Volendam Cruise Port
Haven Volendam Cruise Pier
Volendam, Netherlands Port
UN/LOCODE NLVOD Port of call
Volendam Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | Netherlands |
| UN/LOCODE | NLVOD |
| Contact | |
| Address | Haven 43, 1131 EP Volendam, Netherlands |
| Port phone | +31 299 363 319 |
| Website | www.marinavolendam.nl |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
The cruise terminal in Volendam is positioned exactly at the harbor edge, meaning you step off your vessel and are within 50 meters (~165 feet) of the main waterfront shops. Located in the Waterland region of North Holland, this destination offers an incredibly compact experience that rewards the early riser and punishes the slow mover. You are only 22 km (14 miles) north of Amsterdam, roughly a 30-minute bus ride away, and just 3 km (1.8 miles) from the historic cheese town of Edam. Most visitors follow a predictable path along the Markermeer embankment, but the real soul of this fishing village lies in the residential maze behind the facade. As one of the most-visited river cruise ports on the Dutch Waterways, Volendam can feel claustrophobic by 11:00 AM when the Amsterdam day-trippers arrive. Be aware that those who head to the nearby island of Marken before 10:00 AM report the highest satisfaction levels. This destination rewards those who seek out authentic culinary traditions like smoked eel, but it punishes anyone expecting a quiet, contemplative stroll on the main strip during the afternoon. You must decide early: will you follow the crowd to the costume photo studios, or will you walk the quiet brick lanes where the locals actually live?
Volendam — Port Overview
History
Volendam did not begin as a village, but as a byproduct of engineering. In 1357, the nearby city of Edam dug a new, shorter canal to the Zuiderzee, rendering the old harbor obsolete. Farmers and fishermen settled the reclaimed land, naming it 'Vollendam'—literally 'the filled dam.' While the rest of the Netherlands largely embraced Protestantism during the Reformation, Volendam remained a staunchly Catholic enclave, a cultural isolation that preserved its unique dialect and the iconic high-pointed lace caps still seen today. By the late 19th century, the village became an unlikely magnet for artists like Paul Signac and Pierre-Auguste Renoir, drawn by the quality of light reflecting off the Markermeer and the traditional attire of the residents. The construction of the Afsluitdijk in 1932 changed everything; the salt-water Zuiderzee became the fresh-water IJsselmeer, and the fishing fleet had to adapt from herring to eel. This transition defined the modern identity you see now. When you look at the bronze statues along the harbor today, you aren't seeing generic decorations; you are seeing tributes to the specific men and women who pulled a living from these waters through centuries of tidal shifts and religious tenacity.
The Verdict
Those who make the most of Volendam tend to be the ones who arrive with a plan to escape the harbor by 10:30 AM. Whether you choose the ferry to Marken or the short bus ride to Edam, getting off the main 'Dijk' is essential to finding the authentic Dutch charm you’ve traveled for. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard. A fully customized Waterland itinerary can be built to ensure you see the quietest corners of North Holland with a guaranteed return-to-ship. Time in port is often considered valuable.
Things to Do & See in Volendam
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Volendam-Marken Express | Tourist Attraction | Haven 39, 1131 EP Volendam | +31 299 363 331 | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (seasonal variations) | markenexpress.nl | EUR €16.50 |
| Cheese Factory Volendam | Tourist Attraction | Haven 91, 1131 EP Volendam | +31 299 399 073 | 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM | cheesefactoryvolendam.com | Free |
| Volendam Museum | Museum | Zeestraat 37, 1131 ZD Volendam | +31 299 369 258 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | volendamsmuseum.nl | EUR €8.00 |
| Experience Volendam | Tourist Attraction | Haven 154, 1131 EW Volendam | +31 299 323 000 | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | experiencevolendam.nl | EUR €11.50 |
| Palingsound Museum | Cultural Site | Slobbeland 13, 1131 AA Volendam | +31 299 363 323 | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | smitbokkum.nl | EUR €3.50 |
Volendam-Marken Express · Tourist Attraction
EUR €16.50This is more than just a ferry; it is the vital link between two distinct Dutch cultures. Volendam is historically Catholic and flamboyant, while Marken is Protestant and austere. The 30-minute crossing over the Markermeer provides the best panoramic view of the Volendam skyline, which is best seen from the water to appreciate the scale of the dam. Many travellers on this route report that the ferry ride is often the highlight of the day. You'll see traditional wooden sailing vessels and the 'Paard van Marken' lighthouse in the distance. Once in Marken, you can visit the clog-making demonstration which, while commercial, uses genuine steam-powered machinery from the early 1900s. The village of Marken itself is built on mounds to resist the tides that once swept the island before the Zuiderzee was dammed. It is a photographer's dream, with green wooden houses and pristine gardens that feel decades removed from the commercial bustle of the Volendam harbor. It delivers a sense of space and maritime history that the mainland harbor simply cannot match.
