On Sunday, environmental activists from Extinction Rebellion took action to prevent the arrival of a cruise ship in the Port of Amsterdam. The group, known for its direct action protests, tied themselves to a lock, effectively blocking the entrance. This action follows a similar incident last week where 2,000 cruise ship passengers were evacuated by bus due to another blockade.
Extinction Rebellion is demanding an end to cruise ships in Amsterdam, citing their significant contribution to pollution. Their protest message, “Oil kills, stop cruise ships,” was spray-painted on the doors of the lock they blocked. The activists’ actions have halted the passage of the “Serenade of the Seas” cruise ship, which was scheduled to arrive in Amsterdam. An oil tanker was also prevented from entering the port due to the blockades.
The Port of Amsterdam spokeswoman, Carlijn van Essen, confirmed the incident and stated that the activists were present at two locks within the massive IJmuiden complex, located northwest of the capital.
Extinction Rebellion, previously known for large-scale civil disobedience such as blocking bridges in London, has shifted its focus to building a more inclusive grassroots movement. However, their actions continue to highlight the growing concern about the environmental impact of cruise tourism. A study by the NGO Transport and Environment found that cruise ships operating in European waters in 2022 emitted over eight million tonnes of CO2, equivalent to 50,000 flights between Paris and New York. This latest action in Amsterdam underscores the growing tension between the desire for tourism and the need to address climate change.
