The Pollux — Floating Café and Restaurant with view of the IJ

Ask as many older Amsterdammers as you meet, “whatever happened to the ‘Pollux,'” and they’ll tell you two things:

1. I remember it used to be anchored somewhere near Central Station, and
2. I sure don’t know what happened to it

Indeed, the fate of the Pollux appears to be a well-kept secret. And that’s a shame, because the Pollux is still — or, rather — again located near Amsterdam Central Station.

Better yet, this beautiful ship currently serves as a café and restaurant, providing a unique dining experience along with fantastic views of the busy IJ harbor.

From 1940 through 1989, the Pollux was located near the Maritime Museum (and for a while even closer to Central Station). During that time it was used as a maritime training vessel.

In 1989 it was towed to the harbor of IJmuiden, where wind and weather had free reign of the ship. In 2003 the ship was sold, and over the next three years the Pollux was faithfully restored.

In September, 2006, the Pollux re-opened — this time as a café and restaurant.

The ship is anchored in the Maritime Quarter near the former NDSM Wharf in Amsterdam-North.

The easiest way to reach the Pollux from downtown Amsterdam is to take the free ferry at the back of Amsterdam Central Station. Take the small ferry all the way at the left of the dock. Look for the sign that says “NDSM.”

The trip — itself a treat, especially when the weather is nice — takes about 10 minutes. Upon arrival, simply make your way to the yellow-toned 3-master — right across from a huge eyesore known as the Amstel Botel (which, while an ugly duckling on the outside, is actually a great place to stay)

Weather permitting, having a drink or lunch on deck is a fantastic experience. You can watch the hustle and bustle of the busy harbor. Freight ships, pleasure craft, and even cruise ships sail by.

The restaurant located in the deck-house provides space for up to 50 people. It features an international a la carte menu, as well as three- or four course menus.

Aside from the deckhouse, the bark also has 4 unique rooms that together can accommodate up to 250 guests. These rooms are available for parties or business presentations.

Prices for anything from a simple lunch to a full dinner are very reasonable. Food and drinks are of high quality. The service is friendly and efficient.

We highly recommend a visit to the Pollux as a unique dining experience during your stay in Amsterdam.

Address, Map and Information

The Pollux
NDSM Pier 2
1033 RE Amsterdam

See Also

More rugged than romantic: Learning the seafarers’ ways, Stars and Stripes, Aug. 2, 1961

The Dutch training ship Pollux is a dreamboat for kids, but the youngsters who sign aboard this sailing bark each year come to learn that the sea is not for dreamers.

For although the Pollux never weighs its anchor off Amsterdam, its 66 young trainees soon learn that the life of a seafarer is more rugged than romantic.

Purpose of the Pollux is to show Holland’s 14- to 16-year-old would-be mariners how to be sailors. When they graduate at the end of a year they qualify as deck boys in The Netherlands’ merchant marine.

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