A development group has launched a proposal for a new wave pool in Buiksloterham, Amsterdam. The surf lagoon would sit in the Johan van Hasseltkanaal, a canal just north of the city center. Surf Loch will power the waves, as at RiF010 in nearby Rotterdam.
Surf District Integrated into Urban Redevelopment
The developers plan to embed the Amsterdam Surf District into a green and innovative area. Buiksloterham is shifting from an industrial zone to a mixed-use neighborhood area. In 2020, the Municipal Council approved the Buiksloterham Investment Note (HIB 2020). That plan includes a waterfront program with space for hospitality and public facilities.
Alongside well-known attractions like the Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, and Amsterdam’s coffee houses, North Amsterdam is emerging as a new destination for visitors.
Travel blogger Rachel IRL notes, “Those looking to explore a more unique side to Amsterdam should take the ferry from right behind Centraal station up to Amsterdam Noord. The area has seen a ton of development over the past few years, and it’s gone from an industrial district to a modern, hipster cultural center.”
Amsterdam Wave Pool Aims for Accessible Surfing for All
Developers aim to create an open ecological recreation zone. They will combine the wave pool with sustainable real estate, surf-themed homes, a Surf Academy, office spaces, board-shaping facilities, and a surf shop.
“Our goal is to make surfing accessible to as many Amsterdammers as possible, regardless of background or budget,” said Jaap Kersten, a project representative. “We believe that everyone deserves the chance to experience that first wave.”
Stakeholders and Companies Involved
The project includes contributions from New Amsterdam Surf Association, Space and Matter, Surfana, Skatecafé, Surfloch, and Ripstar.
Environmental Remediation and Urban Value
The Johan van Hasseltkanaal currently stores slightly polluted soil. Developers claim the wave pool will safely enclose this material. They also link the wave pool to Lot 18, suggesting it will raise property values and provide shared space for residents and visitors.
Wave Technology Specifications
The planned wave pool will use a pneumatic wave system. Organizers selected Surfloch after comparing several artificial wave technologies. It will cover 152 by 36 meters. A machine room will sit beneath a new bridge over the canal. The pool will allow up to 56 surfers at once. It will produce waves up to 2.2 meters high, with left- and right-breaking pointbreaks for varying skill levels.
Sustainability Measures Integrated Into Design
The development prioritizes sustainability. Energy for the wave pool will come from a shared system with Lot 18. The design includes solar panels, a neighborhood battery, thermal energy reuse from the canal and wastewater, and a joint WKO system. An electricity contract is also in progress to support these efforts.
Here’s what to expect in Amsterdam – a visual guide
WavePoolMag received a Power Point with renders and information. We’ve assembled three of those images below. You can also check out the WavePoolMag video guide to RiF010, the Surf Loch wave pool in Rotterdam. Holland will now have two Surf Loch wave pools.