Haven 39, 1131 EP Volendam ·+31 299 363 331 ·10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (seasonal variations) ·www.markenexpress.nl
Cheese Factory Volendam · Tourist Attraction
FreeWhile many travelers are wary of 'factory' attractions, this site provides a legitimate and efficient education on Dutch dairy heritage. You'll witness a short, high-quality demonstration of the curdling and pressing process that turns North Holland milk into world-famous Edam and Gouda. You will find that the milk used for their premium line still comes from local Waterland cows. After the demonstration, the sampling room offers everything from traditional young Gouda to experimental flavors like lavender or chili. It is the best place in town to learn the difference between 'Jong' (4 weeks), 'Belegen' (4 months), and 'Oud' (10+ months) cheeses. What makes this worth your time is the sheer efficiency; you get the history, the science, and the taste in under 45 minutes, leaving more time for the backstreets. It delivers a clear understanding of why cheese was the primary economic engine of this region for centuries. Even if you don't buy anything, the visual of thousands of yellow wax wheels stacked to the ceiling is a quintessential Dutch moment.
Haven 91, 1131 EP Volendam ·+31 299 399 073 ·9:30 AM – 6:30 PM ·www.cheesefactoryvolendam.com
Volendam Museum · Museum
EUR €8.00This is where the 'real' Volendam is preserved away from the souvenir kiosks. The museum excels at showing how a tiny, isolated community developed such a flamboyant cultural identity. The Cigar Band House is a highlight, a room where a local artist spent decades applying millions of individual cigar labels to create intricate mosaics of world landmarks. It is eccentric, oddly beautiful, and purely Volendam. Beyond the bands, the museum houses authentic 'period rooms'—reconstructions of fisherman's kitchens and bedrooms from the 1850s that illustrate just how small and communal life was on the dam. You will see the original lace caps (hul) and learn how the different embroidery patterns signaled whether a woman was in mourning or celebrating a marriage. The museum provides the essential context that transforms the village from a pretty backdrop into a living historical site. It delivers a deep respect for the resilience of a community that survived on the edge of the sea for seven centuries.
Zeestraat 37, 1131 ZD Volendam ·+31 299 369 258 ·10:00 AM – 5:00 PM ·www.volendamsmuseum.nl
Experience Volendam · Tourist Attraction
EUR €11.50This attraction uses modern technology to solve a common problem: you can't see the 'old' Volendam because it's mostly underwater or rebuilt. Through a high-quality Virtual Reality experience, you are transported back to 1916, just before a massive flood devastated the village. You 'walk' the streets of the past and see the original fishing fleet in the harbor. Travellers have reported that this 30-minute experience can make a subsequent walk through Het Doolhof more meaningful, as it allows visualization of what was once there. It perfectly explains the Dutch obsession with water management and the sheer scale of the 1916 disaster. The production values are surprisingly high, and the historical accuracy is verified by local archivists. It delivers a visceral sense of the danger and drama of living below sea level, something that static museum displays often fail to convey.
Haven 154, 1131 EW Volendam ·+31 299 323 000 ·10:00 AM – 6:00 PM ·www.experiencevolendam.nl
Palingsound Museum · Cultural Site
EUR €3.50Volendam is famous throughout the Netherlands for its unique musical export known as 'Palingsound' (Eel Sound)—a melodic style of pop music that has produced dozens of national stars. This museum, located above the historic Smit-Bokkum eel smokehouse, traces the history of the families who were fishermen by day and musicians by night. It is a fascinating look at how a small village became a national entertainment powerhouse. Even if you don't know the bands (like The Cats or BZN), the displays show a charming side of Dutch pop culture from the 60s and 70s. Below the museum is the real draw: a working smokehouse where you can see (and smell) the traditional method of smoking eel over oak fires. It delivers an authentic look at the two things that make Volendam famous: its music and its fish.
