Explore the Majestic Mercator: A Maritime Museum Experience
Discover the rich maritime history aboard the Mercator, a unique museum ship in Ostend showcasing Belgium's seafaring legacy.
The Mercator, an iconic tall ship turned museum, offers a captivating glimpse into maritime history. Explore its decks, learn about its storied past, and enjoy stunning views of Ostend's coastline, making it a must-visit for tourists.
A brief summary to Mercator
- Jan Piersplein 2, Ostend, 8400, BE
- +3259701199
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid the larger crowds, making for a more intimate experience.
- Check the ship's schedule for special events or guided tours that provide deeper insights into its history.
- Don’t forget your camera; the views from the ship and around the harbor are stunning!
- Allocate at least 1-2 hours for your visit to fully explore the ship and its exhibits.
- Consider visiting the nearby cafes for a taste of local seafood after your maritime adventure.
Getting There
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Bicycle
If you are in De Haan and want to ride to Mercator in Ostend, start by heading north on the main road towards the coast (Wenduineweg or Zeedijk). Follow the path along the beach until you reach the town of Oostende. Once you enter Oostende, keep going straight on the Zeedijk until you see the signs for the city center. Continue until you reach Jan Piersplein, where Mercator is located. Look for the large sailing ship; it should be visible from the square.
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Public Transport (Bus)
From De Haan, head to the nearest bus stop. Take the bus towards Oostende (line 5). The journey will take approximately 30 minutes. Get off at the 'Oostende Station' stop. From there, walk towards the beach, then turn left on the Zeedijk. Continue straight until you reach Jan Piersplein, where you will find Mercator.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk, start from the center of De Haan and head north towards the coast. Walk along the beach promenade (Zeedijk) towards Oostende. This scenic walk will take you about 1.5 hours, so wear comfortable shoes. As you approach Oostende, look for Jan Piersplein where Mercator is located. The ship is a prominent landmark in the square.
Discover more about Mercator
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