seal tour texel

THE BEST SEAL TRIPS FROM TEXEL

A boat trip with De Vrijheid is a real experience! Feel the wind in your hair, breathe the salty air, and our skipper will take you to a unique sandbank where you can spot seals. The trip takes 1.5 hours and along the way you will enjoy the beautiful stories of our skipper and the vastness of the Wadden Sea.

> Discover our tours

BRUUZER TEXEL

Looking for a trip with more adventure and speed? Then take a look at our partner Bruuzer Texel: a fast powerboat for the best Wad experiences on Texel.

> Discover Bruuzer

Order your tickets

There are daily departures between March and November, depending on the weather. We also sail in the winter months, often a few trips per week. We sail across the Wadden Sea towards the Razende Bol, a unique sandbank where hundreds of seals and birds live.

You can reserve tickets via our website.

More information or make a reservation by telephone.

Watching seals

A trip with De Vrijheid is a real experience. We sail with small groups, which makes the experience intense and you always have a spot to get a good look at the seals.

A seal tour with De Vrijheid is

• Spotting seals up close
• Unique experience with a small group
• Discover the most beautiful places in the Wadden Sea

• Meets all safety requirements, is comfortable, and has a toilet.
• Has a heated cabin. Nice in the winter!
• Has plenty of comfortable seating indoors and outdoors

Our skippers

• They were born and raised on Texel and have a lot of experience.
• They know the ever-changing Wadden area like the back of their hand and always know where to find the best spots.
• Tell fun facts and facts about the area.

Looking for a spectacular trip! Then book your tickets for Bruuzer Wadexperience.

> To Bruuzer

• Temperature 21°C
• Wind force 3 ZW

• Frequently Asked Questions

Spotting seals on Texel

During the wad-experience with Bruuzer there is a good chance that you will also spot seals! Have you always wanted to see seals in their natural environment? Then you should definitely join our spectacular Wadden Sea experience, a unique seal tour on Texel.

Are you going seal spotting?

We sail to the Razende Bol, where the seals are lazing or sunbathing on the dry sandbank. Sometimes they even swim along while sailing! Will you join Bruuzer to watch seals on Texel?

Spectacular seal tour on Texel

Bruuzer offers a unique seal tour on Texel with the Wadden Sea experience . Our experienced skipper knows the Wadden Sea very well and knows exactly where the best places to spot seals are. At the same time you will experience a unique experience thanks to our powerboat!

What you can expect

Unique Wad experience

Suitable for young and old

The tour takes 60 minutes

A life jacket for everyone

Certified skipper

An experienced captain

Atmosphere impression Bruuzer powerboat

Will you soon enjoy a spectacular boat trip while you can view seals in the wild up close?

THE RIGHT BOAT FOR YOU

Ready for a fast-paced water adventure? We have the perfect boat for you! Discover the Bruuzer and Breker with which we sail every day to offer you an unforgettable experience on the Texel mudflats.

What others say

Very cool to cross the sea at this speed. Saw many seals. Good materials for sailing in all weather conditions.

Henkjan Metz

Super experience on the water, we had calm seas so less intense sailing, but the driver of the boat looked for the waves to do a little stunt. Seals came very close.

Nado Gangemi

Yesterday we sailed on the Bruuzer with our 2 daughters (9 and 10 years old). We think it’s very cool! Spotted several seals and sailed quickly over the waves. A waterproof suit and life jacket were also provided. Captain was very friendly.

Patrick Donkersloot

Enjoyed this boat trip to the Razende Bol with a beautiful fast boat. Enthusiastic captain who has talked a lot about the dynamics of the ever-changing Razende Sphere. Can see many seals. Well worth the money for the cruise!

Highly recommended if you are on Texel. Not expensive and well worth the money. Hour-long cruise including spotting seals and the harbor of Den Helder. A spectacular experience

At high speed from Oudeschild towards Den Helder and then sail around the Razende Bol, where you will see seals. 2 experiences in 1, at high speed over the Wadden Sea and North Sea and seeing seals, definitely recommended!!

Richard Tromp

Ready for adventure.

Boek nu jouw groepsuitje op Texel!

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Bedrijfsnaam

E-mailadres*

Telefoonnummer

Vraag of opmerking*

Rates Speedboot seal Tours Texel

Rates & reservations.

An amazing seal tour where we speed over the tidal flats to the seals always takes an hour and costs €40 per person. Since the speedboat only accommodates 12 people, it’s important to reserve in advance. We recommend purchasing your tickets directly on our website to secure your spot on board.

If you prefer to reserve by phone, that’s also possible. For reservations, we ask everyone to pick up the tickets at the counter at least half an hour before the departure. Both card and cash payments are possible at our counter. Buy your tickets online directly or reserve by phone at 0031 (0) 620920594 .

Please note: children from the age of six or up are welcome. Dogs are not allowed on the Sop-Speedy.

Frequently asked questions

Below you will find the most frequently asked questions about rates and booking our seal watching speedboat tours on Texel. If your question is not listed, please contact us .

You can reserve your tickets for available boat trips directly through the boat trips page and pay instantly using iDeal, Bancontact, Sofort Banking, or Credit Card.

If you prefer to reserve by phone, you can contact us at 003120920594 .

A one-hour seal watching tour with us always costs €40 per person.

Children aged 6 and older can join on the Sop Speedy.

