Sea cruise

With its central location in the city, the Port of Amsterdam is a strong player in the sea cruise market. The city offers vibrancy, its history, bustling sights, culture and luxury hotels. The port region of Amsterdam has excellent facilities for cruise ships bound for Amsterdam.

The modern passenger terminal in Amsterdam is close to all the tourist attractions that Amsterdam and its surroundings have to offer . Also the terminal is easily accessible; 20 minutes away from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and right next to Amsterdam Central Station. There is also special parking for coaches and berths for touring boats.

The terminal combines efficient handling of ships and baggage with a warm welcome for passengers and crew. Moreover, Amsterdam is a logical cruise port for turnaround calls.

We aim for emission-free docking of all sea cruise ships in our port by 2030. In doing so we improve air quality and contribute to the sustainability ambitions of the city of Amsterdam. As of January 2022, Port of Amsterdam applies a fee structure based on the emission certification of the ships’ engines (TIER). In addition, we give discounts to sea cruise ships that report their emission levels and those with below-average emission levels.

Measures & ambitions for the coming years

The Municipality of Amsterdam charges a day tourist tax for TRANSIT sea and river cruise passengers who moor within the municipal boundaries of Amsterdam. For whom the day tourist tax has to be paid and how it works? Read more.

Day tourist tax

‘Our cruise departed from Amsterdam. Our taxi brought us right in front of the entrance of the cruise terminal. We were able to drop off our bags immediately and walked straight through to check-in, which took place quickly and efficiently. After only a 30-minute wait, we boarded the MS Koningsdam. We departed right on time and we enjoyed the view from the deck while the ship was turning.'

'The journey to IJmuiden was wonderful and getting to see the scenery and the locks was just fantastic. At the end of our two-week cruise we returned to Amsterdam and also the debarking process ran like clockwork. We were on our train within 30 minutes after debarking. In short: a beautiful cruise, wonderful location and perfect organisation!'

- mr Van der Hoest, cruise passenger