3 locations, 2 countries, 1 course

Since 2018, North Sea Port has been one united port, born from the merger of Zeeland Seaports and the Port of Ghent. With eight public shareholders and one shared direction, we’re building a resilient port and region where economy, innovation and sustainability reinforce each other.

Our port runs from the North Sea to Ghent, forming the most westerly gateway to Northwest Europe. Strong multimodal routes connect us deep into Europe, the Nordics, the Mediterranean and beyond. We’re a vibrant crossroads where ships, goods and ideas keep the momentum going.

Our impact in numbers

550 + diverse companies on deck.
106 k jobs in our port. It works here!
12.7 billion in value added. It’s how we propel the economy forward.
67 million tonnes cargo throughput by sea.
61.5 million tonnes cargo via inland shipping.
9,100 hectares of port area. Spread over two countries!
60 kilometers port area.

Where is North Sea Port?

Our port stretches from the North Sea at Vlissingen, through Terneuzen, all the way to Ghent. Strategically positioned on Europe’s key transport corridors, it offers direct connections to France, Germany and the United Kingdom.

Connected by sea, rail and road, we reach deep into Europe – from the Nordics to the Mediterranean. And far beyond, our routes extend to the Americas and West Africa. So where is North Sea Port? Right at the heart of the world.

Our course

Our port is very clear about its course — and it’s working. Powered by people, connection, and impact, we’re fuelling Europe’s growth.

European engine

Our impact reaches far beyond the quays. As a leading European port, we’re a powerful engine for regional, national and European growth.

Strong port community

Trust and a personal approach — that’s what we stand for. Together with our port community, we build growth, safety, a pleasant living environment and a strong region.

#Wavemakers

Together with our team of #wavemakers, we’re shaping a sustainable, well-connected European region. Economically strong, future-focused and full of energy.

Action with impact — here’s how

Our course is clear. Through five key domains of action, we’re building a future-proof port: strong, smart and sustainable. This is how we remain a leading European port connecting people, economy and environment. Impact 2030

 


 

  • We aim to stay future-proof and among Europe’s top players. How? By anchoring companies here, supporting their growth, driving the shift to clean energy and attracting the essential goods that make it possible.

     

    Picture of the interior of a tower for an offshore wind turbine at BOW Terminal in North Sea Port’s Vlissingen sub-area.
  • Safety isn’t a side issue — it’s our anchor. As risks grow and nations face increasing pressure, we strengthen our port and its surroundings. Through targeted investments in safety, security and collaboration, we help build a resilient society.

     

    Picture of a stevedore next to a bulldozer at the DFDS roro terminal in North Sea Port’s Ghent sub-area.
  • Space in and around the port is becoming scarce. That’s why we must make smart choices in how we use it. Water-related activities and companies contributing to sustainable energy, raw materials and multimodal logistics are key.

     

    Picture of the Sifferdok in North Sea Port’s Ghent sub-area.
  • Our port runs on solid infrastructure. Together with our customers and partners, we improve access and connectivity: by rail, cross-border pipelines, roads, quays and digital innovation. That’s how we connect economy, industry and society.

     

    Picture of freight trains at the railway junction in North Sea Port’s Ghent sub-area.
  • The world is changing. That is why strong European cooperation is more important than ever. How? By connecting chains smarter: sea and inland shipping, rail and road, all in one fluid logistics system, driven by smart coordination and cooperation.

     

    Picture of Interface Terminal Gent in North Sea Port.

Experience the port up close

Our port is buzzing with activity. Curious? Hop on a boat tour, drive along the quays, or drop by one of our exhibitions and museums. Prefer a bit of calm? Head to the green edges of our port and unwind.

Boat tours

No port without water – so come and see ours from the best seat in the house: a boat! Our free tours take you to hidden spots, with a guide to tell you all the stories behind the scenes.

Tour by bus

See the Ghent side of the port from a whole new angle – on a guided bus tour! Starting at the Visitor Centre on Rigakaai, these tours are available by request.

Expos and museums

Step inside the North Sea Port Experience in Terneuzen. It’s free, fun and full of action. Or head to the muZEEum in Vlissingen to dive into centuries of seafaring stories.

Nature and recreation

Ready to grab your bike, cast a line or send up a drone? Explore what’s possible on Visit the Port.

Rainwater and Drought Plan

Our climate is changing. And we’re also noticing the impact of this at North Sea Port. To better cope with prolonged rain and drought, we have drawn up a Rainwater and Drought Plan (RWDP) for the Ghent sub-area of our port, in collaboration with the Sumaqua research agency. This plan stems directly from the Flemish Government's Blue Deal and has been specifically designed for our port area. 

Our RWDP will be added to the city of Ghent's plan and shared with the municipalities of Evergem and Zelzate. In this plan, we look ahead to 2050 and explain how we can better manage the effects of extreme weather. It includes an analysis of vulnerable areas, a strategic vision and an action plan to improve water management and collaborate with partners. We will evaluate and update this plan every six years.