Van Cauwelaertsluis, Maritime lock in Port of Antwerp, Belgium.
Van Cauwelaertsluis is a lock in the Port of Antwerp that manages water levels between different harbor sections. It handles inland vessel traffic regularly and accommodates sea vessels when other locks undergo maintenance.
The lock opened in 1928 as Kruisschanssluis with King Albert I aboard the inaugural vessel. It represented one of Belgium's early major public works projects.
The lock is named after Frans Van Cauwelaert, the Antwerp mayor who oversaw the northern harbor expansion. His name reflects his important role in developing the port infrastructure.
You can observe the lock from the waterfront to watch vessels pass through. Check VHF channels if you need to understand operational details for the best viewing times.
Since 2000, the lock primarily serves inland navigation and accepts sea vessels only during maintenance of other locks. This specialization makes it a key element in the port's daily logistics.
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