The Crystal Ship

Since 2016 The Crystal Ship transforms the coastal city of Ostend into a lively, open-air art gallery. What began as a festival has meanwhile grown into a permanent world-class collection with more than seventy giant murals, statues and intimate art interventions spread across the entire city. In the spring of 2027, traditionally around the Easter holiday, a new selection of renowned world artists and local top talent settles in Ostend. Spectators can see the artists at work live during the festival on gigantic scaffolding and cherry pickers, while gray facades transform into breathtaking canvases. The new artworks seamlessly connect with the existing trail, which can be viewed for free all year round. Whether you choose a relaxed city walk through the center or a bike ride along the Lighthouse District and the hinterland: The Crystal Ship lets you discover Ostend through a completely different, colorful lens.