The number of sea cruise ships will be almost halved from 190 to a maximum of 100 per year from 2026. The Passenger Terminal Amsterdam will also immediately return to 1 berth and cruise ships will be required to use shore power in Amsterdam from 2027. The aim is a definitive departure from the cruise terminal on Veemkade in 2035.
Banning cruise ships is part of a broad package of measures to limit the growth of tourism and combat nuisance. We want Amsterdam to be clean, liveable and sustainable. Sea cruises are polluting and cause crowds and emissions in the city. With these measures, the council is also implementing the municipal council's wish to put an end to the cruise terminal in the center of Amsterdam.
Responsible way
By limiting the number of cruise ships, requiring shore power and investigating a possible relocation of the terminal, we are following the recommendations of research agency Berenschot. They have conducted independent research into the different interests of various stakeholders. Discussions were held with people from the industry, the city, the region and the government.
Sustainability
Reducing the number of sea cruise ships is one of the measures to achieve a sustainable visitor economy. In addition to reducing tourist crowds, the measure also reduces emissions of pollutants such as particulate matter, nitrogen and sulfur oxides and CO2. This is not only due to the arrival of fewer ships, but also due to the obligation to have shore power in 2027. Shore power also ensures less noise pollution from moored ships.
Less income
The curtailment will reduce expenditure by sea cruise passengers and shipping companies in Amsterdam. This is mainly because tourists spend less in museums, restaurants, shops and excursions, for example. But also by stocking less fuel. The municipality's income also decreases as a result, because less tourist tax is collected and the municipality earns less as a shareholder of the Port Authority. The financial consequences of the curtailment will be included in the next Spring Memorandum. No consequences of this decision are yet expected in the 2025 budget.
Investigate PTA relocation
In collaboration with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, the Port Authority and the province of North Holland, it is being investigated whether it is financially and legally possible to move the PTA to the Coenhaven. Based on this research, the council will decide in consultation with the government, the Port Authority and the province of North Holland whether relocation is possible from 2035.
More information: Amsterdam.nl