Ever wondered how Zeebrugge continues to uphold its reputation as a deep-sea port on the North Sea?
Zeebrugge has once again proven its capability to handle some of the world’s largest container ships. The Ever Greet, an ocean giant measuring nearly 400 meters in length, successfully docked at the West Flanders port, surpassing previous draft records. This milestone underscores the port’s strategic importance and the meticulous coordination required to accommodate such massive vessel
The bustling port of Zeebrugge, renowned for its deep-sea docking capabilities, welcomed a new record when the Ever Greet, an Ultra Large Container Ship (ULCS), docked with a draft of 16.3 meters. This monumental event, facilitated by exceptional teamwork and precise navigation, highlights the port’s readiness for the largest container ships on the high seas.
Below the surface, the Ever Greet’s dimensions are staggering: 399.98 meters long and 58.80 meters wide, carrying a substantial cargo of 17,989 TEU. The significance of these additional centimeters in draft cannot be overstated, as they enable ships to transport more cargo, bolstering global trade efficiency. The Ever Greet’s journey from Sri Lanka to Zeebrugge, and subsequently to Antwerp, is a testament to the intricate planning and expertise involved in modern maritime logistics.
The Arrival of the Ever Greet
When the Ever Greet approached the Wandelaar, the floating pilot station in the North Sea, it marked the beginning of a meticulously coordinated operation. Coastal pilots from the Agency Maritime Services and Coast (MDK) were tasked with navigating the vessel through the challenging waters leading to Zeebrugge. This required an acute awareness of tidal windows and currents, especially given the narrow ‘Pas van Zand’ approach channel, which is only 300 meters wide. The ship, nearly 400 meters long and 59 meters wide, demanded precise handling, and thus, two top-category coastal pilots were assigned to ensure its safe passage.
Achieving the Draft Record
Docking a vessel with a 16.3-meter draft is no small feat. To put this into perspective, the Ever Greet’s draft was 10 centimeters deeper than the previous record. Upon arrival, 400 TEU were unloaded in Zeebrugge, slightly reducing the ship’s draft to 16 meters and enabling it to continue to the Deurganckdok in Antwerp. This careful management of cargo and draft levels is crucial for safe and efficient port operations.
Collaborative Efforts and Expertise
Nathalie Balcaen from the Agency Maritime Services and Coast (MDK) praised the exemplary teamwork that made this docking possible. She emphasized the critical role played by coastal pilots and maritime guidance colleagues, along with the Technical Committee Zeebrugge, who prepared and monitored the ship’s entry from the radar tower. The successful docking of the Ever Greet underscores the importance of collaboration and expertise in maritime operations.
Zeebrugge’s Strategic Importance
Dirk De fauw, Mayor of Bruges and Vice Chairman of Port of Antwerp-Bruges, highlighted the significance of this depth record. He noted that it affirms Zeebrugge and the Port of Antwerp-Bruges’ readiness to accommodate the largest, heaviest-loaded container ships globally. This achievement is not just a record but a demonstration of the port’s strategic foresight and investment in infrastructure to support global trade.
The Last of the G-Type Ships
George Wang of Evergreen Taiwan reflected on the significance of the Ever Greet’s call at Zeebrugge and Antwerp. As the last of the G-type ships, its arrival symbolizes a close friendship and strategic partnership. Evergreen Taiwan’s decision to have this final and best G-ship call at these ports highlights the importance of Zeebrugge and Antwerp in global shipping routes.
Antwerp’s Milestone
The Port of Antwerp recently increased its maximum draft to 16 meters, marking another significant development. Earlier this year, the MSC Aurora was the first ship with this draft to enter under regular admission policy after a successful passage on the Western Scheldt. This milestone involved extensive preparation over three years by various partners, including MDK, the Joint Nautical Authority, and shipping companies. The coordinated efforts of ship agents, towage services, container services, and boatmen are crucial in this logistical chain.
The successful docking of the Ever Greet at Zeebrugge highlights the port’s exceptional capabilities and the intricate teamwork required to manage such a massive vessel. This event reaffirms Zeebrugge’s strategic importance in global maritime logistics and its readiness to handle the largest container ships in the world. With continuous improvements and collaborative efforts, Zeebrugge and Antwerp remain pivotal hubs in international shipping, supporting the seamless flow of global trade.
“Successfully guiding an ocean giant with that draft into Zeebrugge requires excellent teamwork. Our coastal pilots and colleagues from Maritime Guidance did a great job.”
– Nathalie Balcaen, MDK
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