The Mercator, a unique and historic sailing ship to visit in Ostend
The Mercator, an impressive three-master, has been moored in the marina of Ostend, Belgium since 1964.
It is undoubtedly the most famous ship in Belgium and attracts thousands of visitors every year, a must-see for young and old alike!
This 1932 museum ship was designed by Belgian polar explorer Adrien de Gerlache (1866-1934). The ship served as a training ship for the merchant fleet and was built in Leith, Scotland and launched in 1932. Although it initially had some structural problems, these were later solved. Besides its role as a school ship, the Mercator also served as a sailing ambassador at world exhibitions and ceremonies. Remarkably, the ship even brought two moai statues of Easter Island on board during its voyages. With fifteen sails and a total area of 1600 m², the Mercator could reach a speed of thirteen knots (24 km/h) in favourable sailing conditionsThis 1932 museum ship can be found between the railway station and the town hall. Designed by Belgian polar explorer Adrien de Gerlache (1866-1934), the Mercator served as a training ship for the merchant fleet. The ship was built in Leith, Scotland and launched in 1932. Although it initially had some structural problems, these were later solved. Besides its role as a school ship, the Mercator also served as a sailing ambassador at world exhibitions and ceremonies. Remarkably, the ship even brought two moai statues of Easter Island on board during its voyages. With fifteen sails and a total area of 1600 m², the Mercator could reach a speed of thirteen knots (24 km/h) in favourable sailing conditions
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