It will be no time before the Netherlands is experiencing hot summer days again and everyone starts looking for somewhere to take a dip to cool off. In tune with this, the city of Amsterdam has announced that the centre will soon have its first official swimming spot just in time for the swimming season. 

New swimming location in the centre of Amsterdam

The Binnenhaven on the Marineterrein has long been a favourite spot for Amsterdammers to cool off during heat waves. While the river port was previously known as a “wild swimming” spot, the municipality promises that from April it will be an official swimming location - the first in the centre of Amsterdam.

After the spot receives its official status in spring, anyone can take a plunge throughout the year. This will be the 10th official open-water swimming location in Amsterdam, with a possible 11th being considered at a location on the Vecht in Weesp.  

Check water quality before swimming in Dutch cities

While there have been adjustments to improve the standard of the location so that it can receive the status of a swimming spot, including measuring the quality of the water and filling holes in the quay walls and floor, the municipality reminds residents that “swimming remains at your own risk”. 

According to a report under the Water Framework Directive, none of the Netherlands’ 745 lakes, rivers and canals are classified as having “good” water quality. The European Commission blames this on the country’s dense population, land use, agricultural and economic activities, and pollution. This is why it is a good idea to check the water quality of any open water swimming spot before diving in - you can do this on the zwemwater website. Alternatively, you could visit one of Amsterdam's swimming pools. 

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