The Province of North Holland wants to work together with municipalities and operators to create future-proof ferry connections.
Ferries are indispensable for the accessibility of villages, cities, and nature areas in the province. Therefore, the province is investigating how cooperation can help reduce costs, meet new requirements, and ensure the ferry network continues to function well in the future.
A province full of crossings
About 70 ferry connections operate in North Holland in various types and sizes. Large ferries, such as the connection between IJmuiden and Velsen-Noord and the well-known service to Texel, play a role in the daily transport of commuters and students. But there are also dozens of smaller bicycle and foot ferries that are part of recreational routes. On the Pontjesroute around the Alkmaarder- and Uitgeestermeer, you can even find manually operated ferries that you have to pull yourself to the other side.
Daily transport for accessibility
For many residents, a ferry is a fixed part of the journey to work or school. Without the ferries, people would have to detour, and some places would be less or even completely inaccessible. The ferry connections are therefore an important part of the regional mobility network.
Ferries with history
Several ferries have a long history. In 1819, it was already determined that there must be permanent connections at multiple locations along the Noordhollandsch Canal. Many bridges have since been built in many places. Only at ’t Schouw and Anna Paulowna does the province still manage the crossings itself. The well-known Jan Hop ferry has been sailing since 1911 and is thus one of the oldest active ferries in the region. Those cycling the Pontjesroute also pass reclaimed land, mills, and historic defense works such as Fort Spijkerboor.
From wooden ships to electric sailing
Ferries have been increasingly modernized over the years. Wooden boats gave way to steel ships, and manually operated ferries received engines. More and more ferries today sail fully electrically, such as the Molletjesveer near Krommenie–Wormerveer. This makes the crossing quieter, cleaner, and more sustainable while preserving its character.
Working together for the future
Operating costs are rising, and requirements for safety, sustainability, and personnel are becoming stricter. Therefore, the province is looking together with municipalities and operators at how ferry connections can remain future-proof. The province mainly focuses on ferry connections that contribute to regional accessibility. How the cooperation will be shaped will be further investigated in the coming period.