Blankenberge: Offshore Wind Farm Tour by Boat

If you’re visiting the Belgian coast and looking for a blend of scenic views, engineering marvels, and maritime education, the Offshore Wind Farm Tour in Blankenberge is worth considering. This 2.5-hour boat trip offers more than just a cruise; it’s an engaging way to see one of Europe’s prominent offshore energy projects up close and learn about the vital role the North Sea plays in shipping and sustainability.

We love how this tour combines spectacular sea views, insightful commentary from knowledgeable guides, and an intimate group setting that keeps the experience personal and relaxed. Plus, the opportunity to admire the massive turbines of Thorntonbank Wind Farm from the water offers an experience that feels both impressive and educational. However, travelers prone to seasickness or looking for a more leisurely inland excursion might find the open-sea setting a bit challenging. This trip suits those interested in renewable energy, maritime life, and scenic coastal views—perfect for eco-conscious travelers or curiosity seekers alike.

Good To Know

• Stunning coastline views of Flanders and the North Sea.
• Close-up views of the impressive turbines at Thorntonbank Wind Farm.
• Educational insights about wind power, maritime routes, and tides.
• Small group setting ensures a more personal experience.
• Weather-dependent; the tour runs rain or shine but may be canceled during extreme weather.
• Includes safety equipment and a complimentary gin shot after the tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Overview of the Offshore Wind Farm Tour

Starting at the harbor of Blankenberge, this tour begins with a brief safety briefing and introduction from the crew, before boarding a top-of-the-range motorboat. The boat is well-equipped, with safety gear provided, but it’s worth noting that the open sea trip can be bumpy, especially if you’re sensitive to motion.

The group size is small, typically allowing for a more relaxed and engaging experience. The boat departs from Havenplein 3, and within about 15 minutes, you’re on your way across the 27-kilometer stretch of open sea toward Thorntonbank Wind Farm. The journey itself is a highlight, offering panoramic views of the coast and the vast North Sea.

Exploring the Thorntonbank Wind Farm

The main attraction is undoubtedly the Thorntonbank Wind Farm. As you approach, you’ll see a cluster of enormous turbines spinning steadily—each one a towering feat of engineering. These turbines are crucial in providing sustainable energy for the Flanders region, and seeing them from the water offers a perspective that photos on land simply can’t capture.

While the turbines are stunning, the guides, including knowledgeable crew members, also share insights about their construction and function. Expect to learn that these windmills are part of Belgium’s push toward renewable energy, helping to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

A review from a recent traveler noted, “The explanation given at sea was not always understandable due to the sound of the ship’s engine,” which is a good reminder to bring ear protection or be prepared for some background noise. Still, the guides’ enthusiasm and expertise shine through, helping you appreciate the technical and environmental significance of these wind turbines.

Maritime Insights and Educational Highlights

Beyond the turbines, the crew provides educational commentary about North Sea shipping routes, buoys, currents, and tides. For maritime history buffs or those interested in nautical safety, this adds a fascinating layer to the experience.

The guide’s explanations help clarify how the North Sea’s busy shipping lanes coexist with offshore energy infrastructure—a balancing act that’s vital for Belgium’s economy and energy future. One reviewer pointed out, “The explanation given at sea was not always understandable due to the sound of the ship’s engine,” so if you’re eager for clarity, consider sitting closer or asking questions during quieter moments.

The Experience on the Water

The 2.5-hour trip whizzes by quickly, thanks to the engaging commentary and stunning views. Expect to spend about an hour heading out, with time spent admiring the turbines and taking photographs. The return trip is equally scenic, offering different perspectives of the coast and the turbines.

As part of the experience, water-taxi operator Water-Taxi includes a professional skipper, safety equipment, and a complementary gin shot—a fun way to finish the trip and toast the success of renewable energy projects.

The boat’s open design allows for fresh sea air and unobstructed views, making it ideal for photographers or anyone wanting a clear shot of the turbines. However, be aware that the vessel is not suited for those prone to seasickness, and weather conditions can impact the experience. The tour runs rain or shine, but extremely bad weather may result in cancellation.

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Practical Details and What You Need to Know

The tour costs $96 per person, which offers good value considering the personalized experience, educational content, and scenic beauty. The price includes safety gear and a post-tour gin shot, but food is not included, so plan to eat beforehand or bring snacks if desired.

Meet 15 minutes early at Brasserie Steiger 18, Havenplein 3. The tour lasts 2.5 hours, with multiple departure times available—check the schedule to find one that suits your plans.

The experience is accessible to wheelchair users, and guides offer narration in Dutch, French, English, and German. This multilingual approach ensures many visitors can enjoy the tour without language barriers.

Tips for a Better Experience

• Bring sunglasses and sunscreen for protection against the sun and wind.
• Dress in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing—layers are advised as it can be cooler on the water.
• Be prepared for the possibility of sea motion, especially if you’re susceptible to seasickness.
• Consider bringing a camera or smartphone with a good zoom for capturing the turbines from different angles.
• If you want to ask questions, try to do so during quieter moments when the guides are not explaining.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those interested in renewable energy and sustainability, as it offers a rare close-up view of offshore wind turbines. It’s also great for photographers eager for breathtaking sea and wind farm shots, or maritime enthusiasts wanting to learn about North Sea shipping and currents.

If you’re traveling with kids, keep in mind the open sea environment and potential motion discomfort. Those with a curiosity for engineering or eco-conscious travelers will find this trip particularly engaging.

The Sum Up

The Blankenberge offshore wind farm boat tour offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, technical insight, and maritime education. It’s a fantastic way to see Belgium’s renewable energy infrastructure from a close vantage point, all while enjoying the fresh sea breeze and panoramic coastal views.

The small group setting and knowledgeable guides make this experience both intimate and informative. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate sustainable initiatives, enjoy sea views, and are comfortable on a boat. While not tailored for seasickness-prone visitors or those seeking a leisurely inland trip, it delivers genuine value for those eager to learn about offshore wind energy and maritime life.

If you’re looking for an active, educational adventure with stunning scenery, this tour ticks many boxes—and the chance to see giant turbines doing their thing at sea is truly a sight to behold.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It can be, but it’s best for children who are comfortable on open water. The trip is 2.5 hours long, and the boat is open, so active children or those with seasickness should consider this before booking.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. Bringing layers, sunglasses, and sunscreen will help you stay comfortable during the trip.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for guests with mobility needs.

Will I see the turbines from close up?
Yes, you’ll get a close-up view of the turbines from the water, which is a unique perspective compared to land-based views.

What is included in the price?
The ticket includes motorboat transportation, safety equipment, a professional skipper, and a gin shot after the tour.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour runs rain or shine but may be canceled during extreme weather conditions. It’s advisable to check weather forecasts and the cancellation policy before your trip.

This boat tour in Blankenberge is a wonderful way to combine coastal sightseeing with education on renewable energy, all while enjoying the thrill of being on the open sea. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, eco-warrior, or simply someone who loves scenic views, it’s a trip worth considering during your Belgian coast adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: