The Western Scheldt witnessed a successful trial run with the MSC Tessa achieving a record-breaking draft of 16 meters upon its entry into the Port of Antwerp this morning. This accomplishment marks the latest in a series of six trial runs aimed at systematically increasing the draft from 15.7 to 16 meters, a crucial requirement for accommodating the largest container ships in the future. The collaborative pilot project involves the Flemish and Dutch Pilotage Services, MSC shipping company, the Joint Nautical Authority, and Port of Antwerp-Bruges.
Antwerp’s aspiration to become the primary port of call for the largest seagoing vessels necessitates a draft of 16 meters on approach. To realize this goal, a strategic decision was made to conduct trial runs gradually increasing the maximum draught. This elevation not only enhances vessel cargo capacity but could potentially result in gains of approximately 1,000 TEUs. Noteworthy drafts include the MSC Regulus at 15.7 meters on March 1, 2021, the MSC Diletta setting a new record at 15.9 meters on July 9, 2022, and the latest achievement on October 2, 2023, with the MSC Tessa successfully completing the first trial run at the targeted 16 meters. This initiative is a joint effort involving the Flemish and Dutch pilots, MSC, the Joint Nautical Authority, traffic controllers, and Port of Antwerp-Bruges, specifically impacting container ships navigating to the Deurganck dock.
Image source: https://newsroom.portofantwerpbruges.com/port-of-antwerp-bruges-draught-record-broken-at-deurganck-dock