Slobbeland 13, 1131 AA Volendam ·+31 299 363 323 ·10:00 AM – 6:00 PM ·www.smitbokkum.nl
Eating & Drinking in Volendam
Volendam's culinary identity is inseparable from the Markermeer. The regional specialty is 'Paling' (eel), which is traditionally smoked over oak wood. What makes Volendam eel different is the 'Palingsound' tradition—the fishers believe the quality of the fish is improved by the environment of the village. You should also try 'Kibbeling,' which are chunks of cod battered and deep-fried; for the genuine version, look for stalls that fry to order rather than those with heaps of pre-fried fish under heat lamps. Locals drink 'Jonge Jenever,' a clear, malt-based spirit that is the precursor to modern gin, often served in a tulip-shaped glass filled to the very brim. While tourists expect to find 'Dutch' food like hamburgers, the locals are actually eating 'Erwtensoep' (thick pea soup) in the cooler months or 'Broodje Haring' (raw herring in a bun) year-round. You can find the best herring at the small stall next to the VVV office—locals stand there to eat it with onions and pickles, holding the fish by the tail.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| De Lunch | Haven 96, 1131 EV Volendam | +31 299 363 430 | 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM | delunch.nl | €20–€35 (~$23–$40 USD) |
| Lotje aan de Haven | Haven 148, 1131 EW Volendam | +31 299 323 350 | 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM | lotjeaandehaven.nl | €15–€25 (~$17–$29 USD) |
| Smit-Bokkum | Slobbeland 13, 1131 AA Volendam | +31 299 363 323 | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM | smitbokkum.nl | €4–€8 (~$4.50–$9.00 USD) per drink |
De Lunch
€20–€35 (~$23–$40 USD)Order the smoked eel on thick-cut brown bread. It is the definitive Volendam experience. The eel is rich, oily, and perfectly balanced by the smoky oak finish. If eel is too adventurous, their kibbeling is made from fresh cod, not frozen blocks. The service is efficient, which is vital for cruise passengers on a schedule. One honest limitation: the outdoor terrace can be very loud due to the passing crowds on De Dijk.
Haven 96, 1131 EV Volendam ·+31 299 363 430 ·10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Lotje aan de Haven
€15–€25 (~$17–$29 USD)This is the place for a 'Koffie met Gebak' (coffee and cake) or a full Dutch lunch. Their bitterballen are some of the best in town—crunchy on the outside and velvety inside. It is located at the quieter end of the harbor, providing a slightly more peaceful environment. The pancake selection is extensive and authentic. Note that they can get very busy for dinner, so lunch is the better time for a quick visit.
Haven 148, 1131 EW Volendam ·+31 299 323 350 ·9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Smit-Bokkum
€4–€8 (~$4.50–$9.00 USD) per drinkThis is where you go for a 'Kopje koffie' or a glass of Jenever to toast your day. It is the most authentic building in the village, having been a smokehouse since 1856. Locals come here to escape the harbor crowds. Order a Jenever neat and sip it like the Dutch do while watching the smoke rise from the kilns out back. It’s the perfect end-of-day stop before boarding your ship.
Slobbeland 13, 1131 AA Volendam ·+31 299 363 323 ·10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Getting There & Around
Once you disembark in Volendam, your primary mode of transport is your own two feet. The historic core is an entirely pedestrianized zone where taxis and buses are prohibited. If you wish to visit the neighboring village of Edam, the EBS Bus 316 is recommended which runs every 15 minutes from the Julianaweg stop; a 'Busticket' can be purchased via contactless credit card on board for roughly €5.00 (~$5.75 USD). Alternatively, many of travelers prefer to rent a bicycle from 'Volendam Rent-a-Bike' on Haven 45. The path to Edam is a flat, 15-minute ride through the polders. Do not rely on Uber here; drivers are rarely in the vicinity and will often cancel if they have to drive from Amsterdam. Navigation is simple: keep the water on your right to head north toward Edam, or keep it on your left to find the southern parking areas. Most visitors miss the fact that the 'Dijk' is actually a functional flood barrier; look for the heavy steel doors at the alley entrances that can be closed during high North Sea surges.