Would you like a boat trip suitable for younger children? Check out other boat trips on zeehondentexel.nl .

We sail out with a minimum of 8 people.

A maximum of 12 people can go on the ship.If you want to sail with more people, please contact us.

 Dogs are not allowed.

If you would like to bring your dog, please check for other boat trips on zeehondentexel.nl .

We depart daily at these times: 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM

For a clear overview, you can check out What to Do on Texel: A List of the Best outings on Texel , where we provide a clear overview of the best things to do on Texel. Looking for more exciting outings?

Then check out the popular events and festivals on Texel .

What others are saying

For 2 years now, we have been booking boat trips with Sop Speedy: what an experience! Truly a tip! The skippers are extremely funny, friendly, and share a lot of information. This is becoming a tradition. Thanks for the enjoyable trips!

via Google Reviews

We took the speedboat. I recommend taking the speedboat if you want extra fun during the trip. With extra wind or waves, it's worth the additional cost.

We enjoyed a fantastic and fast tour with a detailed and very close view of the seal bank. The captain was very entertaining and friendly, and he was happy to answer all our questions. The price is absolutely justified. Make sure to book by phone, it's also very easy to do in German.

Seals spotting

Seals aren't very difficult to find around Texel . Its beautiful nature, the clean water, space and tranquility certainly has a positive impact on these animals, and it makes them thrive. Seals look cute and seem to live the ideal life. They lounge a lot on the beach and soak up the sun. Furthermore, they swim occasionally and eat fresh delicious fish.

Off the coast of live fairly large populations. The number of seals around the Wadden islands is growing rapidly. Exact numbers aren't know of course because they swim around a lot. But once they feel comfortable somewhere they keep coming back to that area. And they're everywhere. Most of them around Terschelling where they comfortably lie on the sandbanks.

The Dutch waters are home to two kinds of seals; the regular and the gray one. The regular seal is the smallest of the two, the males can grow up to two meters. The animals usually have dark spots on their gray, dark brown or black pelt. The head is small in proportion to their bodies. The nostrils have a V-shape. The gray seal is considerably larger and can be up to three meters long. They distinguish themselves by their straight noses and separated nostrils. Their pelt is usually gray, but it can also be dark brown and even black.

The seals lounge in groups, but live a solitary life. A mother cares only briefly for her young, about four weeks. In danger, she saves herself and not her young. If she loses her young for whatever reason she won't look for it. Those pups are sometimes found on time and brought to a seal sanctuarie.

Seals feel quite comfortable at a reasonable distance from humans. Some seals you come across in the middle of the sea swim curiously along with you. On the sandbanks they gather in large groups. Here they rest in the sun and raising their young. Therefore it is essential that they're not disturbed. Seals prefer to lie on sandbanks where they feel safe. Those are usually shallow plates, and then they lie on the steep sides. That way, they can quickly go into the water when they sense danger. In summer time occasionally boaters decide to go to a sandbank with seals. Then they disappear in an instant, and it's also prohibited.

For the general public the seals are one of the the trademarks of the Wadden Sea . The Wadden Sea is the perfect environment for seals: the exposed sandbanks during low tide form the ideal location to rest or raise their young. Especially on the sandbanks around Terschelling various large groups of seals are present. It's possible for visitors to the Wadden Sea are to catch a glimpse of the seals in their natural habitat. The best moments you can spot the seals are:

• During a special seal boat trip.
• From the ferry on the way to a Wadden Sea island
• During a mudflat hike or sailing trip; However, keep your distance, because the animals flee if you get too close.
• From the beach. Between two hours before low tide until an hour after seals are usually sunbathing on a sandbank somewhere. It's best to see them with binoculars or a photo camera with a good zoom option. That way you can also see the seals from the beach.

Discover the Seals at Noorderhaaks

Located near Texel is the uninhabited island Noorderhaaks , also known as ' De Razende Bol '. This beautiful piece of nature is home to a large colony of seals, which can almost always be found here. A visit to De Razende Bol offers a unique opportunity to observe these impressive animals in their natural environment.

Noorderhaaks

Round trips.

For special seal boat cruises you can contact:

TX44 Wadden Cruise

Step aboard the TX44 Wadden Cruise for an unforgettable tour from the harbour of Oudeschild on the beautiful island of Texel . Enjoy a unique experience as the captain tells you about the Wadden Sea area. What can you expect on a tour with the TX44 ?; ...

Tidal flat cruises with the TX-10 Emmie

Embark on an adventurous journey on the TX-10 ‘Emmie’ from the port of Oudeschild across the Wadden Sea and experience the unique adventure of mudflat walking and mudflat hiking . This excursion offers an unforgettable experience for all ages, allowing you to witness the wonders of the ...

Zeehondentocht met de Anna

Op zoek naar een bijzondere vaartocht op de Waddenzee? Het schip Anna wacht op je in de haven van Oudeschild . De boot vaart langs de kust van Texel , waar vaak één van Texels favoriete inwoners te vinden zijn: zeehonden ! Wat kun je verwachten tijdens de Zeehondentocht met de ...

Het Sop Seal Tours

Would you like to spot seals on the Wadden Sea? Het Sop Seal Tours departs daily from the harbor of Oudeschild on the beautiful island of Texel and offers you a unique experience at sea. What can you expect at Het Sop ?; - Adventurous ...

