The Port of Hamburg has announced a €1.1 billion investment plan aimed at improving access to the Elbe River leading to Waltershofer Hafen and expanding container yard infrastructure.

The upgrades are expected to streamline navigation to the Burchardkai Container Terminal (CTB) and Hamburg Container Terminal (CTH), enhancing efficiency and speeding up operations. The newly developed areas will support container terminal operations, increasing overall capacity and further modernizing Hamburg’s container throughput capabilities.

Currently, about 90% of the largest container vessels calling at Hamburg are handled at Waltershofer Hafen. As part of the project, the turning basin will be widened from 480 meters to 600 meters, offering more space for vessels to maneuver safely and efficiently. This aims to improve navigational safety and operational performance for both current and next-generation mega vessels, while strengthening the Elbe’s overall navigability and resilience.

All berths at Waltershofer Hafen are expected to benefit from these measures, which should increase terminal throughput efficiency. The addition of new berths will also improve workflow, enabling future automation and electrification—critical steps toward port decarbonization.

Part of the funding will come from public sources. Initial estimates place the total cost at around €1.1 billion (approximately $1.29 billion). The Hamburg Port Authority (HPA) aims to complete the infrastructure development by the mid-2030s.

In parallel with the public investment, Eurogate has signed a preliminary lease agreement for the new area and will invest at least €700 million to expand its existing container terminal. Construction on the new site is expected to be completed within two years of land delivery.

“This project will boost the performance of the Port of Hamburg and is a crucial investment for securing its long-term competitiveness,” said Jens Meier, CEO of HPA.

This initiative also lays the groundwork for the port’s climate-neutral future. As a first step, HPA will revise development plans prior to the construction phase, with completion expected in the mid-2030s.

Last month, the HPA and Ocean Network Express (ONE) signed an agreement to promote the use of shore power at the Port of Hamburg.