One of the world’s biggest, floating open air swimming pool named Badboot will open on the Eilandje in Antwerp (Antwerp Docklands) in mid-August. The floating structure, with a total length of 120 metres, can accommodate 600 people and consists of a swim basin, two event venues, several floors and a restaurant with a lounge terrace.

Designed by architect Pieter Peerlings together with partner Silvia Mertens of Sculp(IT) Architects (known for designing the narrowest house in Antwerp), the project has been conceived jointly by Philip De Prest, managing director of V-Zit bvba, with the City of Antwerp.

Whilst outdoor, floating swimming pools are found in Berlin, Paris and Copenhagen, the Badboot differs from all other European precedents by being significantly larger with a 40 metre (almost Olympic size) pool. The Badboot can also be moved around the city to other sites and will be open throughout the year. In winter, however, the pool will function as an ice rink and venue for other winter sporting activities such as curling.

The vessel is currently being built as an integrated structure in Maasbracht, the Netherlands, by the HSS yard and on completion will return to Belgium.

Site view

The structure will be also used as a venue for events and parties.

Restaurant and cafe