15 Amazing Things to Do on Texel (Netherlands)

Texel is the largest of the Wadden Islands in the North Sea – a chain of islands which string the coast of northern Netherlands and Germany.

With its pristine white sandy beaches and nature reserves, Texel (pronounced Tessel) is a popular weekend and holiday spot for both Dutch and Germans – although relatively unknown to other international tourists.

Texel is 25km long and 9km wide and is located only 3km north from the Dutch mainland. Texel is well known for sheep farming and is renowned for the quality of its lamb.

How to reach Texel

Texel is easily accessible from the Dutch mainland by a ferry service .

TESO operates regular ferries between Den Helder and Texel (‘t Horntje). TESO ( Koninklijke N.V. Texels Eigen Stoomboot Onderneming ) is a private non-profit company and has been operating since 1907.

The large ferries can take up to 1,750 passengers and 300 cars – there are cafe facilities on board. The trip across the Marsdiep only takes about 20 minutes.

TESO sails daily with hourly departures (on the half-hour from Den Helder, on the hour from Texel). The first boat leaves Den Helder for Texel at 0630 (Sundays 0730), the last boat of the day leaves at 2130. On busy days the ferry can run every 30 minutes.

Foot passengers on the ferry pay €2.50 whilst those with bicycles pay €5. A standard vehicle (including passengers) costs €26 (for outward travel on Tue-Thu) or €39 (Fri-Mon). All tickets are return tickets. There is no need to book a particular departure, just turn up at the terminal and wait for the next ferry. Prices are valid for 2023.

Amsterdam-Den Helder travel

You can travel Amsterdam to Den Helder as follows:

By train – Intercity trains from NS (Dutch Railways) operate 2x hourly and the journey time takes about 1 hour 17 minutes. Tickets can be purchased at the station, or at the official NS (Dutch Railways) site here

The Den Helder ferry terminal is about 1km from Den Helder train station – this is served by Connexxion bus 33 or you can walk the journey in about 15 minutes.

By car – Travelling by car to Texel is very popular as it gives a lot of freedom and convenience exploring the island. It takes about 1 hour to reach Den Helder from Amsterdam. You can book a rental car with Discover Cars here which checks all the main rental firms.

Note, there is paid parking in Texel (€2.50 per hour) from 0800-2000. It is possible to purchase a digital parking card called the Texel e-vignette which offers unlimited parking at all official parking spots. It costs €10 per day, €20 per week (8 days) or €30 for the whole year.

By bike – Some people cycle to the Den Helder ferry terminal and take their bikes across on the ferry. Cycling is a great way to get around Texel, although the winds can be very strong and hamper your efforts!

Day tour of Texel

If you lack the time to stay on Texel there is an opportunity to do a full-day tour around the island from Amsterdam. Outfit Dutch Tours offers a small group island tour which includes pick-up from Amsterdam, transport (including ferry) to Texel and a visit to beaches, villages and the national park. Lunch is included. Book your Texel full-day tour here

Getting around Texel

The TexelHopper minibus service can take you to/from any one of the 130 pick-up points spread throughout the island. A single ticket is €3.05, day ticket €7.70 and week ticket €38.50. Rides need to be booked online or by phone.

Bus line 28 runs between the Texel ferry terminal and the main towns of Den Burg and De Koog.

Where to stay on Texel

Texel has a wealth of accommodation options from hotels and B&Bs to camping and bungalow parks. You can check availability of all accommodation at the VVV Texel site here

The main town on the island is Den Burg , which is located centrally. Here you will find the town hall and reasonable shopping facilities including 4 supermarkets.

De Koog is a town located near the west coast and has a selection of cafe terraces, restaurants and a few nightclubs. De Cocksdorp is a village at the north of the island whilst Den Hoorn is a picturesque village in the south.

We have stayed at the Duinpark De Robbenjager which has a fantastic location at the very north of the island near the lighthouse and is in walking distance of great beaches. The chalets are stylish and very comfortable with free WiFi. Restaurant RJ is a classy establishment on site.

Tip: If you can, book chalet 20 or 33 which have excellent locations and nice spacious garden areas. These were recommended by a member of staff and we have stayed in both.

For families we highly recommend Camping Loodsmansduin which has lovely luxury chalets and is located near the southern village of Den Hoorn. It also has fully-equipped tents, yurts, cabins and camping pitches.

It is only a few minutes drive from the ferry terminal and has a playground, an outdoor pool, onsite restaurant and is close to the Dunes National park.

Tip: If you can book outside of the Dutch school holiday season then prices will be significantly better value.

Things to Do in Texel

Climb the iconic texel lighthouse.

At the very north of Texel lies the imposing red Eierland lighthouse (Vuurtoren Texel) which has become the principal landmark of the island

Historically this was the most dangerous part of the Dutch coast with scores of ships being lost by the mid 19th century. It was decided that a lighthouse should be built and the structure was eventually completed in 1864.

The lighthouse was badly damaged during heavy fighting in the Second World War. It was rebuilt after the war but the damaged inner tower with its bullet holes was kept as a memorial.

The lighthouse is 35m high (47m above sea level) and is still in use although since 1990 it has been fully automated with no need for lighthouse keepers.

You can visit the lighthouse which has a winding staircase with 118 steps (no lift) to the top with stunning views of the surrounding coast and dunes. There is an exhibition presentation at each main level. Note, the light chamber itself is not accessible to the general public.

