Last updated: 23 October 2026

Antwerp is one of the easiest freighter departure ports to reach from the UK, just under two hours from London by Eurostar to Brussels and a short train ride on. Now part of the merged Port of Antwerp-Bruges, it is Europe’s second-busiest container port and a major hub for ro-ro ships to Africa and South America. Here’s what you need to know.

Passenger availability varies by voyage.

Read cargo ship to West Africa and cargo ship to South America.

The port of Antwerp-Bruges

Antwerp’s port stretches for kilometres along the river Scheldt north of the city. Container ships use terminals on both banks, including the big Deurganck dock. Ro-ro ships, which carry cars, trucks and machinery, use dedicated terminals.

Sailing down the Scheldt to the North Sea takes several hours and passes through the Netherlands before reaching open water.

Getting to Antwerp from the UK

• By train: Eurostar from London to Brussels (about 2 hours), then a train to Antwerp Centraal (about 40 minutes)
• By car: ferry or Eurotunnel to Calais, then about 2.5 hours’ drive
• By ferry: Hull to Rotterdam or Harwich to Hook of Holland, then by train

Antwerp Centraal station is one of the most beautiful in Europe, so allow time to look.

Boarding day

1. Wait for your agent’s confirmation of the boarding time.
2. Take a taxi to the terminal. Public transport doesn’t reach most terminals.
3. Show your passport and booking at the gate.
4. You’ll be escorted to the ship.

A day in Antwerp

• The cathedral with its Rubens paintings
• The MAS museum, with views over the port
• The historic Grote Markt
• Belgian chocolate, beer and frites

Tips

1. Stay flexible, as departure can move.
2. Choose a central hotel near Antwerp Centraal.
3. Travel light.

Other departure ports: freighter travel from Hamburg and freighter travel from the UK. Learn more about what a ro-ro ship is.

Frequently asked questions