Itineraries & Sample Walks
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4-Hour Shore Excursion in Volendam
Het Doolhof (The Maze)
9:00 AM (60 min)
Wander through the oldest part of the village. The name literally means 'The Maze,' and it is easy to see why. The houses here have no front gardens because they were built on the limited land of the dam itself. Look for the 'hidden' doorways that lead to tiny communal courtyards.
- 100-meter walk from the cruise pier. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Visit the St. Vincentius Church here; most people stay on the harbor and miss its impressive 19th-century woodcarvings.
Cheese Factory Volendam
10:15 AM (45 min)
A demonstration of how Gouda and Edam cheeses are made. While it is a commercial site, the basement museum shows genuine 19th-century equipment. You can sample over 20 varieties of cheese here.
- 3-minute walk back to the waterfront. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Skip the pre-packaged gift boxes at the entrance; walk to the back to find the aged 'Oude Kaas' which has much better flavor and travels well.
Volendam Museum
11:15 AM (75 min)
Home to the famous 'Cigar Band House,' where an artist used 11 million cigar bands to create mosaics. It also houses authentic 19th-century room interiors and a large collection of traditional costumes.
- 5-minute walk from the waterfront.
- Entry: €8.00 ($9.20)
- The museum contains the only surviving examples of certain regional lace patterns that are no longer made.
Lunch Recommendation
De Lunch
While many harbor spots use frozen fish, De Lunch sources their eel from the local Smit-Bokkum smokery daily. It offers the best harbor views without the 'tourist menu' feel.
Order: Gerookte Paling (Smoked Eel), Kibbeling (Fried Cod Bites)
Haven 96, 1131 EV Volendam
Cost: €25.00 (~$29.00 USD)
8-Hour Full Day Experience in Volendam
Volendam-Marken Express
9:00 AM (150 min)
Take the ferry to the former island of Marken. The 30-minute crossing offers great views of the Markermeer. Marken is even more quiet than Volendam, with unique houses built on mounds (werven) to protect from flooding.
- Directly adjacent to cruise pier. (€16.50 (~$19.00 USD) return)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Sit on the upper deck for the crossing, but head to the gangway 5 minutes before docking to beat the tour groups to the Marken clog factory.
Lunch at De Lunch
12:00 PM (75 min)
A local institution on the harbor.
- 3-minute walk from the ferry return.
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Order the smoked eel on toast.
Het Doolhof Exploration
1:30 PM (60 min)
Deep dive into the backstreets.
- 2-minute walk.
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Find the Dr. C.J.K. van Aalststeegh, one of the narrowest streets in the country.
Bus to Edam
2:45 PM (120 min)
Visit the quieter, more sophisticated neighbor. Walk across the Kwakelbrug, a rare wooden drawbridge.
- Bus 316 from Julianaweg. (€5.00 (~$5.75 USD))
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Head to the Grote Kerk; the stained glass is some of the finest in the Netherlands.
Getting back to the ship
The latest safe time to leave the center of Volendam for a 5:00 PM all-aboard is 4:45 PM, as the walk is less than 5 minutes. However, if you are in Edam, you must be at the Edam Bus Station by 4:00 PM at the latest to account for the 15-minute bus ride and potential traffic. A taxi from Edam to the Volendam pier costs approximately €15 (~$17.00 USD) and takes 10 minutes. If you are running late, contact the port authority at +31 299 363 319. River cruise ships rarely hold for independent passengers due to strict lock schedules on the Dutch canals. If you miss the ship, you will likely need to take a train or taxi to the next port (often Hoorn or Amsterdam), which can cost €60–€100 (~$70–$115 USD).
Weather & Best Time to Visit Volendam
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: March through October
Temperatures range from 10°C to 22°C (50°F to 72°F). Humidity is high, and wind off the Markermeer is a constant factor.
What to wear: Layers are non-negotiable. Even on sunny days, the breeze off the water can be biting. A windproof outer shell and comfortable walking shoes with non-slip soles for the brick streets are recommended. Dutch weather is famously fickle; a small travel umbrella or hooded jacket is essential. Avoid heels, as the gaps between bricks in the older sections can catch them easily.
