Haarlem relocates reception ships to make way for spring cruise season
Two reception ships in Haarlem-Noord will temporarily move to new berths until mid-May to accommodate visiting cruise ships. Residents on board will stay put, but local traffic may see minor disruptions due to construction work.
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Ships Relocated | MS Carissima, Rex Rheni |
| Current Location | Spaarndamseweg, Haarlem-Noord |
| Temporary Locations | Conradkade (Rex Rheni), Waarderbrug (MS Carissima) |
| Relocation Dates | 18 March 2026 (Rex Rheni), 20 March 2026 (MS Carissima) |
| Return Date | Week of 11 May 2026 |
| Reason for Relocation | Cruise ship visits, including tourists for Keukenhof in April |
| Construction Impact | Road closures in Schoterkwartier area affecting pedestrian and cycle paths |
The Municipality of Haarlem is responsible for managing public spaces, including berths for ships along its waterways. This relocation ensures that both reception facilities and tourism infrastructure operate smoothly during peak visitor seasons.
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Reception ships temporarily relocated
Until mid-May 2026, the reception ships MS Carissima and Rex Rheni will be temporarily moored at different locations in Haarlem-Noord. We are relocating the ships because many cruise ships will be visiting the region this spring.
We are temporarily moving the two reception ships from Spaarndamseweg to other locations in the city. The Rex Rheni will relocate to Conradkade on 18 March 2026. The MS Carissima will move to a berth next to the Waarderbrug on 20 March 2026.
Cruise ships
We are relocating the ships to make room for cruise ships. These vessels require the wider berths available along Spaarndamseweg. The cruise ships will bring a large number of visitors to the region. For example, many tourists will visit the Keukenhof in April.
Alternative temporary location
The berth at Conradkade for the Rex Rheni is a different temporary location than last year. This is due to construction work in the Schoterkwartier area. As a result, the pedestrian path, cycle path, and a lane have been closed. These construction activities mean that only a temporary spot is now available for the MS Carissima.
Return to Spaarndamseweg
Both reception ships will return to their usual berth at Spaarndamseweg in the week of 11 May 2026.
During the relocation and while the reception ships are moored at their temporary locations, residents will continue to live on the same ships.
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