Even though it may not be the first place that springs to mind when considering sailing holiday spots, Belgium has a surprising number of possibilities for both inexperienced and seasoned sailors. With a North Sea coastline that stretches a little over 67 kilometers, Belgium has several attractive ports and marinas that are ideal for sailing excursions. Sailing Destinations in Belgium is a distinctive and thrilling experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Throughout the breathtaking coastline of the nation, there is something for everyone, whether you are an experienced or novice sailor. So why not set out and discover this undiscovered sailing location?
Some of the top Sailing Destinations in Belgium are listed below:
Top 10 Sailing Destinations in Belgium
Ostend
The largest and most populated coastal town in Belgium is Ostend. Wide beaches, seafood eateries, and a bustling environment are among its top attractions. Also, the port of Ostend is a great place to begin a sailing journey. The superb amenities at the Ostend Marina are available to sailors, and it can accommodate a variety of sailboats, from small sailing vessels to bluewater cruisers. In addition to sailing, tourists can stroll along the seafront or visit the town’s numerous museums and historic structures.
Nieuwpoort
Located at the Yser River’s mouth, Nieuwpoort is a lovely coastal community. The community is renowned for its scenic harbour, which is home to numerous yachts and sailing vessels. Sailors frequently travel to Nieuwpoort’s marina because it is well-equipped and can handle vessels of all sizes. In addition, visitors can stroll through the town’s numerous cafes, eateries, and shops or ride a bike by the river.
Zeebrugge
Zeebrugge is a thriving port city well recognised for its manufacturing sector. Yet it also features a bustling marina that is well-liked by sailors. The marina in Zeebrugge has all the amenities required and can accommodate vessels of all sizes. In addition, visitors can wander along the beach or browse the town’s numerous seafood restaurants and boutiques.
Knokke-Heist
Knokke-Heist is a fashionable coastal community well renowned for its upmarket shops and art galleries. Because it can accommodate boats of all sizes, Knokke-marina Heist’s is a well-liked sailing location. In addition, visitors can ride a bike along the seaside or play a round of golf at one of the town’s several golf facilities.
Breskens
In the Netherlands, close to the Belgian border, Breskens is a quaint fishing community. Breskens’ marina, which can handle boats of all sizes, is a well-liked sailing location. In addition, visitors can wander along the beach or browse the town’s many seafood restaurants and boutiques.
Antwerp
The historic city of Antwerp is situated on the River Scheldt. One of the biggest ports in all of Europe, the city has a number of marinas that are well-liked by sailors. Tourists can ride a bike along the river or visit the city’s numerous museums, historic structures, and art galleries.
Oostduinkerke
Oostduinkerke is a small coastal community well-known for its expansive beach and old-fashioned prawn fishing. Oostduinkerke’s marina, which welcomes boats of all sizes, is a well-liked sailing location. Also, visitors can go horseback riding along the shore or check out the town’s numerous seafood eateries.
De Haan
De Haan is a charming seaside town famous for its long beach and Belle Epoque architecture. Sailors frequently travel to De Haan’s marina because it can handle vessels of all sizes. The town’s numerous art galleries, shops, and restaurants are also open to visitors’ exploration.
Zeebrugge
Zeebrugge is a thriving port city well recognised for its manufacturing sector. Yet it also features a bustling marina that is well-liked by sailors. Boats of all sizes can dock at Zeebrugge’s marina, which also offers simple access to the North Sea. In addition, visitors can wander along the beach or browse the town’s numerous seafood restaurants and boutiques.
Blankenberge
A popular coastal town close to Bruges, Blankenberge is a popular holiday destination. The community is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, amusement park, and long, sandy beach. A variety of sailboats, from small sailing vessels to bluewater yachts, can dock at Blankenberge. The town’s numerous attractions, such as the Belle Epoque Centre and Sea Life aquarium, are also open to visitors.
Best Time to sail in Belgium
The summer months, from June through September, are considered the greatest for sailing in Belgium because of the warm, dry weather. Sailors should anticipate calm seas and light breezes throughout this period, which are perfect sailing conditions. But, it’s crucial to keep in mind that weather conditions can be erratic and quick to change, so it’s crucial to check the forecast before embarking on a sailing expedition. Knowing the local tides and currents is also a good idea because they can significantly affect sailing conditions. Overall, sailors can have a safe and fun summer sailing experience in Belgium with the correct planning and information.
Finding the Best Sailboat in Belgium
There are various ways to get a sailboat if you want to go sailing in Belgium. One choice is to buy a sailboat from a nearby merchant or broker. Bluewater sailboats, bluewater cruisers, and bluewater yachts are among the new and used sailboats that are sold by several dealers and brokers in Belgium.
To discover more about various sailboats, yachts, and catamaran types you can check out this Sailboat Data page. You may discover comprehensive details on different sailboat models and their performance here, making it easy for you how to pick the best boat for your requirements.
A sailboat can also be rented from a nearby charter company. Bluewater cruisers and ocean liners are just a couple of the sailboat types that are available for rent from a number of charter companies in Belgium. If you just intend to sail in Belgium for a brief amount of time or if you’re not yet ready to make the financial commitment to buy your yacht, this option may be quite helpful.
It’s crucial to think about your sailing demands, tastes, and the sailing destinations in Belgium that you intend to visit if you’re interested in buying a sailboat. Consider a bluewater sailboat or bluewater cruiser, which are built for offshore sailing and ocean crossings, if you’re planning to sail in the North Sea or do an ocean voyage. On the other side, a smaller sailboat or blue water sailboat may be more appropriate if you intend to sail in coastal waters or one of Belgium’s many inland waterways.
The ideal sailing vessel for you will ultimately rely on your requirements and tastes, as well as the Sailing Destinations in Belgium that you intend to visit. It’s crucial to make sure you have the necessary skills and expertise to sail securely and confidently in the waters around Belgium, regardless of whether you decide to own a sailboat or rent one from a nearby charter business.
In terms of activities, sailing is without a doubt the primary draw in Belgium. From relaxing day cruises around the coast to demanding ocean crossings, visitors can take part in it all. Many sailing schools offer training and courses for novices, and sailing boats are easily available for rent or charter. Plus, there are numerous regattas and sailing events that happen all year long, giving you plenty of chances to put your skills to the test and network with other sailors.
It is advised to start with a small sailing boat or sailing boat data for individuals who are new to sailing. These boat designs are simple to handle and offer a fantastic introduction to the sport. Sailing in bluewater or doing ocean crossings, which needs a more specialized kind of vessel like a bluewater sailboat or bluewater yacht, may be of interest to more experienced sailors.
Visit our sailing destinations page for some incredible ideas and places to explore if you’re feeling motivated to organize your sailing holiday. Start preparing for your upcoming sailing excursion right away with Ocean Wave Sail!
