't Bassin marina

In the heart of Maastricht’s old inner harbour lies the ‘t Bassin marina. Where inland vessels once came and went, pleasure craft now moor amongst historic warehouses and characteristic wharf cellars. The buildings lining the water still serve as a reminder of the time when ‘t Bassin played a key role in Maastricht’s trade and industry.

From inland harbour to marina
't Bassin was constructed in the early 19th century as an inland harbour and played a key role in Maastricht’s trade and industrial development. Raw materials and goods were brought in via this harbour for the factories in the surrounding area, including those of Sphinx. The historic warehouses and characteristic wharf cellars along the water’s edge still serve as a reminder of this period.

Following the decline of industrial activity, the area was given a new purpose. The former inner harbour was transformed into a modern marina, whilst the historic buildings were repurposed for hospitality, shops and cultural facilities. Furthermore, since 2019, the marina has continuously held the Blue Flag, an international award for clean, safe and sustainably managed marinas.

Right in the heart of city life
Restaurants, outdoor cafés and old industrial buildings are situated around the harbour. Former factory buildings now house, amongst other things, Lumière Cinema and the Muziekgieterij . As a result, several buildings around the former inner harbour have now been given a new purpose.

Throughout the year, various events take place around the harbour, including the annual Bassin Concert. On sunny days, the terraces along the water fill up and the old harbour area becomes much livelier.

What is there to see?
From the quays, the moored boats, historic warehouses and characteristic wharf cellars are clearly visible. It is precisely along the quays that the past of ‘t Bassin is still recognisable: the harbour is now used by pleasure craft, whilst many buildings from the era of trade and industry have remained standing.

Fun fact
The characteristic wharf cellars along ‘t Bassin were once used to store goods brought in via the inland harbour. Today, they are home to restaurants, cafés and other hospitality venues.