HIDDEN GEMS

1 HET SCHEEPVAARTMUSEUM

This is the National Maritime Museum, which has three wings housing exhibitions, and the impressive replica of the VOC ship where you can explore on board. The museum is housed in the stunning Zeemagazijn, which was once the warehouse for the Admiralty of Amsterdam. www.hetscheepvaartmuseum.nl

2 DURGERDAM

Cruise further east through the Oranjesluizen Lock (VHF 18) and travel underneath the Schellingwouderbrug road bridge (VHF 18). A bit further on you’ll reach the small, charming town of Durgerdam, whose picturesque listed buildings are popular with visitors. If the harbour is full, there is a good anchorage in the bay.

3 EXPLORING AMSTERDAM’S BARS

For an evening drink on the water, try the ex-pirate radio station Veronica, which is moored by the Botel and has been converted into a club/restaurant.

On the land, there are numerous bars in and around Central Station, although several of the older bars, such as Café Karpershoek, have plenty of atmosphere as well as serving an impressive range of beers and spirits.

4 CANAL CRUISE

If museums are not your scene then try a canal cruise from the Central Station.

You can see a lot of the city in a short time and take in Amsterdam’s famous architecture and impressive bridges.

5 DINING ON THE POLLUX PACIFIC

Once a training ship for the merchant navy, the three-masted Pollux Pacific is now a floating restaurant on the river IJ, offering an impressive range of dishes from steak and ribs to soups and salads. For more information about the restaurant, visit www.polluxpacific.nl