RIB Speedboat Sightseeing Cruise

We’ve come across quite a few city excursions, but few manage to combine the thrill of speed with great scenery quite like the RIB Speedboat Sightseeing Cruise in Rotterdam. This fast-paced adventure offers a chance to see the city from a different perspective—zooming past iconic landmarks on a sleek speedboat, feeling the wind and spray in your hair. If you’re craving a dash of adrenaline along with your sightseeing, this tour might just be a fun addition to your Rotterdam itinerary.

What really draws us to this experience are two things: first, the speed—traveling at up to 100 km/h over the Maas River definitely packs a punch—and second, the knowledgeable guides who share fun facts about Rotterdam’s landmarks. A possible consideration is that this tour isn’t for everyone; it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or travelers under 4 ft 3 in. Still, if you’re looking for a lively, memorable way to explore Rotterdam’s waterfront and skyline, this cruise fits the bill well.

This tour suits those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and adventure, especially if you don’t mind getting a bit wet and want to see Rotterdam from the water in a truly dynamic way. It’s also popular among families and groups who want a shared experience that’s a little different from standard boat rides. Overall, it’s a solid pick for anyone seeking a lively, fun way to explore the city’s maritime charm.

Key Points

• High-Speed Fun: Travel at up to 100 km/h for an adrenaline-pumping experience.
• Iconic Views: See Rotterdam landmarks like Euromast, SS Rotterdam, and the skyline in a new light.
• Expert Guides: Learn interesting facts about the city’s history and architecture from friendly, knowledgeable skippers.
• Flexible Duration: Tours range from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, accommodating different schedules.
• All Weather: The tour runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly, but avoid if extreme weather is forecast.
• Family-Friendly?: Not suitable for pregnant women, mobility-impaired travelers, or small children under 4 ft 3 in.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What You Can Expect

From the moment you step onto the RIB speedboat, you’re in for a lively ride. These boats, known for their agility and speed, are equipped to handle the waters of the Maas River, offering a smooth yet exhilarating journey. The meeting point, which varies depending on your booking option, is conveniently located at coordinates 51.914093017578125, 4.482423782348633—easy to find if you’re familiar with Rotterdam’s waterfront.

Once onboard, your skipper will kick things off with safety instructions—important, especially given the high speed and open-air nature of the ride. You’ll immediately feel the wind whip past as you accelerate, zooming past Rotterdam’s skyline, with the city’s buildings and bridges rushing by in a blur. The thrill is undeniable, but what makes it special is the combination of speed and scenery.

The route

The cruise takes you from the city center of Rotterdam all the way to Schiedam, a charming town known for its gin production. Along the way, you’ll pass some of Rotterdam’s most recognizable sights, including:

• Euromast: Towering over the city, this is a must-see landmark and you’ll get great views from the boat.
• Hotel New York: A historic building with a waterfront presence.
• SS Rotterdam: The impressive former steamship, now a museum and hotel, which is a favorite photo stop.
• Bridges and Old Ports: The route offers views of Rotterdam’s famous bridges and harbor areas, giving you insight into the city’s port history.

Your guide, who typically speaks both Dutch and English, shares fun facts and stories about each landmark, making the ride both entertaining and informative. Many reviews praise the guides for their passion and knowledge—one guest even mentioned how they appreciated the communication in both languages, making the experience accessible and engaging.

The thrill of speed

Beyond the landmarks, the highlight is undoubtedly the speed. Riding at such velocity over water is exhilarating, especially when the boat cuts through the waves with power. You’ll feel the spray and the wind, turning what could be a standard sightseeing boat into a rollercoaster on water.

Travelers like Martin from the UK have raved about the adrenaline and the stops to learn about the docks and vessels, noting that safety was a priority despite the thrill. Shiva from Germany called the ride “amazing,” praising the passion of the guide, and Greg from the Netherlands highlighted how knowledgeable Jaap, the guide, made the experience both fun and educational.

Stops and commentary

The cruise isn’t just about speed; it’s also about learning. The boat makes some stops in the harbor where the skipper provides additional commentary about the area, the vessels, and the history of Rotterdam’s port. These moments break up the high-speed sections and allow you to soak in the scenery at a more relaxed pace.

As Laura from the Netherlands expressed, “Beautiful experience on the Maas, nice speed and lovely boats.” The mix of fast rides and informative stops makes for a well-rounded experience.

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Practicalities and value

The duration of the cruise can vary from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, giving you flexibility based on your schedule and interest. Pricing is reasonable considering the thrill and access to iconic sights, and many reviews note the good value for money. The tours are run by RIB-Experience, which emphasizes safety, professionalism, and customer care—something that shows in the positive reviews and high ratings.

You’ll want to bring comfortable shoes—water-resistant clothing is also advisable, especially since the ride is outdoors and weather can change. The tour takes place rain or shine, except in cases of extreme weather, so check the forecast before booking. The small group setting adds a friendly, personalized touch, allowing you to ask questions and engage directly with the skipper.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This speedboat tour is ideal for those who crave a bit of excitement during their city exploration. If you like the idea of combining sightseeing with high-speed adventure, this trip delivers. It’s especially popular among younger travelers, families with older children (over 4 ft 3 in), and anyone wanting a memorable experience that’s more than just a boat ride.

It’s not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, or small children, so plan accordingly. Also, keep in mind the weather—while it runs rain or shine, very poor conditions might lead to delays or cancellations. The flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, add peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

The RIB Speedboat Sightseeing Cruise offers a refreshing take on Rotterdam sightseeing. It balances adrenaline with stunning views and engaging commentary, making it a memorable way to explore the city’s waterways. The high-speed ride is a highlight, especially for anyone hungry for a thrill, but the informative stops and friendly guides keep the experience grounded and enjoyable.

If you’re after an active, fun, and slightly unconventional city tour, this cruise is definitely worth considering. It’s particularly well-suited for visitors who appreciate a mix of adventure and education, or those simply looking to tick off a unique highlight in Rotterdam.

For a small investment in fun and excitement, you’ll get a perspective of Rotterdam few other tours can offer—fast, fresh, and full of character.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for those over 4 ft 3 in, and not recommended for very young children due to the high speed and open water. Families with older kids have enjoyed it, especially if they’re comfortable with speed and outdoor rides.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes are a must. You might also want to bring water-resistant clothing or a jacket, especially if the weather looks changeable.

Does the tour run rain or shine?
Yes, the tour takes place rain or shine, unless there are extreme weather conditions. It’s a good idea to check the forecast and dress accordingly.

How long does the tour last?
The duration varies between 30 minutes and 1.5 hours, depending on the option you select. Check availability for specific times.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll get views of Euromast, Hotel New York, SS Rotterdam, and Rotterdam’s skyline, along with various bridges and port areas. The boat also makes stops with commentary along the way.

Is safety a concern?
Not at all. The guides emphasize safety, and the boats are designed for stability and speed. You’ll receive safety instructions before departure, and life jackets are available if needed.

If you love a good splash of adventure with your city sightseeing, and don’t mind a little wind in your hair, this Rotterdam speedboat tour could become a highlight of your trip. Just remember to book in advance, dress appropriately, and get ready for a wild, fun ride on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: