Ghent Enforces Quieter Tourism with Electric Boats and Headphone Guides
The historic Belgian city of Ghent is taking action to preserve its charm and residents’ peace. New measures aim to significantly reduce noise pollution caused by tourism, particularly in the city’s iconic canal areas. This forms part of a broader strategy to manage the impact of the city’s 1.6 million annual overnight visitors.
The city’s latest “noise action plan” focuses on two key changes for tourist boats. First, boats are gradually switching to electric propulsion to eliminate engine noise. Second, guided tours will now be conducted using headphones for visitors, replacing loudspeakers that broadcast commentary across neighborhoods.
Addressing Resident Concerns and EU Directives
The move comes in response to repeated complaints from locals. City Alderman Filip Watteeuw highlighted the frequency of the disturbance, noting that while one tour a day might be tolerable, hearing them over 30 times daily becomes very annoying.
The policy also aligns with the EU’s Environmental Noise Directive, which requires cities to map and reduce harmful noise. Ghent’s plan sets specific limits: ambient noise should be around 55 decibels, with temporary peaks not exceeding 70 decibels.
Industry Cooperation and Additional Measures
The local tourism industry is cooperating. Robbe Dewaele of De Bootjes van Gent stated that 75% of their fleet is already electric and that new audio systems direct sound closer to passengers’ ears, allowing for lower volumes.
These boat-specific rules are part of a wider suite of measures. Ghent has also restricted large guided groups (over 60 people) from using amplified microphones in public. This follows other recent steps like tourist taxes, limits on new B&Bs, and campaigns to quiet late-night revellers.
By implementing these changes, Ghent aims to protect the quality of life for its residents while ensuring tourism remains sustainable and enjoyable for all who visit.
