The Port of Antwerp-Bruges has made maritime history by successfully achieving a record-breaking 16-meter draught, marking a significant leap forward in its capabilities to accommodate the world’s largest container ships. The newsroom source.
- Port of Antwerp-Bruges breaks record with 16-meter draught, boosting capacity for larger container ships.
- Collaboration among stakeholders plays a crucial role in achieving this milestone.
- Achievement strengthens Antwerp’s global position and competitive advantage in handling massive vessels.
A Historic Milestone
In a groundbreaking achievement, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges has successfully completed its first trial run with a maximum draught of 16 meters on the Western Scheldt. The MSC Tessa’s arrival marked a new record and a significant step towards accommodating the world’s largest container ships.
Boosting Cargo Capacity
Increasing the authorized draught to 16 meters is a pivotal development for the port. This expansion opens doors for even larger seagoing vessels to make Antwerp their first port of call, substantially enhancing cargo capacity. The extra decimetres gained can translate into approximately 1,000 TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit) gains per voyage.
Collaborative Endeavor
The pilot project’s success was made possible through a collaborative effort involving Flemish and Dutch Pilotage Services, MSC, the Joint Nautical Authority, and the Port of Antwerp-Bruges. This initiative focused on widening the draught exclusively for container ships sailing to the Deurganck dock.
Strengthening Global Position
Annick De Ridder, Vice-Mayor of the City of Antwerp and President of the board of directors of Port of Antwerp-Bruges, emphasized the significance of this achievement. It enhances the port’s global economic standing and ensures its competitiveness in handling the largest container vessels, particularly those plying routes in the Far East. This development solidifies Antwerp’s position as a world-class port.
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