Distance from Port of New York City to Port of Rotterdam
Great-circle distance, compass bearing and a transit estimate between Port of New York City (USNYC) and Port of Rotterdam (NLRTM).
initial heading from Port of New York City
14–24 knots, direct
About the Port of New York City–Port of Rotterdam route
The great-circle (straight-line) distance from Port of New York City (USNYC) in United States to Port of Rotterdam (NLRTM) in Netherlands is approximately 5,857 km — that is 3,162 nautical miles or 3,639 statute miles. The initial heading from Port of New York City is about 50° (northeast).
At a typical merchant service speed, a direct passage of this length would take roughly 6 days for a fast container ship (about 24 knots) and up to 10 days for a slower bulk carrier (about 14 knots). Real voyages are longer than the great-circle figure: ships follow established sea lanes, transit canals and straits such as Suez, Panama or Malacca, and adjust for weather and traffic.
How this is calculated
The distance is the great-circle (orthodromic) distance between the published coordinates of Port of New York City and Port of Rotterdam — the shortest path over the Earth’s surface. Actual sea routes are longer, following shipping lanes, canals and straits. Transit figures are planning approximations, not schedules.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Port of New York City from Port of Rotterdam?
The great-circle distance from Port of New York City (USNYC) to Port of Rotterdam (NLRTM) is about 5,857 km (3,162 nautical miles / 3,639 miles).
What direction is Port of Rotterdam from Port of New York City?
Setting out from Port of New York City, the initial bearing to Port of Rotterdam is about 50°, which is roughly northeast.
How long does it take to sail from Port of New York City to Port of Rotterdam?
A direct great-circle passage would take about 6–10 days depending on vessel speed (roughly 24 knots down to 14 knots). Actual sea routes are longer because they follow shipping lanes and canals.