets, heritage sites, Mediterranean flora, diverse cuisine

Southern Caribbean Cruises

Experience unparalleled serenity and distinct island charms.

Unmatched nature splendor in the form of crystal-clear waters, immaculate beaches, and dynamic cultures await travelers on a Southern Caribbean cruise from New York City. The itinerary includes stops in various tropical paradises, such as the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao), offering a varied mosaic of experiences and vistas. An 11-night cruise to the Southern Caribbean offered by Royal Caribbean International Odyssey of the Seas is one of the best options to enjoy the incredible beauty and culture of St. Maarten , St. Lucia, Barbados, and St. Kitts. Travelers will have the opportunity to snorkel in coral reefs, stroll through colorful markets, and indulge in local cuisine.

• Cruise: 11 Night Cruise to the Southern Caribbean
• Stops: Bayonne (Cape Liberty), St. Maarten, St. Lucia, Barbados, St. Kitts (Port Zante)
• Cost: From $1,646 per person
• What's beautiful: Array of exotic destinations, crystal-clear waters, immaculate beaches, and dynamic cultures

Baltic Sea Cruises

Appreciate historic cities, picturesque landscapes, and cultural extravaganza.

Among the most exquisite cruises from New York City is a Baltic Sea cruise, offering a complete package of breathtaking scenery, historic cities, delicious delights, and varied cultural traditions. Passengers setting out on this amazing journey enjoy a fantastic trip through Northern Europe's iconic destinations. Cunard Queen Mary 2 offers trips around the Baltic Sea, with stops in some of Northern Europe's magical cities such as Southampton, Kristiansund, Olden, Innvikfjorden, Nordfjord, Alesund, Stavanger, and Oslofjord, each with its own historical significance and architectural wonders. Cruisers can take in the stunning scenery of the Baltic shores as well as enjoy the cultural immersion.

• Cruise: 21 Night Cruise to the Baltic Sea
• Stops: New York (Manhattan), Southampton, Kristiansund, Olden, Innvikfjorden, Nordfjord, Alesund, Stavanger, Oslofjord
• Cost: From $4,699 per person
• What's beautiful: Historic cities, charming ports, stunning architecture, cultural richness, captivating landscapes, and diverse Baltic cultures

Western Caribbean Cruises

Breathtaking natural beauty and cultural richness.

A Western Caribbean cruise from New York City takes travelers to picturesque tropical destinations like Cozumel, Grand Cayman, and Jamaica, allowing them to immerse themselves in turquoise waters, stunning beaches, and vibrant cultures. Travelers explore the sun-drenched Caribbean paradise after soaking in the cosmopolitan allure of New York City, where they enjoy the warm weather, historical landmarks, and water sports. Unquestionably, the 11-night Western Caribbean cruise on the MSC Meraviglia is a breathtaking getaway to incomparably beautiful places like Cozumel , Costa Maya, Miami, and Port Canaveral. The best part is that MSC Meraviglia offers a one-night stay on Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve , their exclusive private island in the Bahamas.

• Cruise: 11 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean
• Stops: New York (Brooklyn, Red Hook), Port Canaveral (Orlando), Cozumel, Costa Maya, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Miami
• Cost: From $959 per person
• What's beautiful: Turquoise waters, pristine beaches, lush landscapes, vibrant cultures, delicious cuisines

Fall Foliage Cruises

Witness the breathtaking autumn colors along the coasts.

Embark on a journey to witness the breathtaking autumn colors along the coasts of New England and Canada, or travelers may also opt for a boat cruise up the Hudson River . However, nothing compares to the excitement of seeing the leaves change color in Canada when sailing the Norwegian Joy in the fall. The 8-Night Cruise to Canada & New England from Manhattan, New York, stops at ports in Boston, Portland (Maine), Sydney (Nova Scotia), Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island), Saguenay, and Quebec City. While witnessing a breathtaking tapestry of autumn hues along picturesque coastlines, the journey also offers incredible cultural, adventure, and dining experiences.

• Cruise: 8 Night Cruise to Canada & New England
• Stops: New York (Manhattan), Boston, Portland (Maine), Sydney (Nova Scotia), Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island), Saguenay, Quebec City
• Cost: From $529 per person
• What's beautiful: Unparalleled views of the iconic autumnal scenery along the coastline, exciting adventures, seasonal dining, cultural experiences

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'Expensive in every way': What travelers should expect this summer

Summer travel in 2024 will be "expensive in every way," said Katharine Nohr. And she should know.

She's planning a two-week adventure to Europe in June, which starts with a marathon flight from Honolulu to Zurich, where she'll speak at a conference. Then, she's hopscotching across Europe – to Vienna, then on to the Olympics. Nohr made plans to be in Nantes, France, to watch a soccer game, in Lille for basketball, and in Paris for gymnastics, boxing, and swimming.

