Just 11 cruise ships have docked in the Netherlands this year, but 282 have been timetabled to do so, NOS reported on Thursday.

Cruise ship terminals in Amsterdam, IJmuiden and Rotterdam have all told the broadcaster they are not expecting any more ships this year, as the coronavirus pandemic puts a hold on sea voyages.

All 11 cruise ships which did make it moored in Rotterdam.

The cruise industry says each ship brings with it economic benefits to the tune of around €1m, in terms of services and tourism and Cruise Port Rotterdam has been forced to apply for government help to pay staff, NOS said.

In addition, the lack of cruise ships in Amsterdam will cost the city some €600,000 in lost income from the €8 local tourist tax it introduced for passengers last year.

A number of cruise ships are currently anchored at sea off the Dutch coast waiting for the sector to start up again. All are subject to strict coronavirus regulations and have skeleton crews on board.