VIP watertaxi

Architecture Cruise

Cruise information

This trip introduces you to Amsterdam"s loveliest and most interesting contemporary architecture. On board of our comfortable water taxi, our experienced guide will take you through the Eastern Docklands, providing detailed background information.

From the end of the nineteenth century to 1970 this was a bustling area. With the excavation of the North Sea canal, the focus of activities gradually shifted westward. In 1975 the Municipality decided to turn the Eastern Docklands into a residential area, consisting mainly of subsidized housing. This policy was revised in 1986. During your tour you will see highly varied architecture on Java Island, harking back to the 17th century canal houses characteristic of the city"s old quarter. As it happens, the island itself is carved up by four new canals. You will see how the style of the Jan Schaeffer Bridge is attuned to that of the Zwijger, a massive cold store facility. And on KNSM island the huge residential blocks have a hint of the exotic. It is fascinating to see how various old dockyard buildings blend in with the imposing new architecture. Weather permitting, you will be given the opportunity to walk around and see the island for yourself.