Open daily 1000-1700 mid-February to October; Wed/Sat/Sun 1000-1700 rest of the year. Entrance is €5.75, children 0-3 free.

Texel Lighthouse , Vuurtorenweg 184, 1795 LN De Cocksdorp

Specatcular view from the dike at De Slufter

The entire western coast of Texel is made up of the National Park Dunes of Texel (Nationaal Park Duinen van Texel) which covers some 43 km 2 . These beautiful grassy dunes and salt marshes attract migratory birds, particularly around the De Slufter estuary at the north-west side of the island.

The best way to visit the park is on foot or by bike through the numerous trails and paths. There are no entrance charges.

It is well worth climbing up the dike at De Slufter which gives one of the most truly spectacular views anywhere in the Netherlands. To get there turn west onto the Slufterweg near the Texel airport. The cycle junction number is 27.

Visit the Battery Den Hoorn observation bunker

Another magnificent view can be had at the former observation bunker ( Battery Den Hoorn ) in the south-eastern part of the island. Built in 1938-39, it is located just outside of Den Hoorn village.

From the bunker at the top there are 360 degrees views of the dunes and the sea. To the south you can see Den Helder on the mainland and the nearby Lange Jaap lighthouse. You can often see TESO ferries making their crossings. On the eastern side you get a lovely view of Den Hoorn with its beautiful church.

You can take a look around inside the bunker itself and there is a roof periscope in one of the rooms. From the bunker there is a 2km footpath through the dunes to the beach.

See seals at Ecomare

Ecomare is a seal sanctuary and nature centre located right in the middle of the Texel Dunes National Park, not far from the town of De Koog.

The sanctuary cares for about 100 seals which are generally let back to the wild after recovery. The seals are fed every day at 1100 and 1530 with a presentation from one of the keepers.

Ecomare also has porpoises, sea birds, a sea aquarium, whale skeletons and an Insect Hall. The Dune Park has 1.5km of walking trails and a children’s playground.

Ecomare is open daily 0930-1700, entrance for adults  is €15.50, children/youths 4-18 €10.50, children 0-3 free.

Ecomare , Ruijslaan 92, 1796 AZ De Koog

Visit Oudeschild fishing village (and have a great fish and chips!)

The old fishing village of Oudeschild is located on the east coast of Texel, not far from the main town of Den Burg. You can have a walk around the harbour or up on the dyke. You could also vist Kaap Skil (see further below), one of Texel’s main museums.

You can get a great fish meal at the popular Vispaleis en Rokerij Van Der Star , nextdoor to Kaap Skil on Heemskerckstraat.

Discover Novalishoeve organic farm

Novalishoeve is an organic social farm which provides opportunities for disabled people. It is located just outside of Den Hoorn, not far from the ferry port.

Visitors are free to roam the farm grounds. There is a farm shop which sells bread, dairy, vegetables, meat and other local products. The cafe onsite serves excellent coffee, cake, sandwiches and has lovely ice-cream.

It’s a great place for kids with a playground and selection of go-carts to get around on.

Open 0900-1630, Mon-Sat, closed Sundays.

Novalishoeve , Hoornderweg 46, 1797 RA Den Hoorn

Visit Kaap Skil Museum

Kaap Skil is a Maritime and Beachcombing Museum housed in a modern glass structure cladded with reclaimed wooden beams. Located in the fishing village of Oudeschild, it has a fine collections of beachcombing objects and dive finds.

The open-air part of the museum has old cottages and De Traanroeier windmill which originally dates back to 1727.

The museum basement houses the world’s largest maritime scale model which depicts the Texel Roads (Reede van Texel) , the offshore anchorage of Texel used by the Dutch East India Company as a departure point for expeditions to the Far East.

Kaap Skil is open 1000-1700 Tue-Sat, closed Mondays (except Jul-Aug). Entrance for adults is €11.50, children/youths 4-18 pay €8. Free entrance for children 0-3 and Museumkaart holders.

Museum Kaap Skil , Heemskerckstraat 9, 1792 AA Oudeschild

Photograph the church at Den Hoorn

The reformed church (first built in 1425) with its beautiful white tower is the most photographed object on Texel.

It has a remarkable location on the outskirts of the village and is surrounded by the landscape. You are free to enter the grounds and if open, step into the church itself.

Kerkstraat 5, 1797 AD Den Hoorn

Watch the sunset on Texel

You can enjoy watching the evening sunset on most of the western-facing beaches on Texel.

The very northern beach near the Texel lighthouse (Paal 31) is a popular place to see the sunset. Due to its unique geographic position it is the only beach in the Netherlands where you can see both the sunrise and sunset.

See beachcombing finds at Maritiem-en Juttersmuseum Flora

This is a fascinating museum located between Den Burg and De Koog with an incredible collection of beachcombing finds. With both outdoor and indoor exhibition areas, you will discover all about beachcombing and shipwreks on the island.

It also has an exhibition abouth the history of the TESO ferry service.

It is open 1000-1700 daily. Entrance for ages 12+ is €8, children 4-11 €6. Free entrance for children 0-3.

Maritiem-en Juttersmuseum Flora , Pontweg 141 A, 1796 MA De Koog

Visit a Texel sheep farm

The Schapenboerderij Texel is a farm with 25 breeds of sheep which is open daily for visitors.

