Rupelmonde

Lightship Westhinder
Lightships together with light buoys and lighthouses steered ships safely into the ports of the Scheldt estuary. They were anchored in a permanent location at sea. Often the light ship bore the name of the shallows it warned against: Wielingen, Wandelaar, Westhinder, etc. They were gradually replaced with unmanned light platforms.
The Westhinder is a light boat that was built in 1950 in Ostend. These days the Westhinder has found its final resting place in Rupelmonde and it is being developed as a maritime visitors centre. On the middle deck the life story of the Westhinder is illustrated for the public. On the lower decks former shipbuilding in Rupelmonde is brought back to life. The upper and middle decks are primarily used for receptions and events for associations and companies.
Where the Scheldt and the Rupel merge, the Westhinder stands out because of its bright red colour and tall masts, which carry the antennas of the radio and the powerful lighthouse. The Westhinder crew used to stay on board for two weeks at a time. It was responsible for the maintenance of the boat and the light installations and was to report any ship and airline accidents. It also carried out weather measurements. In a log all observations and all incidents were recorded from minute to minute.
The Westhinder owes its priceless value primarily to the copper wheel house. The latter was used to neutralise the magnetic effects on the compass. Only one other boat in the world is able to claim this feature. In addition, the ship counts more than 150 copper windows and portholes. Overlooking Rupelmonde and the Scheldt estuary.
Practical: In July and August individual visitors can view the Westhinder every day along the quay in Rupelmonde. In other months also by appointment. Free admission. For groups a guide is possible on request. Cost is €12.50.
Information: Tourist Office Rupelmonde, 1 Nederstraat, 9150 Rupelmonde, tel. 0032-3 744 10 13, www.kruibeke.be
Practical: A combination of visits to the Getijdenmolen, Westhinder, D'n Bruinen and
CNR yard is possible.
Information: Tourist Office Rupelmonde, 1 Nederstraat, 9150 Rupelmonde, tel 0032-3 744 10 13, www.kruibeke.be