Eastern Scheldt storm surge barrier - Sight
The Oosterschelde storm surge barrier is the icon of the Dutch battle against the water and a masterpiece within the world-famous Delta Works.
Not just a dam
- Created after the North Sea Flood (1953): Decision to build a storm surge barrier nearly 9 km long with enormous gates.
- Not just a dam: Originally planned as a closed dam, but thanks to protests from fishermen and conservationists an innovative half-open barrier was chosen:
- Normal weather: The gates remain open and the natural tidal movement is preserved.
- During storm and high tide: The gates are closed and Zeeland is protected from flooding.
Visit & experience
Along the barrier runs the N57, a route you can follow by car, bike or bus offering stunning views of the North Sea and the Oosterschelde.
- Deltapark Neeltje Jans: On the artificial working island Neeltje Jans lies a theme park where you can learn all about the construction and functioning of the Delta Works. You can even look inside the barrier.
- Delta Experience: An impressive 4D animation where you relive the North Sea Flood of 1953 as if you were there.
- Disaster 1953 Expo: A gripping exhibition with eyewitness accounts, photos and audio fragments about the disaster and its victims.
- Film Delta-Finale: Footage of the disaster and the construction of the Delta Works, available in multiple languages.
- Family activities: Besides the educational exhibitions, there are seal and sea lion shows, a water slide, an aquarium and boat trips.
- Opening hours: Check the website of Deltapark Neeltje Jans for current times and admission fees.
Why you shouldn’t miss this
The Oosterschelde barrier is not only a technical marvel, but also a symbol of Dutch ingenuity and perseverance in the fight against the water.
- The chance of flooding in Zeeland has been reduced by the barrier from once every 80 years to once every 4,000 years.
- The concrete is designed for a lifespan of 200 years.
- The steel gates are 45 metres wide and weigh thousands of tonnes.
- Visitors from all over the world come to admire this structure.
Practical information
- Location: Between Schouwen-Duiveland and Noord-Beveland, in the heart of Zeeland.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible by car or bike via the N57. Parking is available at Deltapark Neeltje Jans.
Visit the Oosterschelde storm surge barrier and Deltapark Neeltje Jans and relive the story of the North Sea Flood, the construction of the Delta Works and the impressive power of the water.
This is a place you must see at least once in your lifetime!
Buy tickets in advance now
For information
Stormvloedkering
Faelweg 5, Vrouwenpolder
web. More information
Display Eastern Scheldt storm surge barrier