In 1884, the then Belgian pilots founded an association to erect a building on the newly constructed boulevard in Flushing to promote social intercourse. That building, ‘De Belgische Loodsensociëteit’, still exists today and as a hotel-restaurant. It has a beautiful view of the Westerschelde estuary.
Pilotage in the Westerschelde estuary experienced a long competition between the Belgian and Dutch pilots after 1839. Since WWII, pilotage has been carried out in good cooperation.
The Belgian and Dutch pilots have been jointly responsible for shipping traffic to and from the Flemish ports on the Scheldt since then. Just under three quarters of the pilotage activities in the Westerschelde are carried out by Belgian pilots.
Always something to see
The said association was named Belgische Loodsensociëteit Unie, and in the current hotel-restaurant the pilots can still be found every day. The arrival and departure of the pilot boats to and from the Vlissingen inner harbour can be easily seen from the restaurant and hotel rooms.
Brigiet and partner Dennis have been the managers since 2014. A team of 20 people in total ensures the service. There is always something to see at the location: passing shipping, strolling tourists and Vlissing beach life. You can eat, drink and stay overnight in a relaxed atmosphere.
Lastingly connected
The special story of the Belgian sheds is permanently linked to the protected cityscape. The building, dating from the 19th century but largely 20th century due to bombing, is still owned by the ‘Union’. The bar is open 24 hours; even breakfast in the wee hours is a possibility.
At the same time, ‘The Belgian Pilot Society’ is a busy family hotel with regular check-in hours, and rooms with sea and city views. Both functions go well together, says Brigiet. “The night manager is in charge of breakfast at the same time. Fresh bread we do anyway. Unfortunately, like any other catering establishment, we have to abide by catering laws for outside guests, so we close for them between midnight and 8am.”
Special existence
The Belgian sheds have their own premises for overnight stays. “They work well with the Dutch colleagues – from the inner harbour a few minutes’ walk away. Outside services, both pilot groups have their own socials. The Dutch pilots sit next door in their own private room.”
“We always try to tell the story of the building and its use to the guests, for example at breakfast,” continues Brigiet, who loves catering life. “We are open all year round, basically all the time. It is a special existence, work and private life often intertwine.”
Maritime atmosphere
The maritime atmosphere is palpable in the building, whose restaurant and terrace feature sweeping views of the churning Westerschelde estuary and the ships that often pass just offshore. “Thanks to the alcoves on the terrace, you can sit outside well into autumn. That’s what people prefer to do.”
The menu also betrays a Belgian background: dishes from a cuisine that is well known, an extensive range of quality Belgian beers, it could hardly be otherwise. “We are even obliged to tap Belgian lager,” Brigiet laughs.
Quiet stay
The special double function has further advantages, for example for business guests. “At Damen Shipyards, they work irregular shifts just like the pilots. Well, those employees can also come to us. We are accessible to everyone.” The hotel is also very popular with tourists. “We find that most guests are looking for a quiet stay,” he says.
In mid-July (at the time of our conversation), all rooms at ‘The Belgian Pilot’s Society’ are occupied. Does it still make sense to book for the summer? “The best thing is to try for a Sunday or Monday, but of course you can always drop by for a bite to eat and a drink.”
