Dutch Delta Works Tour
9-10 hours private tour with a private guide (car/walk):
€ 845 (1-3 people, car)
€ 995 (4-8 people, van)
Pick up at your hotel/airport in the Amsterdam area. Suggested pick-up time: 8:30 – 9:00 a.m.
Holland has always been threatened by the sea, as most of the mainland is below sea level. In 1953, a significant part of the province of Zeeland was flooded, killing almost 1,900 people. To prevent such disasters in the future, a committee was formed just three weeks after the flood to devise plans for building dikes and other structures to hold back the water. After 1953, Dutch engineers worked for over 45 years to complete these megastructures known as the Delta Works.
Tour Highlights:
1. Maeslantkering – The Storm Surge Barrier:
Our first stop on this trip to the Delta Works will be the Maeslantkering, the most recently completed structure of the Delta Works, located in Hoek van Holland, on the border between the provinces of Zuid-Holland and Zeeland. The Maeslantkering is a storm surge barrier that automatically closes when needed and is one of the largest moving structures on earth. In the visitor center, I will explain more about water management and provide details about the barrier itself.
2. Zeeland – Haringvlietsluis and Brouwersdam:
The next stop will be in the province of Zeeland. On our route, we will cross over the Haringvlietsluis and the Brouwersdam, two more of the thirteen structures that make up the Delta Works.
3. Oosterscheldekering – The Storm Surge Barrier:
After a drive of a little over an hour, we will arrive at the Oosterscheldekering, the largest structure of the Delta Works. This barrier closes when the water reaches a critical level. Nearby is the visitor center, known as Neeltje Jans Deltapark (admission fee: €28 per person). This visitor center is suitable for children and features an aquarium and live animal shows. Neeltje Jans provides an excellent view of the Delta Works and offers insight into the process of designing, building, and operating these impressive structures.
4. Veere – A Picturesque Town:
Our next stop will be in the picturesque town of Veere. This once-flooded town boasts some amazing scenery, including the old town hall, well-maintained gardens, and a small but beautiful harbor – a must-visit.
The way back to Amsterdam will take about 2 hours.
As your private tour guide, I can adjust the schedule and duration to suit your needs. Please let me know if you have any special requests.