Blankenberge: Offshore Wind Farm Tour by Boat

Taking a boat ride out to see the Thorntonbank Wind Farm might not be what you’d typically think of as a holiday highlight, but for travelers interested in sustainable energy, maritime views, and engineering marvels, this 2.5-hour tour is a surprisingly rewarding experience. It offers a chance to see massive turbines up close and learn about their role in Flanders’ green future—all while enjoying the fresh North Sea air.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines stunning seaside scenery with informative commentary from seasoned guides. It’s not just a boat trip; it’s a glimpse into how renewable energy is shaping our world. Plus, the small-group setting means you get a more personal experience—no noisy crowds here. One thing to keep in mind is that if seasickness is an issue, you might want to think twice, as the boat is out in open water for a good stretch.

This adventure is perfect for energy enthusiasts, maritime history buffs, or anyone simply looking for a unique perspective on the Belgian coast. If you appreciate authentic experiences, scenic views, and learning something new, you should add this to your itinerary.

Key Points

• Impressive Engineering: Up-close views of the Thorntonbank Wind Farm’s turbines offer a fascinating look at renewable energy infrastructure.
• Expert Guides: The knowledgeable crew provides engaging commentary on wind turbines, shipping routes, tides, and currents.
• Beautiful Coastal Views: Enjoy stunning vistas of the Flanders coastline from the water.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to a small number of participants, making it more personal and flexible.
• Weather Friendly: Operates rain or shine, though extremely bad weather might cause cancellation.
• Value for Money: The tour includes safety equipment, a professional skipper, and a post-tour gin shot, adding a bit of fun and relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Starting Point and Meeting Details

Your tour begins at Brasserie Steiger 18, Havenplein 3, Blankenberge. Arrive about 15 minutes early—this gives you time to settle in and meet your crew before departure. The meeting point’s central location makes it easy to access from many parts of the coast, and the staff is known for clear communication, with reviews noting friendly guidance in multiple languages including German, Dutch, French, and English.

Boarding and Departure

Once aboard one of the top-of-the-range motorboats, you’ll set out across the 27 kilometers of open sea towards the Thorntonbank Wind Farm. The small size of the group ensures a more intimate experience, and the boat’s safety equipment is in place, with life jackets being mandatory—so no worries about safety here.

The Journey Outward

The trip out to the wind farm is part of the adventure. The boat rides smoothly, and you’ll start to see the impressive turbines from a distance. These turbines aren’t just big—they are some of the largest engineering feats in renewable energy, providing sustainable power for the Flanders region. During the trip, your crew will share insights into how these turbines are built, what makes them so efficient, and why wind energy is vital for the future.

Many reviews highlight the stunning views and the knowledgeable explanations. One traveler commented, “Alles super! Kommunikation auf Deutsch. Auf dem Boot erfolgten Erklärungen zu unterschiedlichen Bojen und dem Windpark,” emphasizing that the guides are clear and informative, especially in German.

Close-up View of the Wind Farm

When you arrive near the turbines, the view is awe-inspiring. These giants, towering over the ocean, demonstrate the scale of modern renewable energy projects. The water level provides a different perspective than land-based visits, letting you appreciate the engineering and design of each turbine.

Learning and Observation

Your crew will talk about how windmills are constructed, what factors influence their placement, and how they generate sustainable energy. They also cover some maritime topics like shipping routes, buoys, currents, and tides, giving a broader picture of the importance of the North Sea beyond just wind power.

Return Trip and Reflection

After about two hours of viewing and learning, you’ll turn back toward the harbor. Many visitors appreciate the relaxed pace of the trip, giving time to absorb the scenery and ask questions. You’ll return to Blankenberge with a new appreciation for offshore renewable energy, and perhaps a few good photos of those iconic turbines.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

What Travelers Love

Based on reviews, one of the biggest highlights is the knowledgeable crew, who are enthusiastic and clear in their explanations. Many mention how the views of the turbines from the water are both stunning and educational. As one review mentions, “The explanations at sea were not always understandable due to the sound of the ship’s engine,” but overall, visitors find the guides engaging and informative.

The Scenic Value

The coastal views are another favorite aspect. Watching the Belgian coastline recede behind you while vast wind turbines dominate the horizon makes for a memorable photo and a real sense of the scale of renewable energy projects.

Practical Considerations

The tour runs rain or shine, which means dressing accordingly. Packing sunglasses, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate gear is recommended. Because the trip is out on open water, it’s less suitable for those prone to seasickness. The boat is equipped with safety gear, and wearing a life jacket is mandatory—so don’t forget to bring your best sea legs.

Value and Price

At a duration of just 2.5 hours, the tour offers good value, especially considering it includes professional guiding, safety equipment, and a post-tour gin shot—a fun touch that adds a relaxed vibe to the experience. While there’s no mention of food included, the experience’s educational content and scenic views make up for the modest price in terms of entertainment and insight.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip will appeal most to those interested in renewable energy, maritime infrastructure, or scenic coastal experiences. It’s also great for travelers who enjoy small-group tours and want a more personal, less commercialized activity. Given the focus on education and engineering, it’s particularly suited for curious adults and older children.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic perspectives and authentic views, this tour offers an honest look at how offshore wind energy is developing. It’s also a good alternative for travelers wanting a break from land-based sightseeing, offering a refreshing, out-on-the-water perspective.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a unique blend of scenic coastal views, educational insights, and a touch of adventure, the Blankenberge Offshore Wind Farm Tour by Boat hits the mark. It’s a rare opportunity to get up close with some of the largest wind turbines in the North Sea and learn how they contribute to a sustainable future. The knowledgeable guides, small-group format, and stunning scenery make it a worthwhile addition to any Flanders itinerary.

While not a tour for seasickness-prone travelers or those expecting a lavish experience, it offers genuine value for those interested in renewable energy, maritime history, and coastal landscapes. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as part of an eco-conscious group, this trip helps you see the Belgian coast in a whole new light—literally and figuratively.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it’s best for older children who can handle 2.5 hours on open water and are interested in turbines and maritime scenery. Seasickness may be a concern, so plan accordingly.

What should I wear?
Dress in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Bringing sunglasses and sunscreen is recommended, as the sun and sea spray can be intense. The boat provides safety gear, including life jackets.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour runs rain or shine, but if weather conditions are extremely bad, the operator may cancel.

Are the guides multilingual?
Yes, guides speak Dutch, French, English, and German, making it accessible for many travelers.

How long is the journey out and back?
The total trip lasts 2.5 hours, including the journey to and from the wind farm. Expect about 1.25 hours each way, depending on sea conditions.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, helping ensure everyone can enjoy the experience.

This boat tour offers an engaging way to explore Belgium’s offshore wind energy and coastal scenery. It’s a fine choice for those curious about sustainable technology, maritime landscapes, or just looking for a memorable sea adventure with knowledgeable guides.

You can check availability for your dates here: