Widening Juliana Canal

In August 2024, Rijkswaterstaat’s project started around the widening and deepening of the Julianakanaal. The main objective of this large-scale operation was to improve the sailing options on this important route. By making the channel wider and deeper, larger ships can pass more safely and efficiently, which contributes to a better flow of inland shipping.

Around October 2024 we became involved in this project, commissioned by Van den Herik. With our Waterking WK 220 NG-5 we were able to carry out work in places where conventional crawler cranes cannot handle the feet. Thanks to the low ground pressure of this machine, you can safely work in soft, difficult-to-make surfaces, without it sinking or causing damage to the environment.

In order to carry out the work in the Julianakanaal as safely as possible, our World Cup 220 NG-5 was equipped with an overpressure cabin prior to the project. This adjustment was necessary because of the possibility of working in areas with contaminated soil or water. The cab protects the operator from inhaling the potentially harmful substances that could be present, ensuring safe working under all conditions.

Although the deployment of our equipment and personnel was short-lived, we proudly look back on our contribution. The work was carried out as desired and according to schedule, without any significant problems or delays.

As of April 2025, the Julianakanaal has been officially opened again for shipping. The canal is now suitable for two-speed pushing: ships with a length of up to 190 meters, a width of up to 11.4 meters and a draft of up to 3.5 meters can easily pass through.

We are proud of the role we were allowed to play in this important infrastructure project.