Complete Maritime Profile & Reviews of Galaxy-I

In a significant development, the emergency accommodation for asylum seekers aboard the 'Galaxy I' in the Western Port Area has received its third extension, allowing the vessel to remain docked in Amsterdam until at least October 1, 2024. The monthly expenses for accommodating asylum seekers on the ship approach a staggering three million Euros, and while the living conditions are less than favorable, authorities have opted to keep the 'Galaxy I' operational, which can house up to 1,500 individuals. Councilor Rutger Groot Wassink, responsible for reception, confirmed that the humanitarian evaluation conducted prior to each extension yielded a positive outcome. This assessment considers crucial factors such as location, safety, and available activities for the refugees. Although the overall conditions remain far from ideal, the council concluded that it is preferable to provide shelter on the ship rather than leaving individuals to sleep outdoors with inadequate resources. Since the ship's operation began, there have been no significant incidents reported at the emergency shelter. Nonetheless, concerns remain regarding the suitability of the environment for children, with limited play opportunities impacting their mental development. Health care professionals have indicated that relocating children could exacerbate their situation, leading to the decision to maintain the status quo for the time being. The municipality is actively working on a project to establish a playground, with expectations of completion by March.

The 'Galaxy', a vessel specially chartered by the Dutch government, has officially docked in Amsterdam on September 26, 2023. Designed to house up to 1,000 asylum seekers, this ship will remain at the Coen Harbour for a minimum of six months, situated between the Coen tunnel and the river cruise dock. This initiative is a crucial response to the severe overcrowding at the Ter Apel reception center in Groningen, where many asylum seekers have found themselves without adequate shelter, even sleeping on grass verges. The humanitarian organization Médicins Sans Frontières has labeled the conditions at the center as inhumane. In addition to accommodating asylum seekers, the 'Galaxy' will also provide a temporary home for refugees who have secured residency but are still awaiting permanent housing, alongside children in need. Notably, up to 10% of the available spaces will cater to individuals who have claimed asylum from countries considered safe. To ensure a supportive environment, the ship will feature educational and daycare facilities for its residents. Plans are in place to potentially increase the number of beds on board to 1,500, and to extend the docking period if necessary. As part of this effort, the Dutch government has also committed to funding an additional 2,500 flexible homes within the city. The first group of residents on the 'Galaxy' is anticipated to embark at the beginning of October. Moreover, on the same day, September 26, asylum seekers commenced boarding another cruise ship, the 'Silja Europa', which has been stationed in Velsen-Noord, close to IJmuiden.

Beginning October 1, 2022, Amsterdam will welcome the 'Galaxy', a cruise ferry repurposed to accommodate asylum seekers. This initiative will be based in the Westelijk Havengebied, conveniently located next to the Second Coentunnel. With a capacity to host 1,000 individuals, the 'Galaxy' marks Amsterdam as the second municipality to utilize a cruise ferry for this purpose, joining the ranks of other cities tackling the reception crisis by providing urgent shelter solutions. The vessel is set to dock in the Western Docklands near Westerhoofd, an area typically designated for cruise ships, superyachts, and barges. This temporary arrangement is part of a broader strategy to address the ongoing challenges related to the influx of asylum seekers in the Netherlands.