Weather risks: High winds can occasionally cause minor delays for the Marken ferry, though river cruise ships are rarely affected.
Spring (April) is significantly drier but cooler than the humid summer months.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (March–May) | Cool and frequently windy with intermittent light rain. Average temperatures 8°C–15°C (46°F–59°F). | The wooden planks on the ferry piers and the brick cobblestones of Het Doolhof become slick when damp. | De Dijk promenade and the Marken ferry boarding ramps. | Wear shoes with excellent rubber grip. Avoid leather soles entirely. This is the best time for the nearby tulip fields but requires windproof layers. |
| Summer (June–August) | Mild to warm, often humid. Temperatures 18°C–23°C (64°F–73°F). High solar exposure on the harbor. | Severe overcrowding on De Dijk creates trip hazards; dehydration risk on the unshaded Marken ferry deck. | The main harbor thoroughfare and the top deck of the Markermeer excursion boats. | Seek shade in the Het Doolhof alleys between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM. Carry water as prices on the promenade are inflated. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
Locals in Volendam greet each other with a nod and a 'Hoi' or 'Goedendag.' As a visitor, a simple 'Hoi' is perfectly acceptable. Unlike the more liberal Amsterdam, Volendam remains a more traditional and socially conservative community. When dining, wait for all guests to be served before starting, and do not expect a 'check' to be brought to your table automatically—you must signal the waiter or pay at the counter. Photography is generally welcomed on the harbor, but avoid taking photos of residents in the residential Het Doolhof without a polite nod of permission; these are private homes, not museum exhibits. Tipping is not mandatory but 'rounding up' to the nearest €5 or leaving 5–10% for excellent service is the norm. A common misunderstanding involves the 'Dutch directness'; if a shopkeeper tells you 'No' or corrects your behavior, it is not meant to be rude—it is simply their straightforward way of communicating. Also, be aware that many locals still attend church on Sunday mornings; keep noise levels low in Het Doolhof during these times.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Staying on the harbor for the entire 4-hour port call. |
Buying 'tourist cheese' at the first shop you see. |
Taking the Marken ferry after 1:00 PM. |
Trying to see Volendam, Edam, and Zaanse Schans in one day independently. |
Practical tips
The local currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are accepted in all shops and restaurants, but 'Pin' (Dutch debit) is preferred; always carry at least €20 in cash for small fish stalls or public restroom fees. Tipping is roughly 5–10% for a sit-down lunch. Five words to earn goodwill: 'Dank u' (Thank you), 'Alstublieft' (Please/Here you go), 'Lekker' (Delicious—use this for the eel!), 'Hoi' (Hi), and 'Proost' (Cheers). The most common scam is the 'overpriced costume photo extra'—confirm the price for the digital file and the physical print before the session begins. Pickpockets are rare but can operate on the Marken ferry when it is crowded; keep bags in front of you. For religious sites like St. Vincentius, there is no strict dress code, but removing hats and speaking softly is expected. The best time to visit the Cheese Factory is at 9:30 AM sharp to avoid the 11:00 AM rush of tour buses from Amsterdam.
Cruise Lines Visiting Volendam
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FAQ — Volendam
Can I walk from Volendam to Edam?
Yes, there is a very scenic, flat walking path along the top of the dike that connects the two villages. The distance is 3 km (1.8 miles) and takes approximately 45 minutes at a steady pace. It is a paved path suitable for walkers, but there is very little shade, so it can be taxing on hot summer days. Most Waterways Cruise clients find that a one-way walk is enjoyable, followed by a quick €5.00 (~$5.75 USD) bus ride back to Volendam from the Edam bus station. If you have limited mobility, the bus or a 10-minute taxi ride instead are recommended.
Is the Volendam costume photo worth the money?
For most travelers, yes, but only if you go early. A session typically costs €15–€25 (~$17–$29 USD) depending on the number of people and prints. It takes about 20 minutes from dressing to the final photo. 'Foto de Boer' on Haven 82 is recommended because they have the widest range of authentic sizes and accessories. Be aware that the studios become incredibly hot and crowded after 11:00 AM. If you are traveling as a couple, it’s a unique milestone souvenir you won’t find elsewhere in the world. Just ensure you ask for the digital copy to be emailed to you for an extra €5.00 (~$5.75 USD).
