ROTTERDAM, 31 March 2025 – Cruise ships docking at Rotterdam’s Cruise Terminal can now connect to shore power (walstroom), reducing emissions and noise while in port. The city has become the first in the Netherlands to activate this facility for sea cruise vessels, ahead of EU requirements taking effect in 2030.
Cruise Terminal now equipped with shore power
As of 31 March 2025, sea cruise ships calling at the Holland Amerika Kade are able to switch off their engines and connect to shore-side electricity. This change is intended to limit air pollution and noise generated by docked ships. The launch was marked during an official event attended by alderman Robert Simons (Port & Economy), Port of Rotterdam Authority CEO Boudewijn Siemons, and representatives of Cruise Port Rotterdam.
Alderman Simons, a long-standing proponent of shore power, emphasised its significance for both sustainability and economic continuity. “By activating shore power for sea cruise ships, we take another step towards making our city and port more sustainable. Cruise ships contribute significantly to the economy, and by connecting them to the grid, we improve air quality and reduce noise. This benefits both liveability and our economy,” he stated.
Rotterdam activates cruise ship shore power
Realisation of the project
The idea to install shore power at the Cruise Terminal originated in 2019 following a motion by city councillor Geert Koster. A formal agreement between the City of Rotterdam, the Port of Rotterdam Authority and Cruise Port Rotterdam was signed in March 2022. Construction was carried out by the Danish company PowerCon, in cooperation with Dutch grid operator Stedin and several subcontractors. The municipality supported the project with an interest-free loan of €8.75 million.
It is expected that by the end of 2025, around 75% of sea cruise ships in Rotterdam will be making use of this facility. From 2027 onwards, use of onboard generators will be prohibited at Wilhelminapier, making shore power mandatory for docked cruise ships.
The installation at the Cruise Terminal is not affected by the recently announced network congestion issues in the region.
Rotterdam activates cruise ship shore power
The role of shore power in the energy transition
Shore power is considered essential to Rotterdam’s energy transition efforts. Moored ships typically run diesel-powered generators, producing nitrogen, particulate matter, CO₂ emissions and noise. Shore power allows ships to plug into the local power grid, eliminating these emissions during docking.
The city actively supports shore power development. Subsidies are offered to companies investigating its feasibility or planning to invest in related infrastructure.
Further information on shore power initiatives in Rotterdam can be found via the Port of Rotterdam’s dedicated page.
Directions to the Cruise Terminal
The Cruise Terminal is located at Holland Amerika Kade, on the Wilhelminapier in central Rotterdam. The area is easily accessible by public transport, including tram, metro (Wilhelminaplein station), and water taxi. Parking is available in nearby garages. The terminal sits near landmarks such as Hotel New York and De Rotterdam.
