Mercator

Polar explorer Adrien de Gerlache designed this three-master that was built in Scotland. The 'Mercator' had only two commanders, completed 41 voyages, and visited 54 countries. In 1936 the Mercator retrieved Father Damien's remains. In 1960 the Mercator entered the port of Antwerp to be converted into a museum ship in 1961. Since 1964, the Mercator has been a jewel of Ostend's crown.

After thorough renovation works, which lasted a year and a half, the ship has been owned by the City of Ostend since April 1, 2017 and is part of the city's maritime heritage.