Key Port Facts
Port of Antwerp-Bruges
Fuel Grades Available at Antwerp
Seven Ocean procures the following marine fuel grades at Antwerp. Click any grade for full technical specifications.
Delivery Methods
- Barge (primary)
- Truck-to-ship for smaller stems
- Ship-to-ship alongside
Primary Berths & Anchorages
Antwerp dock complex, Scheldt-side berths, and designated bunker anchorages
Bunkering at Antwerp
ARA market structure
Antwerp trades as part of the ARA range (Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Antwerp), so product and barges move fluidly between the three hubs and pricing tracks closely across them. Antwerp's edge is its enormous refining and petrochemical cluster — one of the largest integrated complexes in the world — which keeps physical product locally available, and a dense population of licensed barge operators.
Alternative fuels
As a core ARA hub, Antwerp offers bio-VLSFO blends and is expanding LNG and methanol bunkering in step with Rotterdam. The port has set out a clear multi-fuel transition strategy, making it a practical stem point for owners meeting FuelEU Maritime and EU ETS obligations.
Regulatory environment
EU ETS and FuelEU Maritime both apply to vessels calling Antwerp. The Port of Antwerp-Bruges enforces a formal bunker licensing regime with strict HSE standards; third-party surveyors are commonly appointed on delivery.
What to expect operationally
Nomination is typically 3–5 days for standard grades. Stems can be taken at berths within the Antwerp dock system and at designated Scheldt anchorages. Winter north-westerly weather can occasionally affect barge scheduling in the outer areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Antwerp cheaper than Rotterdam for bunkers?
Prices track closely across the ARA range because product and barges move between the three hubs. Small day-to-day differentials of a few dollars per tonne exist, but they rarely justify the port dues and transit time of relocating for bunkers alone.
Which fuel grades can I take at Antwerp?
VLSFO, HSFO, LSMGO and MGO are routinely available, with LNG and bio-VLSFO blends on nomination. Antwerp's refining cluster means physical product is usually locally produced rather than imported.
How does EU ETS affect my bunker costs at Antwerp?
The EU Emissions Trading System applies to CO₂ emitted on intra-EU voyages and 50% of emissions on voyages to/from non-EU ports. The fuel is not taxed under ETS, but the carbon cost of burning it is — which can add materially to voyage cost and is typically passed through in charter terms.
Does Antwerp offer truck-to-ship bunkering?
Yes, for smaller stems (typically under 500 tonnes), truck delivery is available particularly for LSMGO and MGO at inner berths. For larger stems or HSFO grades, barge delivery is standard.