It’s a wonderful place for kids where they can cuddle new born lambs and other animals, ride on a pony and run around the playground. There is a daily demonstration by the farmer who rounds up the sheep using highly trained sheep dogs.

Open daily 1000-1600, demonstrations at 1100 and 1400. Entrance for adults is €7.50, children 2-12 €6, children 0-1 free.

Schapenboederij Texel , Pontweg 77, 1791 LA Den Burg

Take a sightseeing flight over Texel

Local airline Tessel Air offers scenic flights around the island using small Cessna aircraft. Flying between 1,000 and 2,000 feet, these low level flights offer fantastic views.

You have the option of 15, 30, 45 or 60 minute flights – the longer flights offer the possibility to fly over other Wadden islands, North Holland and Friesland. It is also possible to take flying lessons.

If you are more adventurous the sister company Paracentrum Texel offers tandem skydiving jumps and parachuting courses.

The Texel Aviation and War Museum (Luchtvaart en OorlogsMuseum Texel) is a small museum at Texel’s airport which tells the story of the island’s aviation history, particularly during wartime. Of particular note was the Georgian Uprising on Texel which was one of the last battles in Europe during World War 2.

Open daily 1000-1700, Apr-Oct.

Aviation and War Museum , Postweg 126, 1795 JS De Cocksdorp

Hit the Texel beaches

Texel has 30km of beautiful white sandy beaches mainly located along the western coast. Some have lifeguards on duty between March and September

The beaches are numbered by posts (paal) starting with Paal 6 – which marks the 6km distance to Den Helder – up to Paal 33 in the north.

Some of our favourite beaches are Paal 9 (at Hoorndeslag), Paal 28 (at Krimweg), Paal 31 (at Vuurtorenweg) and Paal 33 (at Volharding).

Most beaches will have a pavilion cafe/restaurant where you can lounge and enjoy a meal or drink.

Spot the Sommeltjes (mythical creatures from Texel)

The Sommeltjespad is a pleasant 1.5km trail in the woods made especially for children. It is located just south of De Koog.

Follow the path by finding the stone Sommeltjes, mythical goblin-like creatures and other hidden sculptures. Legend has it that the creatures come alive in the night!

The Sommeltjespad is at Pelikaanweg, 1796 NT De Koog within the National Park.

Try the local Texel produce

Texel is well known for its high quality local produce and is particularly renowned for lamb, potatoes, dairy and seaweed. You will find these on sale all over the island and most supermarkets will also have a local produce section.

There are a number of locally brewed beers, the most well-known of which is the Texels which is served in most bars/restaurants.

You can pick your own organic strawberries (May to October) at the Voedselbos Texel , which is located between Den Burg and Oudeschild. It also has other berries and tomatoes to pick when in season.

Other activities on-site include a gnome path, jeep go-karts, a sand pit and cafe-shop.

Voedselbos Texel , Middellandseweg 4, 1792 CG Oudeschild

This article was originally published in 2019. Last updated 13 February 2024 .

Links on AmsterdamTips.com may pay us an affiliate commission.

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• Plan your trip

Texel, The Netherlands

Top things to do in Texel island

• How to get to Texel island

Hotels and holiday parks Texel

Top things to do on texel, restaurants texel, about texel, the netherlands.

The island is only 9 kilometres wide and 25 kilometres long, yet the largest of the Wadden islands, which separate the North Sea from the inshore waters of Wadden Sea. The latter is a UNESCO world heritage site, due to its unique ecosystem. During low tide sandbanks form which attracts loads of different birds and if you get close enough, you will definitely see a seal or two sunning themselves. Texel makes for an excellent weekend escape from Amsterdam and there is lots and lots to do.

How to get to Texel island?

• From Amsterdam, take the direct train to Den Helder. From the station hop on a bus to the ferry. As a foot passenger, simply buy your ticket at the ticket office. Ferries run every hour. On Texel, getting around on bus no. 28 is easy, but I also recommend renting a bike. Take your OV Chip Card , which you can charge as you go, to travel on public transport in The Netherlands.
• If you decide to rent a car and get to Texel, no problem. Just book your ferry ticket in advance so you don’t have to wait in line.
• Spending your time in Amsterdam and want to take a day trip to Texel? You can, this day trip is specially tailored to see the loveliest parts of the island in just a few hours time.

Just Texel Suites & Apartments

Just Texel Suites and Apartments is designed for just one thing: ultimate relaxation. It’s one of the best hotels on Texel . Stay in suites Just Relax, Just Married or Just Watching or opt for the Just Like Heaven Apartment. And heavenly all accommodation surely is. The rooms are stylishly decorated, with fabulous beds, pretty fabrics and lush outdoor space. Sit down with a glass of (locally produced!) and just enjoy.

Op Oost Boutique Hotel

Op Oost Boutique Hotel has to be one of the most beautiful boutique hotels in The Netherlands and it’s the perfect hotels to stay in during a trip to Texel. Op Oost Boutique Hotel is actually a gastro farm that has outbranched into a hotel with eleven unique rooms and one of the best restaurants on the island, in which they mainly cook with produce from their own farm or other producers on Texel. It’s amazing.

