VLISSINGEN (Flushing, to the British) is approached either directly from the Westerschelde or from the north down the Kanaal door Walcheren. From the south or west, cross the Westerschelde taking care of the busy shipping lanes and head either for Koopmanshaven whose entrance is directly on the estuary or for the entrance to the inner docks which is further to the east. From the north, approach down the canal from Middelburg. There are several opening bridges along the way which will slow your progress, but generally you don’t have to wait long. Just hang about with any other craft until the bridge opens.

Vlissingen is more of a working town than Middelburg but still a place with plenty of history if less eye-catching appeal. There are a couple of marinas, but neither has a lot of space for visitors. The inner one, VVW Schelde Vlissingen (T 01 18 46 59 12) is located just south of the last opening bridge on the canal. Turn left if coming down the canal, or right if coming in from the sea, in which case you will need to negotiate a lock which takes you into Vlissingen’s inner harbours. The marina is rather pretty with a basic but friendly café-restaurant and all other facilities including fuel and free wi-fi, but it’s a longish walk from the centre of town.

The other marina, Michiel De Ruyter haven (T 01 18 41 44 98), is much nearer the action and is approached through the Koopmanshaven directly from the Westerschelde. The entrance is indicated by a conspicuous church spire. However, be prepared to be turned away if you arrive late in the day during high season.

Local restaurants include Solskin (Boulevard Bankert 58, T 01 18 41 73 50), De Bourgondiër (Boulevard Bankert 280, T 01 18 41 38 91) and De Gevangentoren (Boulevard de Ruyter 1, T 01 18 41 14 41).

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