Project Quay Wall Verbindingsdok Zeebrugge

Zeebrugge is a key hub for the international automotive industry. Demand for additional capacity for the handling, storage, and transshipment of vehicles continues to grow. Port of Antwerp-Bruges therefore aims to expand the available space. 

Wallenius Wilhelmsen is developing the surrounding sites, enabling the Orcelle Terminal to expand with three additional berths for RORO vessels. This will provide capacity for approximately 8000 vehicles.

Through these investments, Port of Antwerp-Bruges reinforces its position as the largest car port in the world. The works form part of the Strategic Plan for the Zeebrugge platform.

A new 400-metre quay wall will be constructed in the Verbindingsdok. Dredging works will also be carried out along the quay wall. In addition, two fendering structures will be installed, one to the north and one to the south of the dock. These structures help vessels to manoeuvre safely, reduce speed and berth securely.

In January 2023, the construction of eight tunnel elements for the new Scheldt Tunnel in Antwerp started at the Boudewijn Canal in Zeebrugge, as a part of the Oosterweel project. A temporary construction dock was built at the junction of the Boudewijn Canal and the Verbindingsdok for this purpose. Following completion of these works, the dock will receive a new purpose as a permanent port dock. 

Construction of the quay wall and the northern fendering structure is currently in progress.