Tropicana Rotterdam
THE ABANDONED POOL IN THE NETHERLANDS
Tropicana was a subtropical swimming paradise on the Maasboulevard in the Dutch city of Rotterdam. It was built in 1988 on behalf of
Center Parcs as a recreational location. Eventually, it was sold and abandoned in 2007. In 2014 the building was given a new purpose. Tropicana was occupied by a number of entrepreneurs that focus on the circular economy.
In 1986, a new plan started in Rotterdam. It was called Tropicana. Architect John Fahmel designed the building. Construction took about one year. Tropicana opened on 14 July 1988. Mayor Bram Peper and Anton Geesink were there for the opening.
The idea came from Piet Derksen, the owner of Center Parcs. He wanted a tropical swimming paradise where people could visit for one day. No hotel stay was needed. At the opening, Tropicana was the largest swimming pool of Center Parcs.
Tropical atmosphere
Tropicana had many attractions. There were rapids, whitewater courses, slides, jacuzzis, and even an outdoor pool. There was also a wave pool, an ice pool, and a children’s pool. Visitors could enjoy shops, cafés, and restaurants in a tropical atmosphere. A special feature was the revolving restaurant above the entrance.
In the 1990s, problems started. Some visitors caused trouble, and many people stayed away. The number of guests dropped. Maintenance also became a issue. In 2007, inspectors found many safety issues. The owners were fined if they did not fix them.
To attract more visitors, a disco opened. But it did not help enough. On 29 August 2010, Tropicana closed its doors. In 2011, the company went bankrupt.
Mushrooms and start-ups
Since 2014, new life has come to Tropicana. RotterZwam, a mushroom farm, started in the cellars. Oyster mushrooms are grown on coffee waste. The Aloha Bar opened in the old swimming area.
In 2015, plans to reopen Tropicana as a swimming pool failed. Later that year, BlueCity bought the building. Today, BlueCity is a center for sustainable businesses and start-ups.
Tropicana shows the rise, fall, and rebirth of an iconic Rotterdam building. It remains a famous place for urban explorers and photographers. Nature and creativity are now taking over what was once a tropical paradise. I took these photos during my visit to the pool in 2013 and 2025. Follow this link for more abandoned pools.
