Overview
Watersportvereniging Arne was founded on Walcheren on 28 October 1961 and has grown to over 1,200 members, one of the largest water sports clubs in the Netherlands; it turns 65 in 2026. The club has two harbours: Middelburg’s historic town harbour on the Walcheren canal (280 boxes, the De Kemel clubhouse in a former VOC warehouse) and the Oostwatering near Veere on the Veerse Meer (320 boxes, four slipways and about 200 dry places). It runs the Dutch open J/24 championship (2026), the Veerse Meer Bokaal in Polyvalks between the clubs on the lake, winter races and a summer series, and Optimist youth sailing.
- Founded
- 1961
- Members
- about 1,200 (club figure)
- admin@wvarne.nl
- Phone
- +31 118 638 861
On the water with VesselSOS
- Family see you from shoreA live link in any browser – they don’t need the app.
- One tap to the right rescue centreThe app finds the rescue centre for where you are, with your position and call script even without signal.
- Return-time checkIf you’re not back in time, your people know.
- Shared hazard mapRocks, nets and other hazards reported by other boaters.
Regattas and series
Run or hosted by the club, per the club website. Dates and notices are on the club site.
- Dutch open J/24 championship 202610 races on the Veerse Meer, 24–26 October 2026
- Veerse Meer Bokaalannual team race in Polyvalks between the clubs on the Veerse Meer
- Winter series
- Charity Cup
Live map, a start clock on every phone and results — when the club runs a race on VesselSOS Racing, it shows up here. Racing is a pilot with clubs for the 2027 season.
No race running right nowSee VesselSOS RacingSailing school and courses
Boat classes
History and achievements
- 1961Founded on 28 October
- 202665th anniversary
Home harbour & location
- Position
- 51°29.99′ N 3°37.33′ E
51.49982, 3.62221 - Address
- Balkengat 35
Frequently asked
Can I learn to sail here?
Yes. The club lists these courses: Youth sailing (Optimist, from age 8).
When was Arne Water Sports Club founded?
In 1961.
Which regattas does the club run?
According to the club website, among others: Dutch open J/24 championship 2026, Veerse Meer Bokaal, Winter series and Charity Cup.