Port Esbjerg significantly expands its capacity: Fairway deepened to 12.8 metres
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After years of preparation and large-scale construction work, the fairway to Port Esbjerg has now been fully deepened. The upgrade enables access for larger vessels, increased cargo volumes, and new strategic opportunities in both the energy and defence sectors.
“The deepening of the fairway marks a major milestone. It expands our overall capacity and unlocks new potential for the future,” says Dennis Jul Pedersen, CEO of Port Esbjerg.
Millions of cubic metres moved
This is a project of significant magnitude. An enormous amount of sand has been dredged, excavated and relocated. In total, 3,702,000 cubic metres of seabed material were moved as part of the project, increasing the water depth from 9.3 to 12.8 metres. While 2.5 metres may not sound like much, the impact is transformative — both nationally and internationally.
“This is a milestone that strengthens our position as an international hub for logistics and energy,” says Dennis Jul Pedersen. CEO of Port Esbjerg.
1. More cargo, larger vessels:
The increased depth allows Port Esbjerg to accommodate significantly larger and heavier vessels. The port now expects to double its cargo volume over the next decade.
2. Strengthens offshore wind leadership:
Future offshore wind installation vessels and components are becoming larger and heavier. The new fairway ensures that Port Esbjerg can maintain — and grow — its position as Europe’s leading port for offshore wind shipments.
3. Enhances military readiness:
One of only a few in Europe
With this upgrade, Port Esbjerg joins an exclusive group of European ports capable of handling this class of ships and cargo. The port is now well-positioned to play an active role in the global logistics shifts driven by geopolitical developments and changing global trade patterns.
“We are already seeing that several partners and companies within the maritime sector are in need of ports that can accommodate significantly larger vessels. This is no longer something lying in the future – it is here and now. And now, Port Esbjerg is ready.” says Dennis Jul Pedersen.