The City of Ostend Renovates Horizon Educatief

The City of Ostend Renovates Horizon Educatief

Shrimps and North Sea fishermen are undeniably part of the DNA of the coast. Unfortunately, the story of the shrimp remains unknown to most locals and visitors. Fishing boats are rarely seen from the quay.

Experience the North Sea Shrimp

That’s why the relaunch project ‘Experience the North Sea Shrimp’ aims to make this tradition visible again. Along the Belgian coast, local fishermen still land shrimps in an authentic way. This project will enhance the culinary experience by making this story more accessible and visible. Additionally, it represents a significant added value for the coast as a tourist destination.

One of the ways this project brings the story of the shrimp to life is by renovating the infrastructure of the Horizon Educatief center. Specifically, the area dedicated to shrimp fishing has been completely renovated.

- The renovation of Horizon Educatief not only strengthens the tourist attractions of Ostend but also our local economy. Thanks to the upgraded infrastructure, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the world of shrimp fishers, which also sparks interest in purchasing shrimp from our local fishermen. This demonstrates how different policy domains can strengthen each other and together contribute to an enriched overall experience of our city. Charlotte Verkeyn, Alderman for Economy and Entrepreneurship

- When thinking of the coast, one thinks of shrimp. Our brave fishermen often get up early to catch fresh shrimp. With this investment, we present the story of the North Sea shrimp in a unique way. Young and old will learn how shrimp fishers work and can even try their hand at it. Another tourist attraction that adds significant value to our coast. Melissa Depraetere, Flemish Minister of Tourism.

New Infrastructure at Horizon Educatief

The multipurpose hall has been transformed into two multifunctional spaces separated by a partition with showcases that highlight various aspects of the sea. There is also a new exit for easy access to the beach with the fishing equipment, as well as fully renovated restrooms, including a toilet for people with disabilities. Finally, the contractor has added extra ventilation to ensure all workshops and activities can take place in complete comfort.

Horizon Educatief has been making everyone "crazy about the sea" for years by organizing unique activities by the sea. For example, the shrimp fishing workshop is offered to organizations and companies looking for a fun experience. Families, friend groups, schools, and associations also head to the sea with our experienced fishermen. Thanks to this new infrastructure, we can properly prepare every visitor for their journey at sea with waders, high boots, and a shrimp net to later view the catch and enjoy it culinary. An experience not to be missed!
Horizon Educatief

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The architectural firm A1Ar designed the project, and the contractor FDK bv carried out all the works. The City of Ostend invested €250,000, with €140,000 funded by Toerisme Vlaanderen. The works started on Monday, September 30, 2024, and were completed by the end of January 2025.

This project was made possible with the support of Toerisme Vlaanderen.