Zeeland
Travel Advice for Seniors: Zeeland
We arrived back in the Netherlands after a brief foray into Belgium. We docked in Zeeland, for a visit to the Delta Works Storm Surge Barrier and Museum.
In January of 1953, a massive storm and storm surge devastated Zeeland, causing 1,835 deaths and destroying 10,000 buildings. The Dutch Delta Act was passed in 1958, which includes a barrier system of dams and gates across the sea. The Delta Works were directly implemented as a result of this Act.
The Delta Works is a large-scale flood protection system designed to control the flow of water from the North Sea into the Dutch delta area. The dams, sluices, locks, dykes, levees and storm surge barriers were built 1954 and 1997. The purpose being to shorten the Dutch coastline, thereby reducing the number of dikes that had to be raised. It was declared one of the Severn Wonders of the Modern World by the American Society of Civil Engineers.
The museum features exhibitions and tours around the Oosterschelde storm surge barrier, a key part of the Delta Works flood protection system. The museum here has videos, maps and exhibits of how the flood happened, who it affected and workings of the new system. It was a fascinating museum.
Interestingly, 26% of the Netherlands is below sea level and still susceptible to flooding About 20% of the land area in Netherlands has been reclaimed from the sea. Called polders, this land has been reclaimed and is further protected by dikes. IJsselmeer is the most famous polder project of the Netherlands.
It was an educational afternoon not only due to the technical aspects, but also on the history of the country and their constant struggle with water.
Where we stayed: Onboard a river vessel.
How we got there: Sailed from Bruges, Belgium. This was part of a ten-day river cruise at Tulip Season, beginning in Amsterdam, cruising through Belgium and ending in Amsterdam.
General Accessibility Information: Major tourist sites, newer hotels, transportation and most cities are accessible. Many museums offer free or discounted admission for people with disabilities and their caregivers. Accessible travel services offer mobility equipment, accessible hotels, and customized tours. Historic parts of cities may have cobbled streets, and some restaurants may have narrow corridors. Call in advance to verify and make specialty arrangements. See our sections on specialty apps and accessible travel for more on accessibility assistance.
