Hotel De Zeevaartschool : Historic maritime building gets second life as contemporary hotel concept

On Wednesday 4 June, Hotel De Zeevaartschool, a new hotel concept combining historical heritage and modern hospitality, will open in Vlissingen. Housed in the former nautical college building on Boulevard Bankert, the hotel marks an example of successful redevelopment within the Dutch hotel sector.

Maritime school transforms into characterful hotel on the coast

In Vlissingen, an iconic national monument is getting new life. The former building of the Hogere Zeevaartschool, in use from 1952 and later known as the De Ruyter Maritime Institute, has been transformed into Hotel De Zeevaartschool: a stylish 70-room hotel on the Vlissingen coast.

The name 'De Ruyterschool', awarded in honour of Michiel de Ruyter, still carries historical significance in the region. That history remains palpable: some original elements such as the staircase and maritime details have been preserved and give the hotel its own recognisable character.

The redevelopment is an initiative by Joost van Damme, which brings together heritage and contemporary hospitality in a special way with this new addition. A unique location where past and comfort reinforce each other.

Target group segmentation and room concepts

The hotel caters to both leisure and business guests and offers a carefully thought-out room layout. The double rooms form the basis of the offer and have all modern conveniences, with sea or city views. They combine comfort with a characteristic atmosphere, matching the maritime environment.

For those looking for extra luxury and space, there are the Captain's Rooms. These rooms feature high-quality facilities such as a double shower, a separate bathtub and panoramic views over the estuary of the North Sea. With direct access to the promenade, they are the perfect choice for guests looking to combine relaxation and experience.

In addition, the hotel has a number of functionally furnished Sailor rooms. These offer a practical and affordable option for guests who come mainly to explore the area. 

The hotel thus caters to different stay motives, from short city breaks and business trips to longer stays by the sea.

Compact hospitality formula with potential

Upon entering the hotel, there is a cosy restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. There is a select menu of dishes that revolve around quality, good produce and efficient operation. Although the primary focus is on serving hotel guests, the restaurant is also open to passers-by and offers potential for further expansion towards the local market.

The operation of the restaurant is fully integrated controlled from the hotel, ensuring a streamlined service and operational synergy between kitchen and service.

Distinctive heritage concept

With this development, operator Onilio | Original hospitality is responding to the growing demand within the hospitality sector for unique accommodation concepts with character. The decision to repurpose a historic maritime national monument into a hotel is in line with a broader movement in which heritage sites are given new life within the hotel segment. For the city of Vlissingen, this means not only a tourist boost, but also the preservation of a meaningful building within the city structure.

Joost van Damme, initiator and owner of the project, explains:
"This national monument has always been a leading building for Vlissingen, both in appearance and significance. We felt it deserved a new interpretation that does justice to its history. While retaining the original elements, we were able to transform it into a place where comfort, character and hospitality come together. In this way, the history remains tangible, but it is also given a new function that is accessible to a wide audience."

Onilio strengthens regional presence

With the opening of Hotel De Zeevaartschool, Onilio is further expanding its position in Zeeland. The hospitality group is known for its strong focus on local anchoring and guest experience. Hotel De Zeevaartschool fits within that strategy and is positioned as a characterful hotel that stands out within the regional and national market.