The Port of Rotterdam is the largest in Europe, and the Port of Rotterdam Authority is working hard to keep it that way. The second Maasvlakte is put into use in 2013 to be able to handle the growing shipping even better. The port now consists of the Merwehaven, Waalhaven, Eemhaven, Botlek, Europoort and the Maasvlakte. Technology is an essential part of the port of Rotterdam, and the aim is to be and remain the smartest port in the world.
The largest port in the world is in Shanghai, China. The second-largest in Singapore. Until 2003 the Port of Rotterdam was the largest in the world, now in fifth place. The largest port in Shanghai is more than 30% larger in terms of total cargo throughput.
Futureland
Futureland Rotterdam information centre is in the middle of the Maasvlakte. If you stand in front of the building and look around, you can see the enormous blue cranes loading and unloading the container ships. On the other side, the oil refineries are at work. There is no better place to learn something about the port of Rotterdam. The information centre is free of charge and gives a good picture of what’s going on in the harbour. You can stand behind the steering wheel of a ship or operate a container crane without hitting anything. All information about the construction of the second Maasvlakte can be found there, and you can experience the entire construction process via a film or interactive model. With virtual reality, you can even see how the ports of the future will look.
With an audio tour, you can get even more out of your visit. Via your headphones connected to your smartphone, you will get explanations about what you see. This way, you get a clear view of what you see inside. This audio tour is free of charge and works via Futureland’s free WiFi network. The tour is available in seven languages.
Futureland Express
With a bus, you drive through the Rotterdam harbour area. In about 75 minutes you get even closer to life in the harbour. During the ride, a Futureland guide will give you a detailed explanation of what you see. This tour leaves in front of the information centre. Costs are € 8.50 for adults and € 6.95 for children from 3 to 11 years. PLEASE NOTE: for the tour on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays you will need proof of identity.
Futureland Ferry
Do you want to see the harbour from the water? Then you can take a tour boat along the quays and container terminals. Next to the information centre, the canal boat is ready for departure. You can sit inside as well as outside on the ship. So even when the sun isn’t shining, you can sail with us. A guide will tell you about everything you pass, and you can see with your own eyes how big some container ships are. There is a cruise through Maasvlakte 2 and a cruise through Maasvlakte 1 & 2. The journey takes at least 60 minutes and is sometimes adapted to certain weather conditions. A ticket costs € 10.50 for Maasvlakte 2 and if you want to see both, you pay € 12.95. Children aged 3 to 11 pay € 8.50.
