Anchorages on Belgian Inland Waterways

CEVNI rules apply — commercial barges have right of way

The European Inland Waterways Code (CEVNI) applies throughout Belgian inland waterways. The CEVNI booklet is mandatory on board. Commercial barges have absolute right of way — give way at all times. Call locks on VHF 10 (Flemish waterways) at least 30 minutes before arrival. Draught limits vary by route: 1.5m on Bruges ring canals, 2.5m on main canals, 3.5m at Antwerp Willemdok. Always check air draught at each bridge before entry into city canal systems. Antwerp Scheldt approach: mandatory call to Port Authority on VHF 74.