In a significant development for maritime infrastructure, Cosmos Van Oord, a dynamic joint venture between Cosmos Shipping and Van Oord, has clinched a pivotal dredging project at the Port of Burgas, the largest port in Bulgaria. The Bulgarian Port Authorities’ decision to select this joint venture underscores the fusion of local maritime expertise and the robust capabilities of a global marine contractor.
This strategic venture, aimed at enhancing the critical marine infrastructure in the Black Sea, aligns with Van Oord’s commitment to global excellence. By contributing to the construction of a new deep-water berth at terminal Burgas-West in the Port of Burgas, Van Oord is set to play a crucial role in reshaping container handling and storage dynamics in the region.
The scope of Van Oord’s involvement encompasses dredging the port area to a specified depth of 15.5 meters. Utilizing a backhoe dredger, approximately 1.5 million cubic meters of clay will be dredged, marking a substantial step towards the project’s completion slated for 2024.
The forward-looking aspect of this project includes the construction of a new berth tailored to accommodate the latest generation of container vessels. With an impressive draft of up to 14.5 meters and an internal volume of up to 80,000 gross registered tonnes, the new berth positions the Port of Burgas to cater to the evolving demands of the cargo shipping industry in Southeast Europe.
The significance of this venture extends beyond mere dredging; it sets the stage for the establishment of a dedicated port zone designed for efficient cargo transfer between ships and railways. Embracing eco-friendly methods, this development addresses both the operational needs of the port and the growing emphasis on sustainable practices within the maritime industry.
As the maritime landscape undergoes transformation, this collaboration not only strengthens the Port of Burgas but also exemplifies the potential that arises when local know-how and global capabilities converge. The completion of this project will mark a milestone in the evolution of the Black Sea’s maritime infrastructure, enhancing its competitiveness on the global stage.
