Sluizencomplex Terneuzen

Sluizencomplex Terneuzen is a lock system at the mouth of the Western Scheldt that connects the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal to the North Sea. The complex features three separate locks of varying dimensions to accommodate different vessel sizes navigating between Belgium and the Netherlands.

The canal and its original two locks were built between 1823 and 1825 to link Ghent with the North Sea. A third lock was added later to accommodate the increasing vessel traffic through the waterway.

The lock complex represents Dutch engineering excellence in water management, connecting maritime communities across the Netherlands and Belgium borders.

The best way to observe the facility is from public viewpoints along the banks, which offer clear views of the locks and passing vessels. Visiting during daytime hours gives you better visibility of the ship movements and locking operations.

The two original locks were remarkably narrow by today's standards, measuring just 8 and 12 meters wide. This shows how vessel size has grown dramatically, making the later addition of a larger lock a practical necessity.