Vlissingen tide times

Mean tidal range at Vlissingen is approximately 3.8 m (NAP datum), measured at the Rijkswaterstaat tide gauge at the mouth of the Westerschelde. Spring tidal range reaches around 4.5 m; neap range around 3.0 m. These are large, macrotidal values — among the highest in Dutch waters. Rijkswaterstaat publishes official tide tables and real-time gauge data at waterinfo.rws.nl. Tide predictions on this site use Open-Meteo Marine models (±45 min, ±0.2–0.3 m); the large range means model error is proportionally less significant here than at microtidal locations.

Tidal currents in the Westerschelde main channel at Vlissingen reach 3–4 knots on spring tides — well into the range where small craft must account for tidal set in cross-channel passages. The ebb current runs slightly stronger and longer than the flood because the estuary shape accelerates outflow. The Westerschelde is also the main shipping channel to Antwerp, with continuous commercial traffic at all states of tide; any small-craft navigation must factor both the current and the vessel traffic separation scheme.

The Boulevard beach at Vlissingen is usable but macrotidal conditions dictate timing. At low tide on spring tides, the water recedes 200–300 m from the sea wall across exposed sand. High tide brings water directly to the wall, reducing the beach to a narrow strip or eliminating it. Swimming and beach use is most comfortable in the 2–3 hours around high water. For surfing, the Boulevard receives North Sea swell from the northwest; the best conditions combine a clean northwest groundswell with a rising tide over the sand bottom. Water temperature peaks around 18–19 °C in August.

The Westerschelde is the only navigable deepwater approach to Antwerp, one of Europe's largest container ports. All vessels bound for or departing Antwerp must transit the Westerschelde, which is maintained at around 16 m depth by continuous dredging. Vlissingen is the seaward gateway: large container ships, LNG tankers, and bulk carriers pass the town's waterfront continuously. The Zeeland Refinery (one of the Netherlands' largest) and a large chemical cluster operate adjacent to the estuary. Rijkswaterstaat controls dredging, buoyage, and traffic management for the channel.

These predictions are for general information only and are not a substitute for official navigation data. For navigation in the Westerschelde — a vessel traffic separation scheme area with 3–4 knot tidal currents and continuous commercial shipping — use official Rijkswaterstaat tide tables and real-time gauge data from waterinfo.rws.nl. Obtain current charts (UKHO or NLHO), follow the traffic separation scheme regulations, monitor VHF channel 67 (Westerschelde Traffic), and ensure your vessel has appropriate current charts and up-to-date notices to mariners.