Read Authentic Ratings for the Silja-Europa

Scheduled to set sail from Velsen-North in IJmuiden around July 1, 2023, the 'Silja Europa' has been a temporary home for many asylum seekers. Out of the initial 1,000 individuals who found shelter aboard, 264 will remain as they transition to nearby emergency accommodations. These asylum seekers are expected to return to Velsen-Noord by late August or September, where they will be housed on a smaller vessel docked at the VOB quay. Since September 21, 2022, the 'Silja Europa' has been stationary with an extended stay far beyond the initially planned departure of March 1. Most of the previous residents have already been relocated to various reception centers across the Netherlands. The remaining 264 individuals have established connections in the area, with many children attending schools in towns like Castricum and Heemskerk, making their temporary relocation crucial. The exact timing of the 'Silja Europa's departure is yet to be determined, as it hinges on several factors, including favorable weather conditions for a smooth mooring process. Following its departure, the vessel will head to Rotterdam, where it will serve as a transfer point for status holders.

The asylum reception vessel, 'Silja Europa', will continue its operations in Velsen-North for an additional six weeks, as confirmed during a council meeting on March 23, 2023. The ship, which currently accommodates around 1,000 asylum seekers, will begin its transition on April 23, allowing only roughly 220 individuals on board. The council has devised a plan to facilitate the reception of over 200 asylum seekers connected to the local area, but this will require the swift relocation of residents to a smaller river cruise vessel. Meanwhile, preparations to ensure that potential new locations in IJmuiden, Velsen-North, or Zijkanaal C are ready remain ongoing. After April 23, only school-aged children and their families—totaling around 170 individuals—along with approximately 50 interns residing on the 'Silja Europa' will be permitted to stay aboard, while the rest of the current residents must find new accommodation elsewhere in the Netherlands.

On September 21, the 'Silja Europa' made its arrival at IJmuiden, docking in Velsen-Noord to provide temporary housing for up to 1,000 asylum seekers until February. The vessel departed from Tallinn on September 17, making its way through the IJmuiden sea lock between 6:00 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. An hour later, the ship reached the VOB quay, ready to be prepared for its new role. The Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA) is set to take around three to five days to ensure the ship and quay are adequately prepared for incoming residents. As of now, the schedule for when the first asylum seekers will arrive in Velsen-Noord remains uncertain. Stay tuned for more updates, along with accompanying photos and videos available at RTV Seaport.