Amsterdam-Rhine Canal remains open at night following intensive consultations between Rijkswaterstaat, the sector and the port

Working together towards a solution

Over the past few days, Rijkswaterstaat, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, Port of Amsterdam, Royal Dutch Inland Navigation Association (KBN), ORAM, VOTOB and representatives from across the sector have been engaged in intensive discussions about the impact of the proposed restriction and possible alternatives. These discussions carefully considered both safety on the canal and the consequences for shipping, waiting areas, terminals and logistics chains.

Rijkswaterstaat has now decided that the canal can remain open, provided that additional safety measures are in place. Port of Amsterdam welcomes this outcome and the constructive cooperation between all parties involved. This joint effort helps safeguard both the accessibility of the port and the continuity of operations.

Safe navigation requires everyone's commitment

Due to staff shortages, the Wijk bij Duurstede traffic control centre will remain closed between 22:00 and 06:00 for the time being. During these hours, no regular traffic guidance will be available in the Maarssen and Wijk bij Duurstede sectors. Extra vigilance therefore remains essential.

We urgently ask all skippers to comply with the applicable navigation rules and to adjust their speed and course in a timely manner. Only by working together can we keep the canal safe and accessible.

• Respect the overtaking and passing restrictions in force on the narrow sections of the Amsterdam-Rhine Canal and in the Demka bend;
• Observe a maximum speed of 15 km/h in the narrowing sections and in the Demka bend;
• Exercise extra caution during night-time hours when no traffic guidance is available;
• Remain mindful of other waterway users and adjust speed and course in a timely manner.

Compliance is key

Rijkswaterstaat will continue to monitor the situation closely. If compliance falls short or if greater safety risks arise, the decision to keep the canal fully open may be reconsidered. It is therefore in the interest of the entire inland shipping sector that everyone adheres to the applicable rules and guidelines.

Together we keep the ARK open

We would like to thank all parties who contributed constructively and acted swiftly to help find a solution. Now it is up to all of us to demonstrate, through safe navigation, that keeping the canal open remains a responsible choice.

More information

Rijkswaterstaat: Amsterdam-Rhine Canal remains open for shipping