Amsterdam is setting course for zero-emission canals

Published on Tuesday, February 11News

Do you have a boat in Amsterdam? Then pay attention. From April 1, 2025, the center area will become an emission-free zone for pleasure craft.

This means quiet and clean sailing on electricity, hydrogen or muscle power. An exception applies to the most important through shipping routes.

What is the emission-free zone?
The emission-free zone applies to pleasure craft. These are vessels that are used for non-commercial recreation (so not sailing houseboats). From April 1, 2025, only vessels with an electric, hydrogen or manual propulsion may enter the zone. Hybrid boats are welcome, as long as they sail emission-free.
The entire central area of ​​Amsterdam falls under the emission-free zone. This means the area within and including the Singelgracht.

Why an emission-free zone?
The dirty air in the city is unhealthy. That is why the municipality is working to improve air quality. Emission-free zones contribute to this. We also reduce CO₂ emissions and noise pollution in the city by switching to emission-free transport.

More information about exceptions, transitional arrangements, etc. on the website of the municipality of Amsterdam