Board a private boat on the Eastern Scheldt (Oosterschelde) to visit working oyster and mussel beds, tasting freshly harvested shellfish straight from the water with fine local wine. The most delicious way to understand why Zeeland's seafood is legendary.
What to expect
You join a local oysterman or licensed guide at the Yerseke quayside, the undisputed mussel capital of the Netherlands. The boat glides out into the Eastern Scheldt National Park — the largest tidal national park in Northwest Europe — while your guide explains the centuries-old tradition of shellfish cultivation in these nutrient-rich waters. You'll pull up cages of Pacific oysters and watch mussels harvested in real time before tasting them fresh, paired with crisp Zeelandse white wine and dark bread. The journey back offers views of the Eastern Scheldt storm surge barrier standing sentinel against the North Sea.
Good to know
Yerseke is approximately 40 minutes by taxi from Vlissingen. Experiences are highly seasonal (best May–September). Pre-booking is essential as capacity is very limited. Confirm all-aboard time with your ship and allow at least 4 hours for the experience and return journey.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Zeeland — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.