RDM Onderzeebootloods
The RDM Submarine Wharf is an industrial event venue in the Port of Rotterdam, housed in a former warehouse of the Rotterdamsche Droogdok Maatschappij. With a surface area of over 4,280 m², ceilings reaching nearly 20 meters high, and space for up to 5,000 visitors, it is one of the most impressive and versatile event venues in the Netherlands.
From submarine construction to event hotspot
The RDM Submarine Shed is part of the RDM site in Heijplaat, the former home base of the Rotterdamsche Droogdok Maatschappij. At this historic shipyard, large ships for the Holland-America Line were once built, including the SS Rotterdam, and Dutch naval vessels were repaired and maintained. After a thorough renovation, the shed has retained its raw, industrial character: rusty spots, heavy steel beams, and pipes are still visible. The old steel door through which submarines were once launched has been replaced by a 250 m² glass window that connects the event directly to the vibrant Port of Rotterdam.
Three halls, maximum flexibility
The Submarine Wharf consists of three halls available for hire, with a combined surface area of approximately 4,280 m². Hall East (1,510 m²) accommodates 400 people in a theatre setup or 1,000 in a party setup. Hall Middle Front (1,230 m²) is suitable for 1,250 people in a theatre setup, 600 for dinner, or 150 for a party. Hall Middle Rear (1,530 m²) is the largest hall and accommodates 1,750 people in a party setup, 800 for dinner, or 800 in a theatre setup. The venue offers a fully flexible layout and features modern facilities, free on-site parking, and accessibility by ship via the Aqualiner from the Erasmus Bridge.
Ideal for conferences, gala dinners, and large-scale events
The Submarine Wharf is ideally suited for conferences seeking a powerful presence, with space for plenary sessions, breakout zones, and demonstration areas. However, the venue also offers an unforgettable setting for gala dinners, staff parties, product launches, anniversaries, and cultural events, where industrial heritage meets modern possibilities.