Boutique Hotel Texel

Boutique hotel Texel  is located in de Cocksdorp in the Texel countryside. The hotels offers a  remarkable experience and offers seven roomtypes which have stunning views ofdunes, farmlands and the mudflats. Enjoy a delicious dinner in the restaurant or treat yourself to a manicure, pedicure or massage in the hotel’s spa. If you’d like to explore the island, you can rent (electric) bicycles, mopeds or tandems at the hotel.

Hotel het Anker van Texel

Also located in De Cocksdorp, in the heart of the village, is Hotel het Anker van Texel . Offering lovely rooms in a traditional island house. The location is ideal for travellers seeking peace and quiet, with comdortable, cozy room and a wonderful breakfast to enjoy. The lovely restaurants and shops of De Cocksdorp are just a stone’s throw away.

Landal Sluftervallei

I was very impressed by my stay at Landal Sluftervallei . The cottages of Landal Sluftervallei are set in the dunes, which make you really feel like you blend in with the island. The beach is just a short stroll away, though rental bikes are on offer if you feel like exploring more. The holiday park offers an indoor pool, lots of playgrounds for the kids, a small supermarket and a (pretty impressive) restaurant.

Kustpark Texel

If you’re looking for a peaceful place to stay, but not too far from a lively place, Kustpark Texel is the best of both worlds. The dreamy cottages have recently been restyled and have large gardens. It’s a fun holiday park for kids, as there is a large indoor swimming pool. Kustpark Texel is also close to the beach and near the lively village of The Koog where you’ll find shops, bars and restaurants.

Beaches of Texel

The beaches of Texel are beautifully widespread, quiet and perfect for a long walk or flying a kite. With 30 kilometres of coastline, there are lots of different beaches to choose from. Like the beach at De Koof where most holidaymakers spend a sunny afternoon and enjoy a local beer at one of the beach clubs or you can visit the beach near De Hors in the south of Texel, where you’ll be all by yourself.

The lighthouse of Texel

The Texel lighthouse is called  Eierland lighthouse  and can’t be missed in the northern tip of the island, near De Cocksdorp. It was built at the end of the 19th century and is 35 meters high. Climb the 150 steps of the lighthouse to enjoy a marvellous view from the top over the island and the North Sea, you can see all the way to neighbouring island Vlieland.

Explore Dunes of Texel national park

I had no idea dunes could be so variated until I visited Texel.  The Dunes of Texel national park  basically stretches along the entire west side of the island and the landscape is mesmerizing: heather, grass, swamps, woodlands, acres of berries and wildflowers. Don’t be surprised to spot horses, wild cows and sheep. The dunes are brooding spot for dozens of birds, so if you’re a bird watcher, better take your binoculars with you.

Pick your own fruit and flowers

When I was little I spent many afternoons in Cornwall picking my own strawberries. I absolutely adored that. So when I found out there was a garden to pick your own fruit, vegetables and flowers on Texel, I simply had to go there.  De Zelfpluktuin  is near Oudeschild, one of the prettiest villages in Texel. On entrance, a sign tells you which fruit, vegetables and flowers are ready to be picked. The prices are really fair. If you don’t feel like venturing out to pick strawberries, simply take a seat in the café and order a coffee and some cake or buy some homemade jams and lemonades.

Seals are the popular inhabitants of both the Wadden Sea and the North Sea around Texel and when seals get hurt and wash up on the beach,  Ecomare  is where they are taken to. At Ecomare the seals are taken care off and after they’re patched up, they’re released back into the sea.

But the visiting centre is about much more than just watching the seal pups being fed (too cute), but is now all about understanding what a unique ecosystem the Wadden Sea really is and why it’s so important that it will be preserved (there’s a big bubble of oil underneath the Wadden Sea, so you can only imagine the corporate vultures who’d like to get their filthy little paws on this beautiful nature reserve). It’s also a lot of fun to take a look at the aquariums to see all the different fish, including sharks, that live in the seas surrounding Texel island.

Cheese tasting

So, us Dutch know Texel for the wool and for the beer. And for the cheese. Cheese from Texel is, apparently, quite the delicacy and they make it best at Cheese farm Wezenspyk where you can join a guided tour around the dairy farm, do a cheese tasting or buy some cheese to take home.

Den Burg is Texel’s unofficial capital and the largest village on the island. The small, winding street, flanked by traditional white and wooden houses are picture-perfect. Den Burgh has a museum, cinema, several supermarkets, nice shopping opportunities and many lovely cafés and restaurants. It’s a good idea to spend at least one afternoon or one morning discovering Den Burgh.

Oudeschild is maybe the prettiest village on Texel island. It’s located directly by the sea and is the perfect place to go for a seal spotting boat tour and discover the amazing ecosystem that is de Dutch Waddenzee. In the harbour, you’ll find the most amazing seafood restaurants. Don’t skip the Kaap Skil Museum .

Wine tasting at De Kroon

Wine tasting in The Netherlands? Yes, there are some vineyards in The Netherlands and  De Kroon van Texel  is one of them. Thanks to Texel’s unique ecosystem the island is actually quite the perfect place to grow grapes and make wine. The vineyard is set at the edge of the national park, in the dunes, and you should really go and taste their dry white, which is a lot like a Riesling.

Texelse bierbrouwerij

What used to be your average craft brewery has turned into one of the most popular breweries in The Netherlands. 10 beers are brew at Texelse bierbrouwerij and they’re made from mainly local produce. The beer is even brewed with water from the dunes of Texel, resulting in a very smooth and soft flavour. You can buy beers at the brewery shop or go on a brewery tour.

