Wandelaar Pilot Station Visit - 23 July and 11 August

17 May 2026
|In Event
|By belgium

Exclusive Visit to Wandelaar Pilot Station 

After last year’s hugely successful visit to the Wandelaar Pilot Station, we’re excited to bring this unique experience back again this year.

Step aboard the impressive SWATH ship m/v WANDELAAR and experience a rare journey into the heart of the bustling North Sea. Operated by the Belgian maritime authority DAB VLOOT, m/v WANDELAAR offers a unique glimpse into the world of pilotage at sea. As you cruise through one of the busiest maritime crossroads in the world, you’ll witness firsthand how large seagoing vessels are expertly guided by professional pilots. The ship’s innovative SWATH design ensures exceptional stability, even in rough conditions. Watch as coordination, timing, and seamanship come together. Throughout the tour, you’ll gain insights into the critical role pilot vessels play in global trade and maritime safety. From the bridge of the WANDELAAR, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of towering container ships, heavy loaded bulk carriers and fast coasters.

Program of the visit:

  • 11:30h: Leaving Antwerp by car (We will carpool from a central location)
  • 13:00h: Announce ourselves at the DAB VLOOT office Q102
  • 14:00h: Embark the tenderswath in Ostend Q102
  • 15:00h: Boarding of m/v WANDELAAR (At Sea)
  • 18:00h: Disembarking of m/v WANDELAAR (At sea)
  • 19:00h: Return by tenderswath to Ostend Q102
  • 21:00h: Estimated return to Antwerp by car

Practical info:

  • Be on time!
  • Wear comfortable and warm clothing (Even in case of nice weather).
  • Wear comfortable, flat shoes (no heels) with non-slippery shoe soles.
  • A life jacket will be provided prior to departure by the tenderswath.
  • Diner will be served on board by the cook!
  • If you are sensitive to seasickness, please take a motion-sickness medicine in advance.

Remarks:

  • This is a very exclusive event and limited to 7 members per day (2 dates available) and therefore we count on your presence when you are subscribed. In case you need to cancel, please inform us immediately, so we can invite another member to join.
  • This event is depending on good weather conditions. In case the weather conditions at sea do not allow a safe transfer of crew, the event will be cancelled or postponed.

Dates:

23.07.2026 & 11.08.2026

Location:

Carpool will be organised from a central location

Register here!

(If tickets are sold out, you can add your name to the waitlist)