9:55 pm - February 24, 2025
After an eight-month hiatus, Eurostar has officially resumed its direct train services between Amsterdam and London, marking a major milestone for travelers and the rail industry alike. The pause in services, which began in June, was necessary to accommodate the construction of a brand-new terminal in Amsterdam, a development that has significantly enhanced the efficiency and capacity of the route. Starting Monday, passengers can once again board a train at Amsterdam Centraal station and travel directly to London St Pancras, a journey that takes just three hours and 52 minutes. This resumption not only restores a convenient travel option for thousands of commuters and tourists but also signals a step forward in Eurostar’s efforts to expand its network and improve its services across Europe.
During the disruption, passengers traveling from Amsterdam to London had to take a detour via Brussels, where they would go through border checks before transferring to a Eurostar train. While this workaround kept the route operational, it undoubtedly added time, hassle, and inconvenience for travelers. The new terminal in Amsterdam eliminates the need for this additional leg of the journey, streamlining the process and making the trip more seamless than ever. The upgraded facilities at the Amsterdam station provide more space for passengers and allow Eurostar to increase its service frequency. Currently, the company operates three daily return trips on weekdays and Sundays, and two on Saturdays. These numbers are set to grow, with plans to expand to five daily return services by 2026, further cementing the route’s importance in Eurostar’s network.
One of the most notable improvements brought by the new terminal is the increased capacity of the trains. Each Eurostar train on this route can now carry up to 400 passengers, a significant jump from the previous maximum of 360. This number is expected to rise to 650 by September, ensuring that even more travelers can benefit from the direct service. This expansion not only reflects the growing demand for convenient rail travel between the Netherlands and the UK but also highlights Eurostar’s commitment to meeting the needs of its customers. Gwendoline Cazenave, Eurostar’s chief executive, expressed her delight at the resumption of direct services, emphasizing that these journeys are “more than just a train ride.” In her words, they represent “a seamless connection between two vibrant capitals, offering our customers an efficient, comfortable, and sustainable way to travel.”
The introduction of the state-of-the-art terminal in Amsterdam is a testament to Eurostar’s dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction. According to Cazenave, the new facility reinforces the company’s mission to provide a travel experience that is not only smooth and hassle-free but also environmentally friendly. By offering a direct and efficient service, Eurostar is encouraging more people to choose rail travel over less sustainable options, such as flying. This shift aligns with the broader European goal of reducing carbon emissions and promoting greener transportation methods. As Eurostar continues to grow its network, it aims to set new standards for connectivity and sustainability across the continent.
The resumption of direct services has also been welcomed by UK Migration Minister Seema Malhotra, who highlighted the importance of maintaining robust border security. With UK Border Force officers stationed in the Netherlands, passengers can expect a smooth and secure journey. Malhotra expressed her pleasure at the reintroduction of the direct route, noting that it underscores the strong ties between the two nations. The improved connectivity is expected to boost tourism, business travel, and cultural exchanges, further strengthening the relationship between the Netherlands and the UK.
Looking ahead, the launch of the new terminal and the resumption of direct services are just the first steps in Eurostar’s broader strategy to enhance its offerings. The company has ambitious plans to expand its network and increase its capacity on other routes, ensuring that more people across Europe can enjoy the convenience and comfort of its services. By focusing on sustainability, efficiency, and customer experience, Eurostar is positioning itself as a leader in the rail travel industry, setting the stage for a future where seamless, high-speed train journeys become the norm for travelers across the continent.