This summer, there will, after all, be three official open-water swimming areas in the city of Ghent (East Flanders). Every day from Thursday 13 to Sunday 30 August, you can swim at the Handelsdok on the Schipperskaai, at Portus Ganda on Veermanplein and in the Keizerpark. Swimming occurs at your own risk and is prohibited for children under the age of 10.
3 open-water swimming zones to open in Ghent in August: ‘At your own risk, without lifeguards’
Colin Clapson
Published:
Last year, two attempts to organise a swimming weekend at Portus Ganda, on the Veermanplein, failed due to poor water quality. This year, the city has deliberately opted for three locations and a longer period, so that it is less dependent on water quality and the weather at any one time and place.
“We are a city with a great deal of water, and it’s a shame that people aren’t allowed to swim in it,” says alderman, Joris Vandenbroucke. “The fact that we can now ensure that people can swim at three locations along Ghent’s waterways is fantastic news for the people of Ghent.”
Rules for children and busy periods
On weekdays, you can swim from 2 pm to 8 pm; at weekends, from 12 noon to 8 pm. Booking is not required, but there is a maximum capacity: 150 swimmers at any one time at the Keizerpark, 200 at the Schipperskaai and 90 at the Veermanplein. Swimming is free of charge.
“These are designated areas with no lifeguards. Swimming is at your own risk. That is why children under the age of 10 are not allowed to swim there; children aged 10 and over are permitted, and those up to the age of 12 may only swim if accompanied by an adult,” says Vandenbroucke.
If it gets too busy, swimmers must make way for new arrivals every half hour. Lilos (inflatable air mattresses) and other floating toys are then prohibited. Pontoons, buoy lines and swim ladders will be provided on the water. Information boards, extra rubbish bins, cycle racks and toilet facilities will be available on the banks.