Is there a beach in Volendam where I can swim?
There is a small designated swimming area at Slobbeland, which is a 10-minute walk south of the cruise pier. It features a grassy area and a small sandy patch leading into the Markermeer. However, the water is shallow and often contains reeds. It is mostly used by local children and is not a 'resort-style' beach. If you are looking for a true North Sea beach experience, you would need to travel to Bloemendaal or Zandvoort, which are over 60 minutes away by car and not realistic for a standard port call.
How do I pay for the bus to Amsterdam or Edam?
The easiest way is 'OV-pay.' You simply tap your contactless credit card or smartphone (Apple/Google Pay) on the reader when you enter the bus and tap again when you exit. The system automatically calculates the correct fare, which is approximately €5.00 (~$5.75 USD) to Edam or €6.50 (~$7.50 USD) to Amsterdam. You no longer need a physical transport card (OV-chipkaart) or paper tickets. Just ensure every person in your party has their own card or device to tap, as you cannot pay for multiple people with one card.
What is the 'Palingsound' everyone mentions?
Palingsound, or 'Eel Sound,' is a specific genre of Dutch pop music that originated in Volendam in the 1960s. It’s characterized by melodic, easy-listening harmonies and often focuses on themes of seafaring or romance. Famous bands like BZN and The Cats are the kings of this genre. You will hear it playing in many harbor cafes. For a deeper look, the Palingsound Museum (entry €3.50, ~$4.00 USD) above the Smit-Bokkum smokehouse offers a fun, if slightly kitschy, overview of these local legends and their gold records.
Can I bring Volendam cheese back to the United States?
Generally, yes. Vacuum-sealed hard and semi-hard cheeses like Gouda and Edam are permitted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection as long as they do not contain meat. You must declare them on your customs form. Visitors should buy the 'Black Label' aged Gouda at the Cheese Factory Volendam (approx. €20.00, ~$23.00 USD) because its low moisture content makes it very stable for travel. Avoid soft, liquid cheeses or anything not professionally vacuum-sealed, as these are more likely to be confiscated or spoil in transit.
Is the water in the Markermeer safe for drinking?
The water in the Markermeer itself is not potable, but the tap water in Volendam is among the cleanest in the world and perfectly safe to drink. In fact, most locals find the idea of buying bottled water unnecessary and environmentally wasteful. You can fill your reusable water bottle at your ship or at the public fountain in Julianaweg park. If you prefer bottled water, a 500ml bottle in a harbor shop will cost about €2.50 (~$3.00 USD), while the local Spar supermarket behind the harbor sells it for under €1.00 (~$1.15 USD).
Are shops in Volendam open on Sundays?
Yes, unlike many other Dutch towns, the shops, museums, and restaurants in the Volendam harbor area remain open 7 days a week, including Sundays. This is because Volendam is a primary tourist destination. Most shops open at 10:00 AM and close at 6:00 PM. The only exception is the local supermarket and some residential services in the backstreets, which may have limited hours. Sunday morning is also a busy time for the local churches, so expect a different, more formal atmosphere in the Het Doolhof neighborhood.
Is there an elevator on the Marken ferry?
The Volendam-Marken Express ferry does not have a traditional elevator, but the main deck is completely level and easily accessible via a wide ramp. All the essential facilities, including the bar and restrooms, are located on this main level. If you wish to go to the upper sun deck, there are stairs. Most passengers with mobility issues find the main deck perfectly comfortable as it has large windows and comfortable seating. The staff are also very helpful with boarding wheelchairs and walkers.
Where is the best place to see a windmill near Volendam?
There are no large, historic windmills in the center of Volendam. The nearest one is the 'De Kathammer' windmill, located just south of the village on the way to Monnickendam (a 5-minute taxi or 30-minute walk). However, if you want the classic 'field of windmills' experience, you must visit Zaanse Schans. This is 25 km (15 miles) away and requires a pre-booked shore excursion or a 40-minute taxi ride costing roughly €60.00 (~$69.00 USD) each way. Do not try to do this by bus if your port call is less than 6 hours.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated October 12, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.