GHENT

• BEGNE
• Latitude: 51.1195
• Longitude: 3.76628
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in Belgium

Location: Ghent 9000 Belgium

Phone number: +32 9 251 05 50

Web-site: https://www.havengent.be/

Port of Ghent, Belgium - Overview and Specifications

General Overview:

The Port of Ghent, also known as North Sea Port Ghent after the merge forming the North Sea Port (units of Ghent, Terneuzen, and Vlissingen), is one of Belgium's crucial maritime hubs. It serves as a vital connecting point for various goods moving in and out of the European continent. It is situated in the Flanders region and is known for its strategic inland position, providing a gateway for inland shipping routes.

Location:

• Latitude: 51.0833 N
• Longitude: 3.7500 E
• Country: Belgium
• Region: Flanders

Key Features:

1. Accessibility: Port of Ghent is accessible through the Ghent–Terneuzen Canal which connects the port to the Western Scheldt and consequently the North Sea. This canal allows ships with up to 125,000 tonnes of cargo, making it suitable for large sea-going vessels.

2. Size and Capacity:

   • Total Area: Approximately 4,518 hectares
   • Water Depth:
     • Maximum draft: 13.5 meters (depending on the terminal)
     • Channel depth leading to the port: 14.5 meters

3. Terminals:

   • Multipurpose terminals for various cargo types (bulk, breakbulk, ro-ro, containers)
   • Specialized terminals for iron, steel, chemicals, petroleum products, and cars

4. Infrastructure:

   • Extensive warehousing and storage facilities
   • Modern cranes and loading/unloading equipment
   • Rail connections ensuring smooth intermodal transfer
   • Well-developed road connections to major European highways

5. Types of Cargo:

   • Bulk (dry and liquid)
   • General cargo
   • Containers
   • Roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro)
   • Specialized industrial cargo

6. Industries:

   • Prominent industries: Automotive, food processing, steel, chemicals, and energy
   • Houses facilities for significant global corporations

7. Services:

   • Bunkering
   • Pilotage
   • Towage
   • Repair and maintenance services

8. Environmental Initiatives:

   • Investment in sustainable infrastructure with a focus on reducing carbon emissions
   • Green energy projects including wind farms and solar installations

Port Governance:

• Managed by the North Sea Port authority, which oversees the Ghent, Terneuzen, and Vlissingen segments under a unified management structure.

Economic Contribution:

• Significant contributor to regional employment
• Facilitates crucial trade links between Belgium and other international markets
• Acts as a major hub for the distribution of goods to the European hinterland

Contact Information:

• Official Website: North Sea Port
• Phone: +32 (0) 9 251 05 50

Future Developments:

• Expanding terminal capacities and improving hinterland connections
• Implementation of smart port technologies to enhance operational efficiency
• Ongoing collaboration with environmental agencies for sustainable development

The Port of Ghent continues to be a pivotal maritime gateway, showcasing robust infrastructure, diverse capabilities, and a strong focus on sustainability and innovation.