As a Travel Advisor, we are constantly keeping an eye on the ever-shifting tides of the travel world, and right now, all eyes are on Amsterdam. If an enchanting river cruise through this iconic city is on your travel bucket list, you’ll want to act fast.
Starting next year, in a bold move to manage overtourism, the city of Amsterdam will cap river cruise calls at 1,150 ships annually, a sharp drop from the 1,950 that docked in 2024. That’s a 41% reduction, which means fewer opportunities to experience the magic of Amsterdam from the water.
What Does This Mean For You?
Fewer docking spots mean fewer itineraries and higher demand. If you dream of a river cruise with Amsterdam among your stops, early booking is crucial; otherwise, space could fill up, or itineraries forced to change.
Why You Need to Book ASAP?
Amsterdam will assign docking quotas to cruise lines based on the previous year’s bookings. This means early reservations are not just a good idea, they’re strategic. By booking now, you’re not only securing your spot on a coveted itinerary but also helping cruise operators lock in their limited access to Amsterdam’s ports.
Here’s why you should take the leap:
- Limited Availability: With strict docking permit quotas, early booking gives you and your preferred cruise line the best chance of securing your preferred dates and route.
- Economic Impact: River cruise passengers make up just 2% of Amsterdam’s visitors but contribute over $250 million annually—a clear sign that the city values river tourism, yet aims for greater control.
Your Dream Trip Could be Affected: With fewer ships allowed, cruise lines may be forced to alter or even drop Amsterdam from their routes. Booking early safeguards your plans.
Other Important Changes in Amsterdam
Ocean cruise calls will also be restricted, with a cap of 100 per year by 2026, and city-center docking will be fully phased out by 2035.
A Day Tripper tax (approximately $15.15 per cruise passenger) applies to all arrivals.
New restrictions on hotels and party tourism reflect the city’s shift toward more sustainable travel.
My Advice as a Travel Advisor
If Amsterdam is a must-see for you, don’t wait for the next wave of restrictions or a last-minute rush. Booking your river cruise now could be the difference between waking up to Amsterdam’s canals or missing it altogether. For a more relaxed experience, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (October–November) and make time to explore lesser-known neighborhoods like Noord or De Pijp for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path vibe.
📩 Let’s get your trip booked before the tide turns and availability disappears!
Click Here for more information on river cruising and start planning your journey.
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