On August 10, 2024, seven members of the Dutch environmental group Extinction Rebellion successfully blocked Royal Caribbean International’s Jewel of the Seas from disembarking at the Port of Amsterdam. They were back the next day to block Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Mariner from docking and did cause a nearly three hour delay before guests were able to disembark. Guests were able to embark again without disruption.
On August 16, 2024, Ambassador Cruise Line made the decision to reroute Ambition to the port of IJmuiden stating on social media that the cruise line had been informed by local port agents that the Dutch environmental group planned another protest. With IJmuiden an hour’s drive from Amsterdam, Ambassador Cruise Line provided transportation for those who wanted to visit Amsterdam or had planned excursions.
Two days later, on August 18, 2024, despite proactive efforts by Royal Caribbean International, the environmental activists prevented Serenade of the Seas from entering the IJumuiden locks delaying the ship’s itinerary by several hours. Protesters had spray painted, “Oil kills, stop cruise ships,” on the doors of the lock before tying themselves to a lock near IJmuiden. Police were called and the protestors were taken into custody, but later released without being arrested.
The activists are protesting the impact of cruising on the environment. The organization’s website reads,”Extinction Rebellion calls for an immediate termination of the cruise industry due to the urgent and rapidly escalating climate and environmental crisis. Several studies show time and time again that cruises are still a significant source of pollution for air, water, and land.”
A spokesperson from the Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) states the cruise industry is making strides in its commitment to operate in an environmentally friendly manner. The cruise industry has been investing in more sustainable technologies with positive results.
Two more cruise ships are scheduled to call on the Port of Amsterdam on August 22 and August 26, 2024. Meanwhile, the environmental activists are promising more actions which includes a mass protest on August 31.