Key Maritime Information about Belgium

Belgium, although relatively small in size, has a coastline of about 66 kilometers along the North Sea. This strategic location gives it a particular importance in maritime trade in Europe. The main port, Antwerp, is the second largest port in Europe in terms of container traffic and one of the busiest worldwide. Thanks to its modern infrastructures, Antwerp handles an intense flow of goods, raw materials, and plays a crucial role in the European logistics chain. In addition, other ports like Zeebrugge and Ostend complement Belgium's offerings with diversified activities, ranging from passenger transport to specialized cargoes.

Port Management and Infrastructures

The port of Antwerp, in particular, is equipped with specialized terminals for oil, gas, automobiles, as well as containers. Port management is carried out by competent authorities who ensure operational efficiency while respecting strict environmental standards. The infrastructures include deep docks capable of accommodating the largest container ships, automated handling systems, and optimal rail and road connections that facilitate intermodality. The port of Zeebrugge, for its part, positions itself as an important hub for liquefied natural gas traffic and vehicles, also benefiting from excellent connectivity. These ports continuously invest in modernization to meet the demands of global trade and ecological constraints.

Navigation and Maritime Safety in Belgium

Navigation in the North Sea, near Belgium, is particularly intense with continuous commercial traffic. Belgian authorities ensure maritime safety through advanced devices such as radar surveillance, navigation aids, and coordinated port traffic services. Pilotage is mandatory in major ports to guarantee the safety of docking and departure maneuvers of ships. Regarding environmental protection, Belgium strictly applies international conventions related to the prevention of marine pollution, including waste management from ships and the prevention of accidental spills of harmful substances. Authorities closely collaborate with neighboring countries to secure this crucial maritime area, where regional coordination is essential.

Essential Maritime Information about Belgium: Port, Navigation, and Safety

Key Maritime Information about Belgium

Major Ports

Thorntonbank

Tamines

Tilleur

Tildonk

Tisselt

Tielrode

Thuin

Tihange

Thieu

Terhagen

Tongerlo

Tergnée

Teralfene

Tertre

Tessenderlo

Ternat

Terdonk

Tournebride

Stevensvennen

Ruisbroek

Statte

Samson

Zwijnaarde

Zwijndrecht

Zwevegem

Zandvliet

Zandvoorde

Zuun (Zuen)

Zulte

Zutendaal

Zomergem

Zolder

Zele

Zingem

Zemst

Seraing

Zelzate

Zeebrugge Port

Zandbergen

Blankenberge

Bazel

Battel

Ben-Ahin

Baillonville

Auvelais

Avelgem

Anvaing

Annevoie

Antoing

Ath

Astene

Anseremme

Asper

Appelterre-Eichem

Ampsin

Appels

Antwerpen Port

Anhée

Andenne

Angleur

Amay

Antheit

Argenteau

Afsnee

Arendonk

Adinkerke

Albertkanaal ports

Aalter

Aalst

Eben-Emael

Athis

Bossuit

Baasrode

Labuissière

Bissegem

Bruyelle

Brussels Port