Amsterdam is taking significant steps to address the issue of overtourism by implementing new policies aimed at reducing the influx of “nuisance” tourists. The Dutch capital has announced plans to limit the number of cruise ships that can dock at its main port terminal and to eventually relocate the terminal outside the city. This move is part of a broader strategy to make the city more livable for residents and more sustainable for the environment.
Starting in 2026, the number of sea cruises allowed to stop at the Passengers Terminal Amsterdam will be capped at 100, a significant reduction from the current 190. By 2035, the main terminal for cruise stops will be moved outside the city, effectively preventing large cruise ships from docking in the city center. Additionally, by 2027, all cruise ships will be required to use shore power while docked, reducing the use of onboard diesel engines and thereby cutting carbon emissions.
Hester van Buren, an alderman for the municipal government, stated, “By limiting sea cruises, requiring shore power, and aiming for the cruise terminal to move from its current location in 2035, the council is responsibly implementing the proposal to stop sea cruises.” This initiative is not just about reducing pollution but also about managing the overcrowding that the cruise industry brings to the city.
The cruise cap is the latest in a series of measures Amsterdam has taken to combat overtourism. In April, the city banned the construction of new hotels, allowing new hotels to be built only if an existing one closes. This “one-in, one-out” system ensures that the number of hotel beds does not increase, and any new hotels must meet modern and sustainable standards. “Amsterdam says ‘no’ to new hotels,” reads a translated statement from city officials. “We want to make and keep the city livable for residents and visitors.”
Amsterdam is a popular destination known for its tolerant drug policies, sex industry, and vibrant party scene. However, city officials have been trying for years to rein in the hordes of “nuisance” tourists attracted by the promise of a night of debauchery. The city council recently implemented the “tourism in balance in Amsterdam” policy, which sets a maximum number of overnight stays and day visits, capping the annual visitor count at 20 million people per year. In 2023, the number of hotel nights was recorded at 20,665,000.
To further curb the rowdy crowds, especially in the Red Light District, the city has cracked down on public pot smoking and limited the operating hours of certain restaurants and sex establishments. Amsterdam also launched a “Stay Away” campaign targeting British men aged 18 to 35, who frequently visit the city for bachelor parties. The campaign aims to deter this demographic by warning them of the consequences of excessive drinking, drug use, and antisocial behavior.
In 2019, the city announced it would end tours of the Red Light District, citing concerns about sex workers being treated as a tourist attraction. This year, Amsterdam also announced a ban on the use of marijuana on the streets and new measures to discourage alcohol consumption in the Red Light District.
In addition to these measures, Amsterdam plans to restrict river cruises, convert hotels into offices, and impose earlier closing times on bars and clubs. These steps are all part of the city’s broader effort to “limit tourism and prevent nuisance.”
While the city center may not become a cruise-free zone immediately, the deputy mayor’s spokesperson acknowledged that the proposal to relocate the cruise terminal will “take some time” to implement. However, the city is committed to making these changes to ensure a more sustainable and livable environment for both residents and visitors.
Amsterdam’s approach to managing tourism is a proactive one, aiming to balance the needs of its residents with the demands of its visitors. By implementing these measures, the city hopes to create a more sustainable and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Source: Skift, CNN