Check out   Elliott Confidential , the newsletter the travel industry doesn't want you to read. Each issue is filled with breaking news, deep insights, and exclusive strategies for becoming a better traveler. But don't tell anyone!

All told, it'll set her back five figures despite her best efforts, which include flying economy class and staying in the lowest-priced hotels. 

"The trip is pricey, even with my efforts to economize," said Nohr, an attorney from Honolulu. "But it's a once-in-my-life adventure." 

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Summer travelers are pursuing exciting, expensive vacations

Nohr is part of a wave of travelers who are making big plans for this summer. The itineraries are exciting – and expensive. 

Pretty much every barometer of travel intent is up for the summer travel season. Inflation and unemployment are low, and consumer sentiment and curiosity are high, fueling an unprecedented interest in travel during the summer of 2024. 

"Bookings are rising," said Susan Sherren, who runs Couture Trips , a travel agency. "Unfortunately, hotel, tour, and air prices are not falling. So, if you plan on hitting the road this summer, make sure you are willing to splash some cash."

Travel companies say they're overwhelmed with summer reservations.

"The travel economy is booming," said Joe Ialacci, owner of Yacht Hampton Boating Club , a company that rents yachts in Sag Harbor, New York. He's seeing a 40% increase in rentals this summer compared to last year as Americans shift some of their vacation dollars to domestic destinations.

Prices aren't the only thing trending higher. People's expectations for their summer vacation are also higher than at any time since the pandemic, said Sangeeta Sadarangani, CEO of Crossing , a multinational travel agency headquartered in London. 

"They're embracing the unknown," she said.

And one of the great unknowns is travel prices. How much higher will they be?

What will prices be like this summer?

It depends on where you're going. There's good news if you're traveling within the U.S.: flights and hotels are a little less expensive than last summer . But they're rising elsewhere. Here's the breakdown:

• Airfares are mixed. Domestic roundtrip airfares for summer will peak at $315 per ticket, according to the travel platform Hopper . Flights to Europe are cheaper, too. They've fallen 10% from last year to $882. But flights to South America are up 2% and flights to Canada have risen 7%. You'll pay an average of $708 to fly south of the border and $419 to head north.
• U.S. hotel rates are down. Domestically, they're about the same as last year at an average of $206 per night.
• Car rental prices are rising. Average domestic car rental rates are only up 3% this summer to $42 per day on a four-day rental, according to Hopper. 

But you can avoid the high prices with a little strategic planning, experts say.

What to avoid this summer

American travelers are becoming more predictable in their summer vacation choices, said John Lovell, president of Travel Leaders Group . Immediately after the pandemic, they embarked on "revenge" vacations to far-flung locations. Now they're returning to more conventional vacations.

"We continue to see U.S. travelers heading back to the more traditional locations across Europe this year, like London, Rome, Athens and Munich," he said.

There are places that will be exceptionally busy – and exceptionally pricey – this summer.

• Paris during the Olympics. The Olympic Games are taking place in Paris this summer. Rooms are more than double the normal rates . which is typical of the Olympics. Paris is already crowded with tourists during the summer, so you can probably imagine what it will be like with the Olympics. Zut, alors!
• Taylor Swift is touring Europe this summer. Prices will be higher and the crowds will be denser. "If you aren't planning to attend one of her concerts, I recommend planning around those European cities when she's there," said Betsy Ball, co-founder of Euro Travel Coach . (Want to know if your schedules overlap? Here's Taylor Swift's concert schedule .)
• Other big summer events. Even if you steer clear of Taylor and the Olympics, you're still not out of the woods. There's the UEFA Euro 2024 football tournament in Germany in June. There's the Tour de France in July, which begins in Florence and finishes in Nice. France is also hosting the Paralympic Games in August and September, which will take place in Paris, Nice, Marseille and Bordeaux.

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When is the best time to book a 2024 summer vacation?

Since this is going to be a busy one, the sooner you book, the better. Hopper recommends buying your airfare two to three months before your departure for domestic flights, and for international – well, it's probably too late to get that rock-bottom fare. If you're reading this in April, you can still find something for late August or early September, according to its airfare experts.

As always, you can save money by booking a flight for midweek instead of on the weekend – and, of course, by keeping far, far away from the big travel holidays like Memorial Day, the Fourth of July and Labor Day. 

Also, if you're going overseas, remember their holiday calendar is different. For example, half of Europe shuts down during August for summer vacation. It's worth a look-up, otherwise, you could face some real disappointments.

Strategies for traveling better during the summer

One tactic that consistently works is splitting your getaway into two sections. Take that required summer vacation with your family somewhere less expensive during the high season. Then, wait until shoulder season for the big trip. 

