L'Esceau is a former inland barge moored on the Scheldt at the Krook in Ghent, at Kuiperskaai 24. It is hired for company events, private parties, weddings and business meetings. The boat takes up to 120 guests, and a glass meeting box on board can be hired separately on weekdays for up to 10 people.
Seminars and company events
For companies, the venue lists staff parties, product launches, team building and press presentations. The manager works out the concept with the organiser and then introduces the preferred partners who deliver it. The venue's own wording is that the concept should reflect the company culture.
For smaller groups, the glass meeting box is described as a place for a board meeting or a brainstorming session. It has views of the Krook and the Mandela promenade, a TV screen for professional presentations and room for up to 10 people. It can be hired separately on weekdays. Catering options include a business lunch or a private dinner.
Weddings and receptions
The contact form offers four types of request: corporate event, private event, wedding party and meeting. Private events on board include weddings on the water, birthdays and anniversaries. The venue works with professional partners, so the hosts do not have to arrange each supplier themselves.
Rooms and capacities
The main space is the boat itself, with a capacity of up to 120 guests. The fitting-out and equipment are described as high end, and the boat carries modern audiovisual equipment. A stretch tent is available on the deck, and in good weather the deck is used for a drink with a view of the Krook. The boat has a professionally equipped kitchen. The layout is flexible and adapts to the organiser's wishes, with basic furniture available on board.
The second space is the glass meeting box, which holds up to 10 people and has a TV screen. The main boat and the box can be considered separately for different formats.
Accommodation
The website does not mention bedrooms or accommodation.
Catering
On board, only the venue's preferred caterers are used, because they know the venue and the rules of the boat. The website names four caterers: Catering Coeur, Food Architects, Ma cuisine et moi and Sundays Catering. It also lists a styling partner, Gosh, and a party-equipment rental partner, Classic Design Rental.
History and setting
The barge was a working inland vessel before it became an event venue. It lies at the foot of the Krook, which the venue calls an architectural landmark of Ghent. The manager, Iris Landuyt, has years of experience in hospitality and event management and shows organisers around the boat.
Getting there
The boat is at Kuiperskaai 24, 9000 Gent. Parking is possible in the paid car parks Gent Zuid, Reep and Savaanstraat.
