Rotterdam: Pizza Cruise

If you’re looking for a way to combine sightseeing with some seriously good food in Rotterdam, the Pizza Cruise might just fit the bill. This 2-hour boat trip offers a relaxed vibe, great views, and a hearty serving of Italian classics. While it’s not a full-blown culinary tour or a sightseeing marathon, it’s an experience that balances inviting scenery with tasty eats.

What we love about this tour? First, the stunning views of Rotterdam’s impressive skyline and harbor, which are especially striking from the water. Second, the all-you-can-eat freshly made pizzas—nothing beats that feeling of unlimited pizza straight from the oven. On the flip side, a potential snag is that the tour may not be perfect if you’re expecting a top-tier fine dining experience or if gluten-free options are a must for you. This cruise is best suited for those who want a laid-back, tasty way to enjoy Rotterdam’s sights without fuss.

Whether you’re a couple after a romantic evening, a foodie looking for a fun culinary twist, or a small group wanting a different perspective on the city, this cruise offers a relaxed tasting of Rotterdam’s harbor and skyline. Let’s break down what makes this experience worth considering—and what to keep in mind before booking.

Key Points

• Stunning views of Rotterdam’s skyline and harbors from the water.
• All-you-can-eat freshly made pizzas with a variety of flavors.
• Includes antipasti starters like marinated olives, focaccia, and cold cuts.
• A light, surprising dessert to finish the meal.
• Accessible for wheelchairs, though the toilets aren’t.
• Duration of 2 hours makes it a manageable, enjoyable experience.
• No gluten-free pizzas available, so consider dietary restrictions.
• A relaxed, informal atmosphere with Italian music to match.
• Reservations are flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

Imagine sitting aboard a boat, gently rocking as Rotterdam’s impressive skyline looms in the distance. This cruise offers a fantastic vantage point to admire the city’s modern architecture and busy harbor, all while you indulge in an Italian feast. Starting with antipasti, the boat serves up marinated olives, fresh focaccia with tomato dip, and a selection of Italian cold cuts—simple, flavorful, and perfect for snacking as you settle in.

The highlight, of course, is the all-you-can-eat pizza. You’ll find classics like Margherita and Quattro Formaggi, alongside more adventurous options such as Mediterranea, Tonno, Pollo, Pepperoni, and Vegan. The pizzas are freshly baked and delivered straight from the oven, which makes for a satisfying, comforting experience. Whether you’re a meat-eater or a vegan, the variety ensures most will find something to love. The unlimited aspect means you can enjoy as many slices as you like—an inviting feature for hungry travelers.

Throughout the cruise, relaxing Italian tunes set a cozy mood, transporting you momentarily from Rotterdam’s busy port to a Mediterranean piazza. To toast the evening, you can order an Aperol Spritz or a glass of limoncello, adding to the authentic Italian vibe. The cruise ends with a surprise dessert—a light and sweet way to finish the meal, though the specifics aren’t detailed.

The Journey and the Views

Rotterdam’s skyline from the water is a photographer’s playground. Skyscrapers like De Rotterdam and the Euromast are particularly eye-catching. The cruise takes you through the city’s impressive harbors, giving a different perspective than walking around town. It’s a great way to appreciate how Rotterdam’s port is an engineering marvel, all while sitting comfortably and enjoying some good food.

The boat itself, ‘De Brandaris,’ is conveniently located next to the Chinese Boat, making it easy to find. The experience is available in multiple languages—Dutch, German, and English—and is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal.

The Food and Its Value

The antipasti set the tone well—marinated olives and fresh focaccia are crowd-pleasers, and the charcuterie adds a touch of authenticity. The all-you-can-eat pizza is really the star of the show. For a fixed price, you get unlimited servings of freshly baked pizzas, which makes it quite a bargain if you’re a pizza lover. The variety caters to different tastes, and the pizza flavors like Vegan and Pollo (halal) show some thoughtfulness toward diverse dietary preferences. However, be aware that gluten-free options are not available, which could be a downside for gluten-intolerant guests.

The dessert, although a mystery, wraps things up nicely. It’s described as a “surprising” finish—likely light and definitely sweet, ideal after the hearty pizza. But some reviews mention that the pizzas can arrive cold and the dessert might seem hastily prepared, which is worth noting if you’re expecting perfection.

The Review Spectrum

One guest from Switzerland expressed disappointment, citing poor service—no assigned table, missing the aperitivo, and cold pizza. This highlights that service can vary, and if you’re expecting a seamless, high-end experience, this might not always deliver. On the flip side, a guest from the Netherlands called it a “super leuke belevenis” with “lekker pizzas” and very friendly staff, emphasizing that the vibe can be quite enjoyable when things run smoothly.

This mixed feedback suggests that while the experience can be enjoyable, it might depend on the day and the crew. It’s worth considering that the main draw is the combination of relaxed harbor views and unlimited pizza rather than a luxury dinner.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is perfect for those who want a relaxed, fun evening combining sightseeing with hearty Italian comfort food. It’s ideal if you love pizza or want to enjoy Rotterdam from a different perspective without a long, formal tour. It might appeal to couples, small groups of friends, or even casual travelers looking to tick a unique activity off their list.

However, if you have strict dietary needs like gluten intolerance or are looking for a fine dining experience, this might not meet your expectations. Also, be prepared for the possibility of waiting for service or receiving pizzas that aren’t piping hot every time.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a laid-back, enjoyable way to see Rotterdam’s harbor and skyline, paired with unlimited pizza and antipasti, this cruise offers a genuinely fun experience. The views from the water are striking, and the relaxed Italian ambiance makes it a cozy escape from the usual city tours.

You’ll love the variety of freshly baked pizzas and the chance to indulge without worrying about extra costs—just bring your appetite. The availability of different languages and wheelchair accessibility make it accessible for many travelers. Just keep in mind that service quality might vary, and gluten-free diners should consider alternative options.

The Rotterdam Pizza Cruise is a solid choice for anyone wanting a casual, tasty outing in the city, especially if you’re a pizza fan or looking for a different way to explore Rotterdam’s waters.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for children?
The tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-friendly, but children who enjoy pizza and scenic boat rides could find it enjoyable. Just note that the atmosphere is relaxed and mainly geared toward adult guests.

Are there gluten-free pizzas available?
No, the tour does not offer gluten-free options, so those with gluten intolerance should plan accordingly.

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the boat ‘De Brandaris’ is wheelchair accessible, but the toilets are not.

What is included in the price?
You get antipasti starters, unlimited freshly made pizzas, and a surprising dessert. Beverages like Aperol Spritz or limoncello are available for an extra charge.

How long does the cruise last?
The experience lasts about 2 hours, which is enough time to enjoy the views and the food without it feeling too long.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

What flavors of pizza are available?
Options include Margherita, Quattro Formaggi, Mediterranea, Tonno, Pollo (halal), Pepperoni, and Vegan.

Is the experience suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, vegan options are available, and many pizzas can cater to vegetarians. The Vegan pizza is explicitly listed among the choices.

What do reviews say about the food quality?
Most reviews mention that the pizzas are freshly baked and tasty, though some note the pizzas can arrive cold or that service can be inconsistent.

Where exactly is the meeting point?
The boat is located next to the Chinese Boat at the coordinates 51.904258728027344, 4.466130256652832.

If you’re in Rotterdam and want to combine sightseeing with some delicious Italian comfort food, the Pizza Cruise offers a relaxing, tasty way to enjoy the city’s waters and skyline. Just go in with reasonable expectations regarding service and dietary restrictions, and you’re likely to have a fun outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: