BRUGGE

• BEBGS
• Latitude: 51.2298
• Longitude: 3.22447
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in Belgium

Location: Zeebrugge 8380 Belgium

Phone number: +32 50 54 32 11

Web-site: https://portofzeebrugge.be/en

Below is a detailed description of the marine port of Brugge, also known as the Port of Zeebrugge:

General Overview:

• Name: Port of Zeebrugge
• Location: Bruges, Belgium
• Coordinates: Approximately 51°19'N latitude and 3°12'E longitude
• Type: Deep-sea port
• Operational Since: Early 20th century (development accelerated in recent decades)

Specifications and Facilities:

Harbor Structure:

• Outer Port: Accommodates large ocean-going vessels with deep drafts.
• Inner Port: Primarily used for smaller and medium-sized vessels.
• Breakwaters: Protect the port from rough seas, approximately 4 km in total length.
• Lock Systems: Used for regulating water levels and allowing vessel access to inner docking areas.

Berthing Facilities:

• Total Berths: Over 30+ commercial and cargo berths.
• Cargo Berths: Equipped with modern cranes, capable of handling containers, bulk, breakbulk, and Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) cargo.
• Passenger Berths: Facilities for cruise ships and ferries are available.

Cargo Handling:

• Container Handling: High-capacity terminals with state-of-the-art crane systems.
• Bulk Cargo: Terminals that handle coal, ores, agricultural products, and other bulk commodities.
• Ro-Ro Services: Extensive facilities for the efficient handling of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and other wheeled cargo.

Storage and Warehouses:

• Container Yards: Large areas designed for storing containers.
• Cold Storage: Facilities for perishable goods ensuring temperature control.
• Warehouses: Multiple warehouses for general cargo, including bonded warehouses.

Logistics and Connectivity:

• Rail Connections: Direct rail links to national and international networks.
• Road Access: Well-connected to the European highway system.
• Barge Services: Inland waterways facilitate barge traffic to and from the port.
• Pipeline Access: Availability for petrochemicals and LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas).

Specialized Facilities:

• LNG Terminal: Advanced infrastructure for handling liquefied natural gas.
• Automobile Terminal: Large terminal areas dedicated to vehicle import/export.

Technology and Innovation:

• Port Community System: Integrated IT systems ensuring efficient logistics and communication.
• Automation: Use of automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and other automated systems for handling cargo.

Administration:

• Port Authority: Port of Zeebrugge (Maatschappij van de Brugse Zeevaartinrichtingen)
• Hours of Operation: Operates 24/7
• Security: Complies with international security standards including ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) code.

Additional Services:

• Pilotage: Compulsory and available round-the-clock.
• Towage: Tug services available for maneuvering vessels.
• Bunkering: Refueling services for ships.
• Ship Repair and Maintenance: Facilities for minor and major repairs including dry docks.

Economic and Strategic Importance:

• Passenger Base: Important ferry terminal for passengers traveling to the United Kingdom.
• Cargo Hub: One of the major logistical hubs in Europe, significant for both import and export.
• Economic Impact: Key contributor to the Belgian economy, providing employment and facilitating trade.

Environmental Initiatives:

• Sustainability Programs: Initiatives for reducing carbon footprint.
• Waste Management: Comprehensive systems for handling ship and cargo-related waste.
• Green Award Certification: Recognition for environmentally-friendly practices.

The Port of Zeebrugge serves as a critical node in global maritime trade, efficiently integrating land, sea, and rail logistics. Its continuous development and investment in modern infrastructure ensure that it remains competitive in the global logistics chain.