Splash Tours Rotterdam is one of the most unique attractions in the Netherlands and a perfect shore excursion for cruise passengers visiting Rotterdam.
The famous yellow amphibious bus takes visitors on a guided sightseeing tour through the city before making a spectacular splash into the River Maas and continuing as a boat.
From 1 July, the Euromast reopens to visitors, making it possible once again to combine Splash Tours with Rotterdam’s most famous observation tower.
Because both attractions are located close together and can easily be reached from the cruise terminals, this excursion is ideal for visitors with limited time ashore.
Quick Information
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Parkhaven Rotterdam |
| Travel Time | 10–30 minutes from cruise terminals |
| Best Transport | Water Taxi, Metro, Tram |
| Suitable For | Sea Cruises & River Cruises |
| Time Needed | 3–4 hours |
| Family Friendly | Yes |
| Wheelchair Accessible | Mostly accessible |
| Nearby Attraction | Euromast (reopens 1 July) |
| Official Website | Splash Tours Rotterdam |
Why Cruise Passengers Love This Excursion
Unique land and water experience
Easy to reach from both cruise terminals
Great introduction to Rotterdam
Excellent photo opportunities
Suitable for all ages
Can be combined with the Euromast
Spectacular views of the skyline
Perfect for visitors with limited time
One of Rotterdam’s most famous attractions
How to Get There
From Rotterdam Cruise Terminal (Sea Cruises)
Most sea cruise ships dock at the Holland Amerikakade on the Wilhelminapier.
Option 1 – Water Taxi (Recommended)
The most scenic and fastest way to reach Splash Tours is by Water Taxi.
Step-by-step:
Walk from the cruise terminal towards Hotel New York
The Water Taxi stop is located next to Hotel New York
Take a Water Taxi to Parkhaven / Euromast
Walk a few minutes to Splash Tours
Travel time is approximately 10 minutes.
During the journey you will enjoy views of:
Erasmus Bridge
Rotterdam Skyline
River Maas
Modern waterfront developments
The Port of Rotterdam waterfront
For many cruise passengers, the Water Taxi itself becomes part of the excursion experience.
Option 2 – Public Transport
Walk to Wilhelminaplein Metro Station
Take Metro D or E
Transfer to Tram 8
Exit at Parkhaven
Walk to Splash Tours
Travel time is approximately 20–30 minutes.
From River Cruise Ships
River cruise ships docking at Leuvehaven or Boompjes are located relatively close to Splash Tours.
Visitors can reach the attraction by:
Walking
Metro
Tram
Water Taxi
The Water Taxi is the fastest and most scenic option.
Public Transport Tips
Use OVpay with your contactless bank card or phone
Remember to check in and check out
RET public transport is modern and easy to use
RET day tickets are available
Water Taxis are faster but more expensive
Useful transport companies:
RET Rotterdam
Rotterdam Water Taxi
What to See and Do
Splash Tours Rotterdam
The highlight of this excursion is the famous amphibious bus.
Visitors enjoy:
Guided city tour
Rotterdam architecture
Harbour views
Interactive commentary
The spectacular splash into the River Maas
Waterborne sightseeing
The complete tour lasts approximately 60 minutes.
Euromast (Reopening 1 July)
From 1 July, visitors can once again enjoy the Euromast after its temporary closure.
Highlights include:
Panoramic city views
Observation deck
Euroscoop rotating elevator
Port of Rotterdam views
Excellent photography opportunities
On clear days visitors can see for many kilometres across the Netherlands.
The Euromast is located directly next to Splash Tours, making it easy to combine both attractions during a cruise stop.
Water Taxi Experience
For many cruise passengers the Water Taxi becomes an attraction itself.
The ride offers:
Fast transport
Unique harbour views
Skyline photography opportunities
A memorable Rotterdam experience
Best Photo Spots
Splash Tours splash point
Euromast observation deck
Erasmus Bridge
River Maas waterfront
Parkhaven
Rotterdam Skyline
Water Taxi on the Maas
Wilhelminapier waterfront
Food and Drinks
The Euromast area offers several restaurants and cafés.
Recommended experiences:
Dutch pancakes
Coffee with skyline views
Dutch apple pie
Waterside terraces
International cuisine
Snacks and refreshments near Parkhaven
Suggested Time Schedule
| Time | Activity |
| 09:00 | Leave cruise terminal |
| 09:15 | Water Taxi from Hotel New York |
| 09:30 | Splash Tours Rotterdam |
| 10:45 | Explore Parkhaven |
| 11:00 | Visit Euromast |
| 12:30 | Lunch near Euromast |
| 13:30 | Water Taxi back to Wilhelminapier |
| 14:00 | Back at the ship |
Important Tips for Cruise Passengers
Book Splash Tours tickets in advance
The Euromast reopens on 1 July and is expected to be popular during the summer season
Allow sufficient time to return to your ship
Bring a camera for skyline photographs
Water Taxi services may have waiting times during busy periods
Wear comfortable walking shoes
Rotterdam weather can change quickly
Check attraction opening times before your visit
Is This Excursion Worth It?
Yes. Splash Tours is one of Rotterdam’s most unique attractions and provides an excellent introduction to the city.
With the Euromast reopening on 1 July, cruise passengers can once again combine three classic Rotterdam experiences in a single excursion:
- Water Taxi
- Splash Tours
- Euromast
Together they offer views of Rotterdam from the streets, the water and from above, all within a few hours of your cruise ship.
FAQ – Splash Tours Rotterdam for Cruise Passengers
Where does the Water Taxi depart from near the cruise terminal?
The nearest Water Taxi stop for sea cruise passengers is located next to Hotel New York on the Wilhelminapier.
When does the Euromast reopen?
The Euromast reopens to visitors on 1 July.
Can I combine Splash Tours with the Euromast?
Yes. The Euromast is located directly next to Splash Tours and is one of the most popular combinations.
Is Splash Tours suitable for children?
Yes. It is one of Rotterdam’s most family-friendly attractions.
Is booking in advance recommended?
Yes. Tours can sell out quickly during the summer cruise season.
Is the Water Taxi worth taking?
Absolutely. Many visitors consider the Water Taxi one of the highlights of their day in Rotterdam.