The Antwerp and Rotterdam ports have been affected by a Pilot and Lasher strike, causing major disruptions in both ports, and affecting WEC Lines’ schedules.
Rotterdam Update: Lasher Strike
The lasher strike announced last Wednesday was suspended again this Monday. Lashers have been ordered back to work up until this Friday, whilst they are looking for a settlement. If no solution is found by then, the lashers can resume the strike on Friday, October 17.
For WEC Lines, the impact will be specifically felt on our NWC – Portugal service calling Rotterdam weekly. We are planning to omit Rotterdam and look for alternative solutions within this service.
Belgium Port Update: Pilot and National Strike
In Belgium, the Pilot strike is still ongoing and additionally, on 14 October, Belgium is affected by a national strike. Significant disruptions continue to affect the Port of Antwerp and Bruges operations. Vessel congestion continues to rise, with dozens of ships awaiting entry or departure.
For WEC Lines, the impact will be specifically felt on our NWC – Portugal and NWC – Spain services calling Antwerp weekly. WEC De Hoogh has been waiting for a window in Antwerp since 6 October with no berth confirmation still today. Consequently, WEC Lines will omit the Port of Antwerp with WEC De Hoogh until the situation improves.
Rest assured that WEC Lines is doing everything possible to minimize the impact of the situation.
Please do not hesitate to contact your local WEC Lines representative for further information.
Thank you for your continued support.
