The harbour of Vlissingen is a tidal harbour, without locks. This unique location means that the port is accessible to large ships. Vlissingen is one of the few open sea ports in North-West Europe, although its port basins are well protected from bad weather. Its close proximity to one of the world's busiest shipping lanes makes the port of Vlissingen a very attractive call for shipping companies. Easy and safe access to the ports, coupled with competitive dues - both for the shipowners and cargo owners - are basic ingredients for the successful growth of the Vlissingen ports. <br> The port has an extensive rail network with shunting area, while our terminals have rail connections to the whole of Europe. Block trains depart Vlissingen several times a day as part of the European shuttle network. Last but not least, large volumes of cargo are received and dispatched by way of an inland waterway system. This highly cost-effective mode of transport is used regularly for distributing cargoes such as steel, forest products and factory new cars to the hinterland. The Vlissingen port area is connected through a tunnel under the Schelde River with Belgium and France.