Published on August 29, 2025
Starting in 2027, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges will enhance the Zeebrugge cruise terminal by installing shore power at the Zweedse Kaai (Swedish Quay). This upgrade will allow cruise ships to hook straight into shore electricity, significantly cutting emissions while providing a greener experience for passengers. A new high-voltage substation will power the project, addressing the rising demand for eco-friendly options in Europe’s busiest cruise ports.
Support for the initiative totals nearly €4 million in public grants: the European Commission contributes €3.1 million and the Flemish government adds €830,000. This investment underscores the region’s commitment to sustainable tourism and clean energy. When the terminal goes live in 2027, vessels will replace their onboard diesel generators with shore power, substantially lowering their environmental impact while in port.

A Green Future for Zeebrugge’s Cruise Port

Advertisement
Bringing shore power to the Zeebrugge cruise terminal is a big step forward for the Port of Antwerp-Bruges in its drive toward sustainability. The goal is to reach climate neutrality by 2050. This new power source will cut down emissions from cruise ships and help lighten the overall carbon footprint of tourism in the area. Right now, Zeebrugge contributes around 5% of the CO₂ emissions from every ship that calls at the quays in Antwerp and Zeebrugge.
The shore power project is a key part of the bigger renovation at Zweedse Kaai. Alongside the new power supply, the terminal will get a modern passenger building complete with boarding bridges. A new battery storage system is also in the works, and part of the quay will be transformed into a green retreat. These upgrades aren’t just for looks they will help the terminal run more efficiently and become one of Europe’s greenest cruise ports.

Sustainability in Cruise Travel

Shore power lets cruise ships plug directly into the local electricity grid while at the dock. By doing this, the vessels can use green energy, which sharply cuts harmful emissions. The project fits right into the European Union’s vision for cleaner, smarter travel and supports the cruise sector’s wider goal of smaller carbon footprints. Starting in 2027, travelers arriving in Zeebrugge will see a terminal that plays a real role in reaching the EU’s climate targets, making each visit a step toward a more sustainable and eco-friendly vacation.
The upgraded facilities will help Zeebrugge keep delivering top-notch services to cruise lines and visitors while steadily lowering the environmental toll of cruise tourism. More importantly, this project aims to serve as a model for ports around the globe, proving that green tourism and economic growth can sail in the same direction.

Sustainable Tourism: A Focus for Cruise Passengers

Advertisement
For cruise travelers, the new shore power connection at the Zeebrugge terminal adds an extra incentive to visit the region. Green practices aren’t just nice to have anymore; today’s tourists are asking for them. A vow by the Port of Antwerp-Bruges to cut its environmental impact means that every cruise calling here actually helps the planet. That’s a win-win for passengers who care about the footprint of their holidays.
Zeebrugge has always been a go-to port for cruise itineraries, mainly because the medieval jewel of Bruges is just a stone’s throw away. Now, the town is investing even more in renewable energy, further sharpening its appeal to eco-minded travelers. When passengers disembark, they can be confident that their visit to UNESCO-protected canals and cobblestones is being powered by the sun and wind, not by fossil fuels.
Future upgrades at the terminal promise a smoother journey, not just for ship lines but especially for tourists. Faster docking means more time in Bruges, while streamlined checkpoints make disembarking a breeze. Plus, the improvements feed right into the blossoming Confluence District, a waterfront area packed with stylish restaurants, shops, and parks already buzzing with modern energy. Here, visitors can grab a bio snack or souvenir that keeps the green momentum going right through their cruise.

Future Developments and Regional Collaboration
The new shore power station in Zeebrugge is just one element in a bigger set of upgrades planned for the city’s port infrastructure. Alongside cutting the emissions of cruise ships while they’re tied up, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges is rolling out green fuels for tugs, extending the reach of electric port services, and building energy-smart terminals. Every project is designed to weave the port into a broader, seamless travel and trade system that grows side by side with climate goals.
This joint effort is still growing. Across Antwerp-Bruges, the vision is to shape the port into a European centre for green marine and cruise travel. By marrying cutting-edge tech with deep-rooted care for the environment, the port will show how the maritime sector can adapt to rising green pressures while still supporting the economy and the public. The plan is not just to keep pace, but to lead.

Conclusion: A Green Future for Cruise Tourism in Zeebrugge
The kickoff of the shore power setup at Zeebrugge‘s cruise terminal is about to redefine how the area views tourism and transport. From now on, cruise passengers can plug in and enjoy a clean, green journey, making the cruise quite a bit lighter in carbon. This technology not only cuts emissions on-site, but it also illustrates how the port is fully in step with Europe‘s bold climate goals. As Zeebrugge carries on boosting sustainable options, eco-minded travelers will keep choosing it, reinforcing the port’s reputation as a genuinely innovative port of call on global cruise routes.

Advertisement
Tags: antwerp, Belgium, Bruges, cruise emissions reduction, eco-friendly travel Zeebrugge

I want to receive travel news and trade event update from Travel And Tour World. I have read Travel And Tour World’sPrivacy Notice.
Friday, August 29, 2025
Friday, August 29, 2025
Friday, August 29, 2025
Friday, August 29, 2025
Friday, August 29, 2025
Friday, August 29, 2025
Friday, August 29, 2025
Friday, August 29, 2025

source