Rotterdam regulates river cruise berths with new system

Rotterdam regulates river cruise berths with new system

ROTTERDAM, 18 October 2024 – Rotterdam has introduced a new booking system for river cruises aimed at improving safety, reducing disturbances, and promoting sustainability. CruiseDock Rotterdam will now regulate the use of berths for river cruise ships, providing a structured way for shipping companies to reserve docking spaces in the city.

Photo credit: Rhalda Jansen Fotografie

Rotterdam launches river cruise booking system

The new system, CruiseDock Rotterdam, was officially introduced by Alderman Robert Simons, who oversees the port, economy, and real estate. The system offers a streamlined process for river cruise companies to book berths, fulfilling a long-standing goal of Rotterdam to better regulate cruise traffic along the city’s main docks.

According to Alderman Simons, "With the launch of CruiseDock Rotterdam, we are taking an important step towards professionalising river cruise traffic in our city. This system not only ensures nautical safety but also contributes to the sustainability and economic growth of Rotterdam. It is a win-win for both the city and the cruise companies."

Unregulated berths caused problems

Until now, the berthing of river cruise ships at locations such as Leuvehoofd, Boompjeskade, Oosterkade, and Rhijnspoorkade had been unregulated. This often resulted in overcrowding along the quays, posing risks to nautical safety and creating disturbances for nearby residents.

The introduction of CruiseDock Rotterdam aims to mitigate these issues. By allowing cruise companies to pre-book berths in an organised manner, the system provides certainty about berth availability, reduces inconvenience for locals, and improves overall nautical safety. The system manages 13 designated berths strategically spread across the four quays mentioned.

Focus on sustainability

In addition to improving safety, CruiseDock Rotterdam aligns with the city’s sustainability goals. Only ships that meet strict environmental standards, such as holding the Green Award certification, will be granted access to the berths. Furthermore, revenues from docking fees will be reinvested into sustainability projects, such as providing shore power, which will help reduce the emissions from ships while docked.

By 2025, it is expected that approximately 1,000 river cruise ships will dock in Rotterdam. The estimated annual revenue from docking fees and tourist taxes is projected to reach €1 million, based on an assumption of 800 ships using the new system.

Location details

The four quays where the berths are located are Leuvehoofd, Boompjeskade, Oosterkade, and Rhijnspoorkade. These locations are centrally positioned along the Nieuwe Maas, providing easy access to the city and its attractions.

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