Amsterdam Considers Banning Cruise Ships by 2035

The city of Amsterdam is considering a complete ban on large cruise ships by 2035 as part of broader efforts to combat overtourism and reduce environmental damage in the historic city center.

Amsterdam currently welcomes around 20 million visitors annually, a figure that far exceeds its population of fewer than one million residents. 

City authorities say the imbalance has put severe pressure on infrastructure, housing, and quality of life, prompting years of measures aimed at slowing the rapid growth of tourism.

Under the proposal, the city would seek a permanent alternative to docking large cruise ships in the heart of Amsterdam. 

The issue has gained momentum amid rising concerns over pollution and urban congestion. 

In recent years, Amsterdam has already imposed restrictions on new hotel construction and scaled back tourism promotion, particularly targeting so-called “party tourists,” including groups visiting the Red Light District from the UK and nearby regions, whose behavior has drawn complaints from residents.

The city’s stance on overtourism gained international attention in 2023, when Amsterdam was included on Fodor’s “No List” of destinations discouraged for travel due to overcrowding.

Environmental impact remains the central argument against large cruise ships. City officials have long sought to move cruise terminals away from the center, citing air pollution and climate concerns. 

Additionally, the current terminal location interferes with plans to construct a new bridge over the IJ River.

In July last year, environmental activists from the group Extinction Rebellion blocked the arrival of the cruise ship Celebrity Eclipse, which was carrying around 2,850 passengers, using inflatable boats. 

Although the ship was delayed for two hours before docking, police later arrested five activists. Ironically, activists said they chose the vessel despite its relatively strong environmental rating to highlight the broader issue of cruise ship emissions.

According to city estimates, banning large cruise ships could result in losses of around €46 million over the next three decades. 

Meanwhile, building a new cruise terminal outside the city center would cost more than €85 million, with no guarantee that future revenues would justify the investment.

The current city administration has stated it will not vote on a ban or relocation plan until after the local elections on March 18, leaving the final decision to the next municipal government.

In the meantime, the city council has already agreed to limit the number of large cruise ships to fewer than 100 per year, a target set to take effect this year.

The proposed ban would not affect river cruises, which make up a significant share of Amsterdam’s maritime traffic. 

The city has long been a major hub for European river tourism.

Rob Hovland, leader of a local political party, said banning large cruise ships would benefit the city, arguing that such vessels pollute the air, harm the climate, worsen overcrowding, and obstruct key infrastructure projects.

He also noted that relocating the terminal within the city is not feasible.

Tourists arriving by sea would still have options, as large cruise ships already dock in Rotterdam, Europe’s largest port, located just one hour from Amsterdam by train. Smaller vessels also occasionally dock in The Hague.

Amsterdam’s debate reflects a wider European trend. Other cities facing similar pressures have taken action, with Greece considering a passenger tax on cruise visitors, while Barcelona has closed several cruise terminals to reduce daily arrivals and ease strain on the city.