Flushing Maritime 2026
From Thursday, June 4th to Sunday, June 7th, 2026, Vlissingen will be completely dedicated to the sea, ships, and maritime experiences during Vlissingen Maritime. Around the Albionkade and the Scheldekwartier, the city will transform into a lively open harbor filled with impressive tall ships, historical vessels, music, activities, and entertainment for all ages. The event is free to attend and immerses visitors in the maritime atmosphere of Zeeland for four days. Opening concert on Thursday, June 4th, 2026.
The festive opening of Vlissingen Maritime 2026 will take place in the impressive Saint James' Church in Vlissingen. During this atmospheric opening concert, you will be taken on a special musical journey through maritime traditions, classical music, and modern influences.
We proudly welcome the Marine Band of the Royal Netherlands Navy, led by conductor Major Erik van der Kolk. This top international-level orchestra presents a varied program full of romantic overtures, modern classical with jazz influences, big band music, and beautiful French chansons.
The special guest for this evening is Tess Merlot, the leading chansonnière of the Low Countries. Together with the Marine Band of the Royal Netherlands Navy, she will provide a unique and atmospheric musical experience, both before and after the intermission.
This concert not only marks the official opening of Vlissingen Maritime 2026, but also serves as a tribute to Vlissingen's rich maritime history and identity. An evening full of tradition, craftsmanship, and emotion that you won't want to miss.
Practical information
- Location: Culture Stage St. Jacobskerk, Vlissingen
- Date: Thursday, June 4, 2026
- Entry: from 7:30 PM
- Concert start: 8:00 PM
- Ticket price: €12.50 excluding €0.75 administration fee
Maritime Experience
Vlissingen Maritime offers more than just impressive ships. During the Maritime Experience, you'll discover just how versatile, innovative, and future-oriented the modern maritime sector is.
On and around the 1st Inner Harbour, you'll get acquainted with high-tech shipping, offshore, logistics, and nautical services. Visitors can tour various ships, watch demonstrations, and experience firsthand what it's like to work in the maritime world.
Climb a real pilot ladder, step into a VR experience of the Royal Navy, try a crane simulator, or discover how a pilot, crane operator, or helmsman works. More than 30 companies and organizations will explain technology, innovation, and career opportunities within the sector.
In addition, there are spectacular demonstrations, including a life raft rescue demonstration by De Ruyter Training & Consultancy. Activities & Entertainment
During Vlissingen Maritiem, there's something happening everywhere along the quays. Admire impressive tall ships and historic vessels up close, enjoy live music, street theater, demonstrations, and a lively atmosphere at the catering square.
There are plenty of activities for children, while adults can relax and enjoy the unique maritime ambiance by the water.
Street theater visitors can enjoy, among other things:
- Brothers Brekebeen
- Wanderer
- The Singing Mermaid
- Southwestern Duo
- Nautilus One-Man-Band
- Musical Sailors
Music Program Harbor Square
Friday, June 5 – The Cover Quay
An evening full of tribute bands and classics including:
- Queen by Miracle
- Rumors by Fleetwood Mac
- Tribute to The Police
A grand Dutch party night with:
- Frans Duijts
- The Havenzangers
- Party DJ W
Additionally, Sjors van der Panne will sing Jacques Brel live on the Albionkade.
Prison Tower Race
On Saturday, June 6th, the traditional Gevangentoren race will take place: a spectacular rowing boat race at sea along the boulevard of Vlissingen.
The race starts at 12:30 PM from the Havenhoofd. The sloops will row towards the Nolledijk and then return to the locks. The changing tide makes it a challenging race where strength, technique, and teamwork are central.
Visitors can follow the race from the boulevard or even from a tall ship.
Practical information
Opening Hours:
- Thursday, June 4: Opening concert from 7:30 PM
- Friday, June 5: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday, June 6: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Sunday, June 7: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PMLocation
The event takes place around:
- Albionkade
- Wood Quay
- Perry's closet
- 1st and 2nd Inner Harbor
- City harbor
- Scheldekwartier Accessibility
Vlissingen Maritiem is easily accessible by bicycle, car, and public transport. From Vlissingen station, it's about a 10-minute walk to the event grounds.
Access
The event is free to attend. Tickets are only required for boat trips and the opening concert.
Become a volunteer or sponsor?
Vlissingen Maritiem is organized by an enthusiastic team of volunteers and partners. Would you like to contribute to this special event as a sponsor or volunteer? Please contact us via:
- voorzitter@vlissingen-maritiem.nl
- vrijwilliger@vlissingen-maritiem.nl
