Last Amphibious Car Parade in Amsterdam Marks End of Era

The amphibious car parade in Amsterdam held its final event due to new emission-free regulations for the city's waterways starting in 2025. The annual event, attracting around 100 participants this year, will continue in other locations, with plans to move the parade to Friesland, Netherlands, and Belgium in the coming years.

A colourful parade of amphibious cars glided through Amsterdam's canals on Thursday, marking the last time the event will be held in the city until lighter batteries are developed.

Starting in 2025, Amsterdam's waterways will only allow emission-free vehicles, a restriction that current amphibious cars can't meet due to the weight of electric batteries. Organizer Roy Bolks noted, "This year is the last time because Amsterdam will introduce some new rules."

The multi-day event began on Monday and took participants from Amsterdam to Monnickendam and Utrecht before concluding on Thursday. Although typically drawing around 80 participants, this year's parade featured 100 amphibious car enthusiasts. Bolks confirmed that the event will continue elsewhere, saying it will be held in Friesland in a few years and in Belgium next year near Ghent.