On 24 February 2026, five new Ship-to-Shore (STS) cranes arrived at the Europa Terminal. The installation of these cranes marks another step in the modernisation of the container terminal in Antwerp. They are not only visible evidence of progress on the ground, but also an investment in the future of the port community.

Importance of the cranes

The new STS cranes are an essential element in the future vision for the Europa Terminal. They increase operational capacity and will play a key role in the smooth and safe handling of the largest container ships.

After installation, the cranes rise 52 m high with an overwater reach of 71.8 m, thereby handling ships up to 26 containers wide. A maximum lifting capacity of 112 tons allows for faster and more efficient ship handling. They therefore support the continued growth of container traffic at the port.

The cranes are equipped with the latest technologies in safety and operations, including advanced anti-slip systems, remote diagnostics, precise controls and integrated digital monitoring. The cabs are ergonomically designed. Additional VR training environments aid continuous skill development while further enhancing safety and operational performance. Thanks to their advanced technology and sustainability specifications, the cranes contribute to a future-oriented port infrastructure.

Renewal of port terminal and wharf

Together, Artes Group, Boskalis, Herbosch-Kiere, PSA Antwerp and Port of Antwerp-Bruges are the project team behind the modernisation of the Europa Terminal. This concerns a major transformation of both the port terminal and the entire quay wall, a process expected to take 10 years.

PSA cranes Europa Terminal – copyright PSA Belgium

Since the terminal will remain operational throughout the works, the project will be implemented in three major phases.
Transformation approach

The arrival of the five new cranes allows the first phase of the project to take a giant leap forward. In this phase, we are deepening the first 500 m of the quay so that ships with a draught of up to 16 m can dock. This extra draught is necessary to continue receiving the most modern and largest container ships.

While work on the new quay wall is in full swing, preparations will be made for the first activities on the renovated quay section. These are anticipated as early as this year. After this first 500 metres, two more phases will follow: first a 250-metre section, and then the final 450 metres of the quay.

In addition to structural changes, the renovation of the terminal will also contribute to the transition towards a climate-neutral port. During the first phase, a shore power system will be provided so that docked vessels can turn off their engines and switch to on-shore electricity. This will reduce CO2 emissions and improve air quality in the port environment.
Edward Tah, Managing Director van PSA Belgium: “

This milestone reflects our long-term commitment to Antwerp as a strategic gateway and our commitment to excellence in strengthening PSA’s global network of port ecosystems. Project Emerald will increase Europa Terminal’s annual capacity by 800,000 TEU and significantly improve the efficiency, reliability and sustainability of our operations, benefiting our customers.
Source: Port of Antwerp-Bruges