That's what Ross Copas, a retired electrician from Tweed, Canada, is doing during the summer of 2024. It's a road trip across the northern U.S. by motorcycle – New York to Washington State, and then back east through Canada. 

Then he's heading to Amsterdam in September for a 23-day European river cruise. He said the late summer getaway will be costly, but he doubts fares will fall anytime soon. "So price be damned," he added.

Actually, that's pretty smart. I took the same cruise he's planning on Viking River Cruises many years ago, and it was worth every penny.

With hotel rates rising in some places this summer, this is the right time to consider alternatives. Monica Fish, a writer from Glen Rock, N.J., is headed to Ireland to catch one of Taylor Swift's performances. She said hotel rooms in Dublin are overpriced if they're even available. But Fish found an affordable vacation rental. 

"We just had to book it farther in advance than we normally would," she said. 

Go ahead, follow the crowds this summer

I think it's fine to follow the crowds this summer. I'll be doing it. I'm planning to rent an apartment for a month in Switzerland with Blueground, a long-term apartment rental company. Then I'm crashing on a friend's sofa in Spain, then heading to Sweden to see other friends and visiting my brother in Finland. Yes, travel writers know people everywhere . 

But don't follow the crowds off a cliff. There are places even I won't go. I might take the four-hour train trip from Zurich to Paris in June to check out my favorite patisseries, but I wouldn't go anywhere near the City of Lights during the summer games in July unless I made a reservation a long time ago.

And Taylor Swift? Puh-leeze. I'm more of a jazz guy.

Christopher Elliott  is an author, consumer advocate, and journalist. He founded  Elliott Advocacy , a nonprofit organization that helps solve consumer problems. He publishes  Elliott Confidential , a travel newsletter, and the  Elliott Report , a news site about customer service. If you need help with a consumer problem, you can  reach him here  or email him at  [email protected] .

Cruises from Amsterdam to New York (Manhattan)

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Cruises out of Amsterdam To New York City

Cruises departing from amsterdam to new york city.

If you have been searching for cruises from Amsterdam to New-York-City, then you have come to the right place. On Cruise Booking, you can book a wide range of cruises from Amsterdam to New-York-City. Make sure you take advantage of the low prices before they are raised!

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16 nights | transatlantic | oceania cruises | sirena.

• Interior $3,399.00
• Oceanview $3,799.00
• Balcony $4,799.00
• Suite $6,899.00

27 Nights | Transatlantic | Oceania Cruises | Sirena

• Oceanview $6,899.00
• Balcony $9,399.00
• Suite $12,799.00

35 Nights | Northern Europe | Viking Ocean | Viking Vela

• Balcony $20,297.00
• Suite $35,597.00

35 Nights | Northern Europe | Viking Ocean | Viking Neptune

• Balcony $21,997.00

Ship: World Dream

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Frugal Traveler

Standby Cruising: A New Option for Bargain Seekers

Are you a flexible traveler? Holland America’s standby cruises may be for you. The cost: $49 a day, excluding fees, taxes and extras. The catch: It might be a hair-raising, last-minute scramble.

By Elaine Glusac

Elaine Glusac is the Frugal Traveler columnist, focusing on budget-friendly tips and journeys.

In February, Barb McGowan took a seven-day cruise on Holland America Line, visiting the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, and the Dominican Republic for just $343, or $49 a day, excluding taxes, port fees and extras. By comparison, Holland America currently lists a seven-day Caribbean itinerary in October from about $700.

The catch: She had just 48 hours’ notice.

Ms. McGown, a 64-year-old from Naples, Fla., who runs a restaurant franchise, took one of the line’s new standby cruises , which are aimed at travelers who live near departure ports and intended to fill ship vacancies.

“I look for deals, and this was an especially good experience,” Ms. McGowan said, praising the food and entertainment. “I was impressed enough to put down a deposit on a future cruise.”

A way to keep ships full

Holland America introduced its standby program last August to maximize ship occupancy, knowing that cancellations are inevitable. So far, the rest of the cruise industry has not followed its lead.

“If cancellations are within a week or two of sailing, it’s difficult to resell that space in the open market,” said Dan Rough, the vice president of revenue management at Holland America.

In the same way that airlines oversell seats, cruise lines may compensate for cancellations by overselling staterooms. Filling in with standbys, however, reduces Holland America’s reliance on overselling, which runs the risk of bumping passengers to distant departures or potentially offering generous cash incentives to coax volunteers to cancel.

Though the company does not heavily promote the new practice, it has attracted a following among the thrifty by dangling a bargain rate — $49 a person, whether sharing a cabin or traveling solo, before taxes and fees — on a web page that lists available departure dates to attract flexible travelers. Standbys should expect an inside cabin, according to the company, though ocean-view and veranda cabins have been assigned. (The company declined to say how many standby cabins it has offered.)

