Surf in the Heart of Rotterdam
Rotterdam, known for its cutting-edge architecture and innovative character, has become a showcase for original urban projects. One of the most unusual examples is RIF010, a wave pool right in the city centre where you can go surfing without leaving Rotterdam. This unique venue combines sport, leisure and urban life in a very unexpected setting.
The origins and inspiration behind RIF010
RIF010 officially opened on 6 July 2024 and has become one of the most original experiences you can find among the things to see and do in Rotterdam.
The idea came from Edwin van Viegen, who wanted to bring surfing into the heart of the city and create a place where sport, leisure and urban life could come together. After years of development, the project transformed part of the Steigersgracht into an urban surfing pool.
How the RIF010 wave pool works
RIF010 is located right in the centre of Rotterdam and uses a wave-generation system that can adapt the surfing experience to different skill levels.
The pool generates waves approximately 1 to 1.6 metres high. Different settings are available for beginners, intermediate surfers and more experienced riders.
During a full session, a new wave is generated approximately every seven seconds and, according to RIF010, even when a session is fully booked, a surfer can enjoy an average of between 11 and 13 waves.
One of the most surprising things about RIF010 is its surroundings. While you are in the water, you can see some of the best-known buildings in central Rotterdam, and you are only a short distance from the Markthal, Blaak and the Cube Houses.
Activities at RIF010
Although surfing is the main attraction, RIF010 offers several different ways to enjoy the water.
Urban surfing: sessions are available for different ability levels, from people getting on a surfboard for the first time to experienced surfers.
Surf lessons: beginners can book lessons with instructors to learn the basic techniques before starting to surf independently.
Bodyboarding: you can also enjoy the waves lying down or kneeling on a bodyboard.
SUP and canoeing: if you prefer something more relaxing, you can rent a stand-up paddleboard or canoe and explore Rotterdam’s canals from the water.
Events and competitions: RIF010 also hosts surfing activities and events, including the Rotterdam Surf Open.
Can you surf at RIF010 in winter?
The water in the RIF010 pool is not heated. During the warmer months, the temperature is suitable for surfing, but in spring and during colder periods a winter wetsuit is recommended, together with a hood or neoprene boots if necessary.
The schedule of surfing sessions can vary depending on the season. For this reason, it is always advisable to check the official RIF010 calendar before planning your visit.
Equipment rental
You do not need to travel to Rotterdam with your own surfboard. RIF010 has equipment available for its different activities, and depending on the session you book, surfboards, wetsuits and other necessary equipment can be used or rented on site.
Location and how to get to RIF010
RIF010 is located right in the centre of Rotterdam, just a few minutes’ walk from Blaak station. It is easy to reach using public transport in Rotterdam, by bicycle or on foot from most parts of the city centre.
Address: Steiger 2, 3011 GT Rotterdam.
Opening hours and prices can vary depending on the season and type of session. You can check the latest schedule, book activities and see current prices on the official RIF010 website.
RIF010 is much more than just a wave pool. It is a completely different way of using the canals in central Rotterdam and one of the most original activities to have appeared in the city in recent years.
Its location also makes it easy to combine a surfing session with a visit to the Markthal, the Cube Houses, Oudehaven and other attractions in central Rotterdam.
Urban surfing in other cities
RIF010 is part of an international trend that is bringing surfing to places far from the sea. Urban surfing spots and artificial wave pools can now be found in several European cities and other parts of the world.
Munich, Germany – Eisbach: a famous river wave in the Englischer Garten where surfers can be seen riding waves right in the heart of the city.
Bristol, United Kingdom – The Wave: a large surfing complex with artificial waves designed for different ability levels.
Zurich, Switzerland: the city has also hosted urban surfing facilities that make it possible to enjoy the sport far from the sea.
What makes RIF010 particularly unusual, however, is its location right in the centre of Rotterdam, surrounded by streets, buildings, shops and some of the city’s main tourist attractions.