More megayacht owners seeking cruising grounds outside of the Med mean more regions are eager to lure them. Add the port of Amsterdam to the list. In fact, the Dutch port already has three moorings available. It’s seeking to add more, too, with input from superyacht shipyards and suppliers in particular.
The moorings are at the National Maritime Museum, the Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (pictured), and the Amsterdam Marina. The National Maritime Museum provides a picturesque backdrop. While it can only accommodate one yacht, a 230-footer (70-meter) can fit here. The museum is walking distance to other city attractions, too. The passenger cruise terminal, meanwhile, has the most space. Already ISPS compliant, it offers 1,968 feet (600 meters) of side-to dockage if no cruise ships are in town. It, too, is walking distance to attractions. Finally, the Amsterdam Marina, in the northern part of the city, can accommodate yachts to 164 feet (50 meters). A ferry takes you to the city center.
The port of Amsterdam has several factors working in its favor. For example, it’s the fourth-largest port in northwestern Europe. With cruise ships and cargo ships arriving regularly, depth and width therefore are not issues, in contrast to other Dutch cities. In fact, these are big reasons why Feadship is adding a fourth yard in Amsterdam.
As for future superyacht slips, Alma Prins, commercial manager for superyachts for the Port of Amsterdam, says the port is applying for permits to use piers near the Amsterdam central train terminal. River cruise ships have previously used these piers. Finally, though her office is still eyeing the final location, Prins says the port wishes to establish a superyacht service area, too. This would be for minor work and for shipyards to complete final fit out for sea trials.
Regardless of where a superyacht seeks to dock in Amsterdam, Prins says additional security can be arranged at owners’ requests. Furthermore, both the port and the Holland Yachting Group, a trade organization representing most Dutch superyacht yards, are speaking with other northern European ports about establishing a cruising route. The goal is to incorporate Amsterdam within a route that also promotes areas like Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and even Ireland.
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