“Forty-nine dollars per person, per day is pretty exceptional,” said Colleen McDaniel, the editor of CruiseCritic.com , a website that reviews cruises, noting that the price covers all meals and entertainment. “You can’t find a cheaper rate at a land resort for what’s included.” (In 2023, the average nightly rate for a hotel room in the United States was nearly $156, according to STR, a data analytics firm that monitors the hospitality industry.)

To participate, travelers choose an itinerary from the standby list on the website — current embarkation ports include Boston; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; Montreal; Quebec City; San Diego; Seattle; Vancouver, British Columbia; and Whittier, Alaska — and pay for the trip in advance by calling Holland America or booking through a travel adviser.

There are no refunds for standby cruisers who want to back out. However, if the gamble fails to pay off, and the cruise line cannot offer a cabin to someone on the standby list, it issues a refund.

The company says standby offerings are added on a rolling basis and usually lists itineraries within two to three months of departure. Current offerings include seven-day sailings in Alaska’s Inside Passage from April through September and seven-to-11-day trips cruising the coast of New England and Canada’s Maritime Provinces between May and October.

Proximity is a bonus

Standby cruisers don’t learn of their acceptance or denial until a week to two days before departure, complicating transportation arrangements.

“Last-minute airfare could offset the savings on a cruise,” wrote Crystal Seaton, the owner of Road to Relaxation Travel , a travel agency based in Raleigh, N.C., in an email. Though she has not booked a client on a standby sailing yet, she surmised that it is intended for travelers who can drive to a port.

“We were lucky; we found out Tuesday we were going on a Friday 3 p.m. sailing,” said Sheila Valloney, 66, of Clermont, Fla., who with her husband spent nine days aboard a Holland America ship in the southern Caribbean in February by going standby.

Before being cleared, she reserved a parking spot near the ship dock in Fort Lauderdale, which would have set her back about $6 if she canceled. She also kept their vacation clothes ready to go at the last minute for the three-and-a-half-hour drive to port.

Booking a refundable airline ticket — or at least one that guarantees a credit in loyalty points or cash in the event of cancellation — is one way travelers who must fly can take advantage of the deal.

For her standby sailing, Ms. McGowan drove 90 minutes from her home to the ship in Fort Lauderdale. But her travel companion was coming from Indiana, so when she joined the standby list a few months before the departure date, she booked her friend a Southwest Airlines flight using frequent flier points that would be refunded if the last-minute cruise didn’t come through.

Avoiding extra charges

Once on board, charges for extras like cabin upgrades, Wi-Fi, alcohol and shore excursions can inflate the bill, though the thriftiest travelers try to avoid them.

Ms. McGowan sprang for the $17.50-a-day charge for an upgraded drink package (basic nonalcoholic drinks are included in the cruise) and took one shore excursion, focused on coffee growing, which she deemed a good value at $89.

On their Caribbean cruise, the Valloneys asked around for recommendations for good beaches, where they went to relax on port days, and waited until they were on land to check emails, in order to avoid paying for Wi-Fi on the ship.

“We didn’t miss it at all,” Ms. Valloney said. “For beverages, we would wait until happy hour, when it was buy one, get one free.”

Will other companies follow suit?

To date, no other cruise lines have adopted standby programs.

Princess Cruises said it did not plan to offer cabins on a standby basis, but noted that it already offers last-minute deals , which tend to run about $50 to $60 per passenger per day. For example, a seven-day Alaska sailing from Vancouver to Anchorage departing on May 8 is listed at $399 a person in a double-occupancy cabin.

Several other major cruise lines did not respond to inquiries about potentially adopting standby programs, though operators like Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line also offer last-minute deals on their websites.

“We would be surprised to see many mainstream cruise lines begin to adopt a similar model” to the standby system, wrote Kimberly Coyne, the head of sales and content strategy for Cruiseline.com , a cruise review site, in an email. She said the standby fares might be financially unsustainable for cruise lines and cited the potential that travelers might become too accustomed to late-booking deals.

More ways to save

With the recent surge in cruise bookings, companies are discounting less, said Ms. McDaniel of CruiseCritic.com.

She identified more reliable ways to get a deal compared with going standby, such as booking during “ wave season ,” a sales period that generally runs January through March, or taking a repositioning cruise, in which a ship relocates from one region to another seasonally. A repositioning itinerary might sail in the fall from Alaska to the Caribbean via the Panama Canal.

“It’s not unusual to see a repositioning cruise at less than $75 per night,” Ms. McDaniel, said, noting that other expenses such as an airline itinerary into one city and returning from another may cost more than a standard round-trip ticket.

Repositioning cruises tend to stop at fewer ports and add more shipboard enrichment programs, such as lectures and activities like cake decorating classes and craft spirits tastings.

“For a lot of people the ship is the destination and this is the perfect activity for people who like to be on the ship,” she said.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

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