If you’re after something a tad more modern, Den Burg has plenty more to offer. I personally really loved  Lokaal 16 , on the edge of the city centre set in one of Texel’s traditional houses, painted a soft blue. It doesn’t really matter when you visit Lokaal 16, as long as you do. They serve lovely breakfasts, scrumptious salads and rolls for lunch and nice wine and beers in the afternoon. Or go for some organic lemonade.

Coffee and cake at Timmer

First stop is always a coffee stop! And this one is in Den Burg, the unofficial capital of Texel right in the heart of the island.  Bakker Timmer is right in the cosy city centre of Den Burg and as the name suggests it’s a bakery, but as soon as you walk in, you want to grab one of the few seats in the back and roam the glass cases as there are simply too many cakes and tarts to choose from. And it’s cheap, I mean…. really cheap. And good. So, maybe you might as well take two.

Oude Vismarkt

With Texel being an island, it’s no surprise that there’s plenty of amazing fish to be had. If you’d like some fresh fish for lunch or buy some fish and seafood to prepare yourself at night, visiting  Oude Vismarkt  in Oudeschild is the best place for it. This brand new fish shop is set in the old fish exchange, which has been completely renovated. Both locals and tourists make their way to Oude Vismarkt to have lunch at one of the wooden tables. What’s been caught that morning, is on your plate just a few hours later.

Now, I’m not in the habit of forcing my readers to do anything. But I really feel you’ve not visited Texel properly if you haven’t had lunch or dinner at ‘t Pakhuus. First of all, the setting is just amazing, in a completely renovated old warehouse along the Oudeschild harbour. Whilst eating you can watch the ships come in and sail out.

Second of all, because  ‘t Pakhuus  probably offers the best seafood that’s on offer in Texel. Because of the unique situation between the North Sea and the Wadden Sea, all sorts of beautiful fish and shellfish are caught and these are all beautifully served up at ‘t Pakhuus. Husband and I went there for a three-course lunch and were simply elated. We had locally grown oysters, a lobster bisque and salads made with freshly caught tuna and salmon. Even though the restaurant looks a little posh, we were more than welcome with our baby in the pram, who slept the whole way through lunch.

Gastropaviljoen XV

You can’t go to Texel island without visiting one of the lovely beach clubs. And Gastropaviljoen XV is a wonderful beach club, which only opens in summer. The interior design, with lots of wood, vintage and plants, is just so cosy and the menu is very interesting as well. 

Paal 17 is without a doubt one of the most famous beach clubs on Texel island. It’s the perfect place for lunch or for a glass of Texel beer and some snacks after a long walk on the beach. There’s a large terrace, but if it’s a little chillier inside is just as cosy. 

Kaap Noord is a beach club situated at the most northern tip of Texel island and it’s the perfect spot for a sundowner. Order a chilled wine, a local beer or a cocktail and just watch the beach. On a clear day, you can even see neighbouring island Vlieland. 

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Read more about Texel, The Netherlands

• Texel with kids: 8 fun things to do
• A guide to Oudeschild, Texel
• Sleeping with the Dutch: Landal Sluftervallei, Texel

Read more about the Wadden Island

• Ameland, The Netherlands
• Roompot Boomhiemke, Ameland

Waddenveer De Vriendschap

De Vriendschap is  a seasonal Passenger boat that orgganizes several tours on the Wadden Sea, including daytrips to Vlieland  .  Would you like to experience the adventure of island hopping around the Wadden Islands? Then you can of course take your bike on the one way trip from Texel to Vlieland or vice versa!

We are also the only boat that offer Seal Watching tours in this special en unique area on the Wadden Sea, the ' Eijerlandse Gat.' In this quiet area there are many seals on the sandbanks and swimming in the water, nowhere around Texel you can see as much as we see here! Or do you join us to the mudflats with our sandbank excursion ?

We hope to welcome you to join us on De Vriendschap and to enjoy this unique area!

Upcoming boattrips

• Single trip to Vlieland - Vliehors Expres - Het Posthuys Tue 03-09-2024 17:15
• Seal Watching tour Wed 04-09-2024 12:00
• Daytrip to Vlieland - Vliehors Expres - Posthuys Thu 05-09-2024 09:30
• Daytrip to Texel - Posthuys - Vliehors Expres Thu 05-09-2024 09:30

Ayora keeps calm to seal maiden Challenge Tour title

Angel Ayora held his nerve on the final day of the Rosa Challenge Tour to secure a memorable maiden Challenge Tour title in Poland.

The Spaniard, who led by two strokes going into the final day, recorded a level par round of 70 to end the week on 13 under par and win by three shots from Northern Irishman Dermot McElroy.

The 19-year-old climbs to ninth in the Road to Mallorca Rankings following his win to move closer to securing promotion to the DP World Tour in his first year as a professional.

Ayora, who has recorded three top ten finishes this season prior to victory, was delighted to join the winner’s circle in Konopiska.

“This is my first year as pro, so to have a win is very special,” he said. “To give myself a chance to get onto the DP World Tour makes me very happy. It’s my dream to play on the DP World Tour, that’s all I can say.

“This is so good for me and for my team. I’m very proud of all the work we’ve put in to do this.”

