When Eurostar launched its direct service to Rotterdam and Amsterdam in 2018, there was one problem – whilst it could operate services to these destinations, it could not operate the return journey back to London due to immigration purposes.
Eurostar trains at London St Pancras – Image, Economy Class and Beyond
Well, it seems that the works to complete the new terminals are nearing completion. These terminals have areas for the juxtaposed borders that are used for Eurostar Services.
The direct services from Amsterdam start in the 30th April, whilst services from Rotterdam will start a little later from the 18th May 2020.
Direct tickets go on sale on the 11 February.
That time saving alone will shave off an hour off the current method of travelling between Amsterdam and London, requiring taking a Thalys to Brussels Midi, and clearing immigration controls there, then boarding a Eurostar train onto London St Pancras.
The upshot is that you the journeys between the UK and The Netherlands will be a one-Seat ride, requiring no changes, switching to other train services and so on in both directions. Average journey times will take 4 hours to complete the trip one way.
Building the operation
Eurostar will operate two direct return services a day to start, with the train operator wanting to ramp up to four services a day. It also wants to increase this to five times a day in 2021
A pleasant way across the channel… without the need for tedious airport visits.
If you are averse to spending time in the airport, with crushed crowds, busy everything – I can recommend Eurostar as an alternative… when it runs on time. I have tried out the London to Amsterdam service, and even in the normal Standard (economy) seating, it’s a pleasant ride… providing your train isn’t delayed.
Eurostar standard seating
Of course, if you want more comfort, Eurostar offers business class and Standard Premier offerings – which can be rather good value if you shop in advance. Have a look at my review between London and Brussels.
Standard Premier Seating.
For those who fancy a bit of comfort at 186mph, whilst sitting down and watching the countryside go by – without the need to go out of a city to an airport – it’s a tempting option.
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