Sailing area the Oosterschelde

The Oosterschelde is an estuary with a current and tides. At nearly 35,000 hectares, it is one of the largest expanses of water in Zeeland. If you have enough experience, sailing these waters can be a wonderful challenge. With a visit to the artificial island of Neeltje Jans you can learn more about the origins and importance of the Delta Works. Or you can take your kids on an exciting trip to Waterland instead. The Oosterscheldekering and the Zeeland Bridge are impressive sights for both you and your crew. The Zeeland Bridge, built in 1965 between Zierikzee and Colijnsplaat, is the first fixed road link in the Oosterschelde. The retractable part of the bridge is operated by the lock system in Vlissingen.

Sailing the Oosterschelde is exciting for nature enthusiasts as well. These days, seals and harbour porpoises can often be spotted in the area. The open connection to the North Sea means there are two tidal cycles per day. The tidal flats, which are submerged during high tide and exposed during low tide, provide ample food for the many birds that come to forage in the area. Once the tidal flats disappear beneath the waves, the birds flock to the shores of the Oosterschelde where, behind the dykes, there lies an abundance of fields, inlays and creeks. This is an ideal place to explore by bike or on foot.  

The cities of Yerseke, Goes and Zierikzee have something for everyone. In the city centre of Yerseke you will find the Museum of Shellfish and Crustaceans. Goes is the third monument city in Zeeland, with a protected townscape and 238 national monuments. It has a lovely city centre with nice stores, marinas and a connection to the Oosterschelde via the Goes-Goese Sas Channel. Zierikzee also has many monument buildings and several inviting bars and restaurants. Via the Bergsediepsluis you can visit Tholen and Bergen op Zoom. There are also plenty of small harbours where you can dock.

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