The expansion, implemented at the end of September, builds on the company’s earlier capacity increase on the Tilbury–Europoort route in March 2025, which lifted available space by up to 60 per cent.
The latest upgrade further strengthens operations between the UK and the Netherlands. Two dedicated vessels, Norsky and Norstream, are now deployed on the route, supported by extended port turnaround times that allow up to 20 additional freight units per sailing.
Sailing schedules have also been optimised to ensure evening departures from both ports, improving service reliability and enabling faster cargo handling. In addition, the Europoort terminal now opens at 07:00 local time to facilitate earlier deliveries and collections for hauliers.
Zeebrugge–Tilbury expansion
P&O Ferries has also increased the number of weekly sailings between Zeebrugge and Tilbury from 18 to 20.
The move is designed to provide greater flexibility for freight customers and to support scalable growth in line with demand from European operators.
Strong customer demand
Commenting on the expansion, Andrias Justinussen, Chief Growth Officer at P&O Ferries, said:
“This expansion marks another decisive step in our growth journey. Strong customer demand has clearly shown the need for this service. It won’t be our last move in the North Sea — we’ll keep investing in smarter, scalable freight solutions that anticipate our customers’ evolving needs. By boosting capacity, optimising schedules, and improving terminal access, we’re not just moving goods — we’re helping European businesses grow and compete.”
The company said the improvements form part of its long-term strategy to enhance freight reliability and capacity across key UK–continental Europe trade corridors.
