Learn Dutch: Hoe laat vertrekken we? - What time do we leave?

In Dutch, you don't ask for the time by saying 'Wat tijd'. Instead, you use the set phrase Hoe laat, which literally means 'How late'. You will use this phrase every time you want to ask when something happens.

Why is the word order vertrekken we instead of we vertrekken?

Because this is a question! When a question starts with a question word or phrase like Hoe laat, the verb comes immediately after it, and the subject follows the verb. This swapping of the subject and verb is how Dutch forms open questions.

What is the difference between vertrekken and gaan?

Vertrekken specifically means 'to leave' or 'to depart'. You use it when you are talking about setting off on a journey, or a train or flight leaving. Gaan just means 'to go' in a general sense.

Can I say Hoe laat vertrekken wij? instead?

Yes, you can. We is just the unstressed, everyday form of wij. Unless you really need to emphasize who is leaving (as in, 'What time are we leaving, as opposed to them?'), we is the most natural and common choice.