Ferries to Borkum

Borkum can be reached by ferry both from the German mainland (Emden, Lower Saxony) and from the Netherlands (Eemshaven). On this page you will find an overview of all ferry routes to Borkum.

Routes Timetable

Route map ferry Borkum

The ferry services are operated by the AG EMS shipping company. The journey time with the car ferry from Emden is around 2 hours 10 minutes, from Eemshaven only around 50 minutes (due to the shorter distance). There is also a fast ferry (catamaran) from Emden, which reaches Borkum in around 60 minutes. After arriving on Borkum, the island railroad transports passengers from the port to the center of the island.

Ferries to Borkum

If you want to visit the largest of the East Frisian Islands, there are several ways to cross over: A ferry and a catamaran run from the outer harbor in Emden and there is also a regular ferry connection to Borkum from Eemshaven in the Netherlands.

Ferry from Emden

The classic AG Ems car ferry is the most traditional connection to the island. It departs from Emden's outer harbor and takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes for the crossing. There is space on board for up to 1,200 passengers and around 60 vehicles. The ferry operates all year round, although the departure times depend on the tide and can change daily.

Emden - Borkum

AG EMS
2 hours 10 minutes 2 Sailings/Day
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Special features:

  • Carriage of motor vehicles possible
  • Spacious indoor and outdoor areas
  • On-board restaurant and cafeteria
  • Tide-dependent travel times

Catamaran from Emden

For passengers without a vehicle, the fast catamaran is an option, which covers the distance in just about an hour. The modern high-speed vessel is particularly popular with day trippers and holidaymakers who want to leave their car on the mainland.

Special features:

  • Significantly shorter journey time
  • For passengers only (no vehicle transport)
  • Modern comfort
  • Weather-dependent operation

Ferry from Eemshaven

An alternative route is offered by the connection from Eemshaven in the Netherlands. This ferry is particularly interesting for holidaymakers from the southern Netherlands or southern Germany, as it can enable a shorter journey. The crossing takes around 50 minutes.

Eemshaven - Borkum

AG EMS
50 minutes 4 Sailings/Day
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Special features:

  • Shortest crossing time
  • Carriage of vehicles possible
  • Alternative arrival route
  • Fixed travel times independent of the tides