Flushing, Vlissingen, Holland
Worthwhile Journeys
You are going to be spending some time in the ports you embark and disembark from. These aren’t just logistical points; they’re opportunities for further enrichment. Take an extra day to discover what’s beyond the harbour. It’s not merely about filling time; it’s about making the entire journey worthwhile.
Keeping in Touch
The exact location of your ship may not be known until closer to your joining time, you will be informed by email once the exact position has been confirmed. Make sure you take a note of the ship’s mobile or cell phone number with you in case you are delayed or there are any other problems on the day.
What to Do in Flushing
History
Flushing, known locally as Vlissingen, has been a key maritime gateway for centuries. It served as a vital naval base for the Dutch East India Company and has long been associated with shipbuilding and trade. The MuZEEum offers excellent insight into Zeeland’s maritime history, while the city’s sea defences and historic docks remind visitors of its importance in both war and commerce.
Culture
The city celebrates its seafaring roots through festivals such as the Sail de Ruyter event, named after Admiral Michiel de Ruyter, one of the Netherlands’ most famous naval heroes. During summer, open-air concerts, film nights, and maritime parades bring the harbour to life, offering visitors a glimpse of Dutch coastal culture at its best.
Sites of Interest to a Sailor
From a sailor’s perspective, Flushing’s approach is one of the most striking in the southern Netherlands. The Scheldt estuary opens wide to the North Sea, with large commercial vessels sharing space with fishing boats and yachts. The wind-swept promenade, lined with lighthouses and bunkers, provides an excellent vantage point to watch ships entering and leaving port. The nearby Pilotage Museum adds depth to the area’s nautical significance.
Entertainment
Flushing has a relaxed, nautical character. The waterfront bars and cafés, particularly around the Bellamypark, are ideal for sailors looking to unwind. The CineCity cinema and local music venues add variety, while neighbouring Middelburg offers further cultural options just a short train ride away.
Eating Out
Seafood is at the heart of Zeeland’s cuisine. Local specialities include mussels, oysters, and shrimp, best enjoyed at waterfront restaurants like Restaurant De Gecroonde Liefde or De Ruyter. The city’s bakeries and brasseries also offer hearty Dutch fare, ideal after a long voyage.
Nature
Beyond the port, Zeeland’s coastline offers long, sandy beaches and quiet dunes. The Nollestrand and Dishoek beaches are close to town, ideal for swimming or walking. Cyclists can follow well-marked coastal trails, and birdwatchers will find abundant life in the nearby nature reserves of Westerschelde and Veere.
Unique Features
Flushing stands out for its working maritime character. Unlike resort towns, it remains a living port where ocean-going ships pass within metres of the sea wall. Its mix of industry, history, and seaside atmosphere captures the true spirit of a sailor’s town.
Accommodation
For those extending their stay, Hotel Arion offers sea-view rooms directly on the promenade. The City2Beach Hotel provides a comfortable, modern option in the centre. For something quieter, Bed & Breakfasts in nearby Dishoek or Zoutelande offer local charm and easy access to the beach.
Official Tourist Website
https://www.vlissingen.nl/toerisme
Weather in Flushing
Winter is cool and often breezy, averaging 4–6°C with regular rain and clear breaks. Spring brings mild weather and fresh westerly winds. Summer temperatures sit around 20°C, ideal for sailing and outdoor activity. Autumn sees more wind and occasional storms, with temperatures gradually cooling to around 10°C.
Sea and Beyond: A Responsible Mariner’s Guide
Since you’re already investing in a unique sailing adventure, why not extend that spirit to your travel choices? Opt for more sustainable methods of transport where possible like trains, coaches, or sharing a car. If you fly, and we realise this may well be the case, you could research some ways to offset the carbon created by the flight.
Special Interests
If you have a special interest that you would like to find out about for this port or to tell us about, we would love to hear from you.
How to Get There
From the UK
Travelling to Flushing is simple. The Harwich–Hook of Holland ferry connects directly with Dutch rail lines, and from Rotterdam or Amsterdam, trains run to Flushing in about two hours. Alternatively, Eurostar services from London to Rotterdam offer easy onward connections.
From Europe
Flushing is well connected by train from major Dutch cities such as Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and The Hague. Bus links from Belgium and northern France are frequent, and nearby Middelburg provides good transport connections.
From North America
Fly to Amsterdam Schiphol or Brussels. From either airport, take a train to Flushing, with travel times between two and three hours. Both routes offer frequent services and scenic views of the Dutch countryside.
From Australia
Typical routes connect via Dubai, Doha, or Singapore to Amsterdam. From there, direct trains run regularly to Flushing, taking about three hours.
When Is the Best Time to Book a Flight?
Domestic travel: Book 1–2 months in advance.
International travel: Plan to book 3–6 months ahead.
Holiday travel: Secure your tickets 3–10 months in advance.
High-demand periods: Start monitoring fares as early as possible.
Spring, summer, or autumn international trips: Look at least 4–6 months before departure.
Extra Tips for Finding Cheap Flights
Travel off-peak, avoid busy travel periods, and consider midweek flights. Explore alternative airports, check airline websites for direct deals, and use flight trackers such as Google Flights or Hopper. Signing up for fare alerts or newsletters like Jack’s Flight Club can help you spot sudden price drops.
Tools to Help You Save
Tools like Skyscanner’s Savings Generator can provide insights into the best booking windows for your trip, ensuring you get the most value for your money.
With these tips, planning your next trip doesn’t have to break the bank. Start early, stay flexible, and explore your options for the best results.