Ayora started the day two shots clear and extended that to three with a birdie at the par five third. Despite a dropped shot on the following hole, he responded with three birdies in four holes around the turn to move six shots ahead of the chasing pack.

The Spaniard remained clear of the chasing pack despite dropping three shots coming home, and will follow victory by teeing it up in Switzerland next week in the Omega European Open on the DP World Tour.

“I’m going straight to Switzerland to play on the DP World Tour which will be a special week,” he added. “I’ll take a week off before coming back to play the Italian Challenge Open on the Challenge Tour to try and end the season well and get promoted.

“I was just telling myself on 18 to hit a nice tee shot, hit a nice second shot and see if I can finish it in as fewer shots as possible.

“I did feel the pressure a little bit on the back nine. I still hit good shots, and I hit good shots all week which was the main thing.”

Sweden’s Jens Fahrbring and Christofer Rahm finished four shots off the lead on nine under par in third, with six players one shot further back in fifth including Italian duo Gregorio de Leo and Aron Zemmer, Frenchman Benjamin Hébert, Dane John Axelsen, Finn Oliver Lindell and German Nicolai von Dellingshausen.

The top eight places in the Road to Mallorca Rankings remain the same, with Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen from Denmark retaining his place as the Number One on 1,122 points, with Englishman John Parry 11 points behind in second. Swede Björn Åkesson climbs three places to 17th, with Norwegian Andreas Halvorsen occupying the final promotion place in 20th.

Betfred British Masters hosted by Sir Nick Faldo - day three digest

Niklas Nørgaard surges clear, the tenth hole proves tempting and Tyrrell Hatton shows his class in the trees during the third round of the at the 2024 Betfred British Masters hosted by Sir Nick Faldo. Everything you need to know from Moving Day at The Belfry.

DP World Tour Partners

Sport | Golf

Scottie Scheffler caps stunning season with £19m win at Tour Championship to seal FedEx Cup title

Scottie Scheffler capped a remarkable season as he won the Tour Championship in typically ruthless fashion.

The world number one carded a final-round 67 to finish four shots clear of Collin Morikawa and take the FedEx Cup title, with Sahith Theegala two shots further back in third.

Scheffler took home more than £19million for his victory, his seventh on the PGA Tour this season to go with a gold medal at the Paris Olympics. The 28-year-old won The Masters in April, having defending his Players title at TPC Sawgrass.

Rory McIlroy finished in a tie for ninth, along with Hideki Matsuyama and Shane Lowry, while Robert MacIntyre shared 17th after a superb round of 64 to close his PGA Tour season.

As a result of leading the FedEx Cup heading into the season-ending event, Scheffler started at ten-under in Atalanta, two shots ahead of nearest rival Xander Schauffele.

Morikawa was the man in closest pursuit as the leaders teed off on Sunday, but a bogey on the opening hole swiftly extended Scheffler’s lead to six shots.

There was a wobble, though, from Scheffler, as he dropped a shot on the seventh and then shanked a bunker shot on the eighth, his lead suddenly cut to just two.

"I was a bit frustrated because it was quite a basic shot but I've shanked it from a similar lie before," Scheffler said.

"Ted [Scott, Scheffler's caddie] did a good job of helping me reset, and then I did some really nice stuff to finish this tournament off."

Three straight birdies followed than shank, backed up with an eagle on the par-five 14th, allowing Scheffler to ease towards the finishing line. Four pars on the bounce closed out victory, the American finishing on 30 under and, as has become familiar, in a league of his own.

Including all prize money and bonuses, Scheffler earned more than £47m on the course this year, with his seven wins the most in a year since Tiger Woods matched that tally in 2007.

There had been some debate heading into the Tour Championship as to who had enjoyed the better season, with Schauffele’s two major victories edging him above Scheffler in the eyes of certain observers. After another week of Scheffler domination, that question has surely been answered.

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Zeehonden Texel Contact

Call (09:00 - 19:00):

• Het Sop: 06 209 205 94
• [email protected]

Seal Texel is part of Het Sop: KVK: 87713071. Tax nr: NL113738237B01.

Contact us:

frequently asked questions:

Navigate to HetSop in the harbor of Oudeschild. Or use the address below. You will find us in the harbor at the kiosk of Het Sop.

Haven 8 1792 AE Oudeschild

On the boat trips page, you can select the desired trip, then fill in all the required information and choose your preferred payment method. We currently support iDeal, Bancontact, Sofort Banking, and Credit Card.

After your booking, you will always receive a confirmation by email. Don’t forget to check your spam folder if you don’t see our email right away.

If you have any problems, contact us by email of phone ; by phone, we can reserve a spot for you the quickest. You can reach us by phone every day from 09:00 to 19:00.

If you haven’t received a confirmation email, first check if the email has arrived in your spam folder.

Contact us by e-mail of phone  if you haven’t received your tickets, and we will resend the tickets by email.

Look here: The best activities on Texel. The main sights of Texel. Discover what there is to do in Oudeschild. Seal Facts and Information.

What other people are saying

Seals spotted, from super close up! Had a fun boat trip. Dog was absolutely welcome. Nice chat with the skipper, and on the way back, we sped up.

via Google Reviews

Got very close to the seals. What an amazing experience! Booked with the family, and they have a memory to never forget. Everything well arranged over the phone.

Beautiful boat, friendly skipper, plenty of time to watch the seals. A top outing!