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There are very few regions in Europe where waterways play such an important part in transport and hobby, and at the same time connect so many historic cities, as it is the case in Flanders. Rivers and canals run through all regions in all directions. Since the Roman people, successive rulers of this part of Belgium clearly have left their maritime marks by

developing canals, locks and harbours. Just think of the surname of Bruges as ‘Venice of the North’, of Ostend as an advanced Protestant stronghold, and of Antwerp as the central axis between trade, industry and culture throughout all centuries.

An additional advantage is the fact that most of the waterways are connected to our neighbour countries. If you want to sail from Friesland to Istambul, you can easily pass through Belgium.

But apart from the economical importance of Flanders´ waterways, one has discovered mainly the plethora of micro-worlds, slowly passing your portholes. And plenty of water sports and motoryacht clubs have settled along almost all navigable waterways, thus laying the foundations for inland cruising. Lately, the government has done an enormous effort to develop the existing infrastructure, to adapt it to modern standards and to create new mooring possibilities, harbours and solitary pontoons, either for passers-by or for a longer stay. In cooperation with France and Holland and backed up by the European Community, a quality programme has been developed which, along with berths and shore facilities, also incorporates a clear signpost system and extensive sailing guides.

Cruising in Flanders is another way to discover an area that overflows with culture and with touristically interesting sites, vibrating with activities. The quietness and taut nature of the ‘Westhoek’ is a fascinating contrast to the ancient grandeur of cities like Kortrijk, Ghent or Bruges, Antwerp as the port of call for modern fashion, diamonds and water, Leuven as the oldest university town, Maaseik as the historical summit in the Limburg green environment and, of course, Brussels as the centre of Europe: they can all be reached by water. Also keep in mind that the inland can be approached without any problem through 3 out of our 4 coastal marinas. The Flemish waterways system looks like a web having, at its intersections, a lot of interesting and worthwhile attractions making this region unique.his region unique.