ANTWERP, Belgium — CEDA Dredging Days 2026 will bring hundreds of maritime professionals to Antwerp from May 11-13 as industry leaders gather to discuss the future of ports, infrastructure and sustainability.
Organizers expect nearly 300 delegates to attend the event at A Room with a ZOO in central Antwerp. The conference will include researchers, technical experts and global dredging specialists.
The event serves as the flagship conference for the Central Dredging Association, also known as CEDA.
Antwerp selected because of maritime influence
Conference organizers said Antwerp offered a natural fit for the international event.
The city operates one of Europe’s busiest ports and continues expanding its role in logistics, maritime trade and sustainable industry. In addition, Antwerp remains a major center for chemical production and Blue Economy innovation.
Because of this strong connection to waterways and infrastructure, the city provides delegates with direct access to active maritime operations.
Mieke van Loenen said Antwerp reflects many of the themes driving the conference.
“Antwerp was a natural choice for CEDA Dredging Days 2026,” van Loenen said. “The city sits at the heart of Europe’s dredging community.”
She also noted that delegates can experience real-world examples of port development and infrastructure projects throughout the city.
Conference to focus on sustainability and infrastructure
This year’s conference will examine major issues affecting ports and waterways worldwide.
Topics include sustainable infrastructure, maritime innovation, climate resilience and port development. In addition, speakers will discuss how cities balance economic growth with environmental concerns.
The event theme, “It’s a Zoo out there!” connects both to the venue and to the changing global environment facing the dredging industry.
Organizers say the conference aims to encourage collaboration between engineers, policymakers and maritime leaders.
Port of Antwerp-Bruges featured during site visits
Delegates will also participate in several field visits tied directly to Antwerp’s maritime industry.
On May 11, attendees will tour Port of Antwerp-Bruges, one of Europe’s largest ports.
The visit will provide insight into cargo operations, sustainability projects and infrastructure planning.
Later that day, Johan Klaps will speak during a session focused on large construction projects across the city.
Officials say these discussions will explore how infrastructure projects affect both mobility and quality of life.
Oosterweel project highlights city development
Another major topic will center on Antwerp’s Oosterweel infrastructure project.
The project includes extensive mobility improvements and construction connected to a new Scheldt tunnel.
Conference sessions scheduled for May 13 will take delegates behind the scenes of the large-scale development.
As a result, visitors will gain direct exposure to one of Belgium’s biggest infrastructure projects.
Historic venue adds local character
The conference will take place at A Room with a ZOO, a historic venue linked to Antwerp ZOO.
Organizers say the location reflects Antwerp’s blend of history and innovation.
Tadeja Pivc Coudyser said the city offers delegates more than meeting space.
“One of Antwerp’s strengths is that conferences here are never isolated from the destination,” she said.
She added that visitors can experience the city’s maritime heritage and innovation firsthand.
Antwerp continues growing conference profile
Antwerp Convention Bureau continues promoting the city as a destination for international meetings and events.
Officials say conferences tied to local industries help strengthen Antwerp’s global profile.
As a result, the city continues attracting association events connected to logistics, sustainability and technology.
Event information
CEDA Dredging Days 2026
Dates: May 11-13, 2026
Venue: A Room with a ZOO
Website:
Antwerp Convention Bureau
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