The NMBS used thirteen extra trains, but travelers often had to stand still in overcrowded wagons. “There were work on the Kennedytunnel, so going by car was not an option,” says travelers.
On the beach it was pleasantly busy with many umbrellas, sun lovers and beachgoers who were looking for cooling in the North Sea. Nevertheless, major incidents were not forthcoming. “We currently have four of the thirteen rescue posts open,” says Jonathan Devos, main rescue of Ostend. “We ask people to just swim in guarded zones, but that is not always obvious to check.”
The hospitality industry by the sea also saw a lot of passage, although the big peak moment was not for the time being. “We had prepared well with extra staff,” says Leo Deklerck, catering operator in Ostend. “The weather has been good for two weeks, so the real rush was not over today. Maybe it will come tonight.”