The new pontoon, a key component of the redevelopment of Antwerp's quays, is currently under construction at Smulders in Hoboken. The city is simultaneously preparing the installation site at the Steenplein. With an estimated cost of 13 million euros, funded by the City of Antwerp, the project aims to significantly enhance the passenger experience. A spacious transition platform and a new, wide access bridge will facilitate easy and comfortable access to the pontoon, while a canopy will offer shelter from the elements.
Flemish Minister of Mobility, Public Works, Ports and Sport Annick De Ridder highlighted the necessity of this modernization. "The current pontoon, an important docking point since 2008, sees increasing passenger numbers for DeWaterbus and the Sint-Annaveer. Larger and more modern infrastructure is therefore essential." The new pontoon will be 150 meters long, 50 meters longer than the current one, and will weigh approximately 1.76 million kilograms, accommodating four boats simultaneously, compared to the current three.
The construction, primarily of steel, is being assembled at Smulders in Hoboken. After the installation of the canopy, the entire pontoon will be sailed from Hoboken via the Schelde to the Steenplein in spring 2027 and connected to the new infrastructure. If the schedule is met, passengers can start using the new pontoon from spring 2027. The current pontoon will be temporarily relocated to the Cruise Terminal, where two temporary pontoons will be available. DeWaterbus and the Sint-Annaveer will continue to operate as much as possible during the works, with adjusted boarding and disembarking points and a brief interruption on October 27.
Antwerp's Alderman for Mobility Koen Kennis added: "With this new pontoon, we are investing in extra capacity and more comfort for passengers. This prepares the Steenplein for the further growth of water transport and strengthens a key gateway to the city."
The works include preparatory activities from October 22 to 26, 2026. From October 27 to November 13, the temporary section of the pontoon will be removed and relocated. On Tuesday, October 27, there will be no water transport to and from the Steenplein between 8:45 AM and 2:30 PM. From November 14 to November 22, the last part of the current pontoon will also be moved, meaning no more docking will be possible at the Steenplein. Passengers will board and disembark at the Cruise Terminal. On Saturday, November 14, the Cruise Terminal will be inaccessible via the Steenplein due to the arrival of Sinterklaas. From November 23, 2026, to March 31, 2027, work will be carried out on the infrastructure for the new pontoon at the Steenplein, while water transport will continue via the Cruise Terminal.
