Jan De Nul Initiates Critical Dredging Operations for Georgia’s Transformative Anaklia Deep Sea Port
Anaklia, Georgia – August 18, 2026 – The ambitious Anaklia Deep Sea Port Project in Georgia has officially commenced its vital dredging phase, marking a significant step towards realizing its vision as a pivotal Black Sea trade hub. Last week, Jan De Nul’s advanced trailing suction hopper dredger (TSHD) Tristão da Cunha initiated operations, with a second colossal TSHD, the Al-Idrisi, slated to join the effort by the end of August. This collaborative dredging endeavor is set to redefine maritime capabilities in the region.
The two state-of-the-art vessels from Jan De Nul, a global leader in dredging and marine construction, will be primarily responsible for the meticulous dredging of the port’s entrance and turning channels. The project specifications outline a target depth of approximately 17.5 meters, a critical parameter designed to accommodate some of the largest container ships navigating the Black Sea.
This substantial depth, coupled with the planned 1376-meter long breakwater, will ensure the safe and efficient handling of Panamax and Post-Panamax class vessels, as confirmed by Georgia’s Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development. The breakwater itself is more than just a protective barrier; it is engineered to create a sheltered water basin, paving the way for the development of up to 700 meters of deep-water container berths. Furthermore, it will facilitate the construction of up to 600 meters of jetty-type berths specifically designed for dry and bulk cargo, significantly enhancing the port’s versatile operational capacity.
The Anaklia Deep Sea Port is being developed under an innovative "landlord model." Under this strategic framework, the Georgian state retains ownership and responsibility for the core port infrastructure, including the newly dredged channels and breakwater. Private partners, in turn, will be entrusted with the development and operation of the various terminals within the port complex.
This carefully chosen model offers several key advantages. It guarantees a phased development approach, allowing the port to expand organically in response to cargo growth. Moreover, it is designed to foster a competitive environment among international operators, attracting world-class expertise and efficiency. The Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development emphasizes that this structure will bolster Anaklia’s potential to emerge as a key maritime gateway along the Middle Corridor, a critical transportation route connecting Asia and Europe.
The arrival of Jan De Nul’s powerful dredging fleet underscores the serious commitment behind the Anaklia project. The combined might of the Tristão da Cunha and the Al-Idrisi will be instrumental in shaping the physical foundation of a port poised to transform Georgia’s economic landscape and strengthen its position in global trade. For more breaking news on the project, please refer to the original source.
