Nieuwpoort - Restrictions

Description:

The port of Nieuwpoort is located 2.4 kms (1.5 miles) up the River IJzer (Yser), roughly midway between Dunkirk and Oostende. It has the largest marina in Northern Europe, is an active fishing port, has a beautiful old city centre and is also a popular beach resort. When you enter the port you pass a nature reserve where it's possible to spot seals.

The River IJzer flows through an impressive set of spillways and locks in Nieuwpoort before it enters the North Sea. This 19th-century system (known as the Ganzepoot) was used to flood Nieuwpoort’s backcountry for the entirety of the First World War. The dedicated visitor's center is worth a visit.

Nieuwpoort is on the Belgian coast’s Kusttram system, so you can use public transport to easily get around the city. Nearby Oostende has good connections.

Entrance Notes and Cautions:

Although the entrance is fairly narrow, is it accessible in all weathers. Take care as there can be strong currents in the channel towards the marina, in particular in strong NW winds and at low tide. The channel is dredged to at least 2.5 metres.

Position:  

51° 09'28"N, 002° 42'54"E (harbor entrance)