> If you arrive by boat, you must use public transport (or good old feet) to get around. I understand that it is a a surge in demand, but I am putting money in to the local economy.

Public transport is usually run at a loss, and at least partly funded with local taxes. Same for public museums, although I don't know about the Netherlands.

I think the amount of pollution per passenger is really disproportionately high for cruise ships, and I'm afraid nothing can be really done about it. It's just a less efficient means of transportation.

Now, living in Antwerp the pollution caused by container ships is at a whole other level though.