By
Cherie Rowlands |
The IJmond port in IJmuiden can process twice the number of passengers following the opening of KVSA’s Felison Cruise Terminal, which took place on 4 May.
Built in just four months, the modern, steel North Sea Canal terminal has 1,600 m2 for facilitating around 2,000 passengers and can also accommodate two ships at the same time.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, KVSA managing director Frans Baud said: “The terminal can even handle two ships simultaneously should that situation arise. In addition, the Volendam and Monnickendam wharfs are approximately 150 metres longer than the existing cruise wharf.”
He added: “The IJmond port is located in front of the floodgates which translates to time gain for passengers headed for Amsterdam or Schiphol. I think we can double our business in coming years and I eagerly await the day IJmuiden will be processing four luxury cruise ships at once."
The fast build time, Mr Baud emphasised, was thanks to close cooperation with the Velsen municipality, which ensured efficient handling of required procedures and proper navigation of local legislation.
Other speakers attending the terminal opening included Velsen municipality mayor Franc Weerwind and CEO of MSC Cruises Pierfrancesco Vago. Aruba Tourism Minister Otmar Enrique Oduber, unveiled the new terminal’s logo.
MSC Opera was the first ship to dock at the new terminal and along with MSC Lirica, will be making IJmuiden the Dutch port of call. The new wharfs are suitable for both ships and MSC has booked the two cruise liners for most of this season's 40 scheduled departures.