Kruibeke & Rupelmonde

A ship restauration yard and a Castle

The morning programme features a visit to Tolerant vzw, a non-profit organisation dedicated to the preservation of authentic Flemish and Zeeland ships and crafts.

Its objectives encompass the renovation and potential recommissioning of classic vessels, as well as organising sailing excursions to showcase and celebrate nautical heritage.

The organisation maintains a comprehensive documentation centre housing books, registers, photographs, films, drawings, stories, and models, while actively collaborating with staff and sponsors to further its mission.

At Tolerant vzw, all members serve as volunteers, representing a wide array of backgrounds and expertise. Leveraging a robust professional network, these volunteers will provide an expert tour of the shipyard, offering insight into their restoration work.

Lunch will be served at Restaurant Scaldiana in the centre of Rupelmonde, the Mercator city, featuring soup, a main course, one beverage, and coffee. The establishment benefits from a scenic location on the banks of the Scheldt.

In the afternoon, participants will visit Wissekerke Castle in Bazel, a site of historical significance in Belgium’s foundation. After extensive restoration, the castle now offers an innovative experience trail within both the building and its parklands. The Viscountess Zoé de Feltz will guide guests through the Vilain XIIII family’s history, the interplay between Catholic and liberal factions, international politics, and her notable connection to Napoleon.

Wissekerke Castle

Schedule of the day:

10:30   Welcome coffee at CNR-loods, Scheepsbouwersstraat 16, 9150 Rupelmonde

11:00   Visit of Tolerant vzw

12:45   A 10 minutes walk bring us to restaurant Scaldania, Gelaagstraat 55, Rupelmonde

13:00   Lunch at Scaldania:  soup – pork tenderloin with vegetables – fries or croquettes – coffee/tea – 1 drink included (soft, water, pils beer)

14:30   Departure by car to Wissekerke castle, Koningin Astridplein 17, Bazel-Kruibeke  (5 km – 11 minutes drive)

15:00   Visit of Wissekerke castle with some story telling by Viscountess Zoé de Feltz

How to get there:

Since both places are difficult to reach by public transport, the organiser would greatly appreciate if members/participants declare themselves willing to carpool as much as possible or to indicate that they want to offer less mobile participants a lift.

By car: from Antwerp take the E17 towards Gent. Take the exit 15a-Haasdonk to N485 direction Haasdonk/Steendorp. Follow Temsestraat and next Dijkstraat. For the continuation of the route see map.