Amsterdam is taking steps to combat overtourism by planning to ban cruise ships from entering the city centre entirely by 2035. The city aims to reduce the number of cruise ships allowed to dock at the Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA) from 190 to a maximum of 100 by 2026. Rotterdam will welcome over 40 ships that are not permitted in Amsterdam starting in 2026. By 2027, all boats in the Amsterdam terminal will be required to use shore power to minimize their environmental impact. These measures are part of the city’s efforts to control tourism growth and mitigate any disturbances caused by cruise ships.
The decision to ban cruise ships from Amsterdam is in line with the municipal council’s desire to end the use of the cruise terminal in the city. Sea cruising is considered a polluting form of tourism that contributes to congestion and emissions in Amsterdam. By restricting sea cruises, mandating the use of shore power, and planning to move the cruise terminal by 2035, the city council is working to address these issues responsibly. While the plans will help improve environmental conditions in Amsterdam, there are concerns about the potential loss of income from tourism. The city council acknowledges that the decision may lead to reduced tourist tax revenue and lower dividend payments, which will be reflected in future budget statements.
Amsterdam currently benefits from around €105 million in economic gains from cruises annually, but experts believe that this figure is unlikely to change significantly even after the ban on cruise ships in the city centre. Despite the relocation of the cruise terminal, the city still expects to attract millions of visitors each year. Of the 21 million visitors annually, only one percent arrive via cruises. Although cruise passengers will not be able to disembark directly in the city centre, they will still have access to Amsterdam through the Netherlands’ efficient public transportation system. The city anticipates managing any potential financial consequences of the decision in future budget planning.
By reducing the number of cruise ships allowed to dock in Amsterdam and ultimately banning them from the city centre by 2035, the city aims to control overtourism and its negative impacts on the environment and local residents. The decision to relocate the cruise terminal, require the use of shore power, and limit sea cruises is part of a broader strategy to limit tourism growth and combat nuisance in the city. While the ban on cruise ships may lead to a decrease in income from tourism, Amsterdam is looking to balance environmental sustainability with economic benefits. The city council’s efforts to manage tourism and cruise activities reflect a commitment to creating a more sustainable and manageable tourism industry in Amsterdam.