The River Scheldt is one of the world's busiest rivers. Every day, several seagoing vessels share this open estuary between Flushing and Antwerp with inland barges and river cruises. This tidal river ebbs and flows, so water levels vary considerably. Low tide exposes scores of sandbanks. Moreover, this river is prone to sometimes treacherous currents.

The number of river cruises on the River Scheldt is growing year by year. High wave impacts and collisions form a real risk, all the more so because these ships are a vulnerable group due to their construction and the high numbers of persons on board. The Joint Nautical Authority gives special attention to this river cruises.