Nova Marine Carriers Acquires VCK Port Logistics in Strategic Move
Nova Marine Carriers, in collaboration with German shipping company Aug. Bolten and Spanish group Ership, has finalized the acquisition of VCK Port Logistics. This transaction, signed through their Dutch subsidiary Maja Stuwadoorsgroep B.V., grants Nova Marine full control over VCK and its associated port logistics infrastructures, including the Waterland Terminal in the Port of Amsterdam. This terminal is notable for being the only facility in Europe that can load and unload cargo under cover, ensuring uninterrupted operations regardless of weather conditions.
The acquisition marks a significant transition for VCK, which has been a key player in the logistics and port market for over a century. The current shareholders are stepping back, allowing Nova Marine and its partners to take the helm. The new ownership aims to enhance operations in the break bulk and dry bulk sectors, ensuring continuity for VCK’s customers and employees. The management team will remain in place, maintaining a trusted relationship with the new shareholders.
Waterland Terminal: A Unique Asset in Port Logistics
The Waterland Terminal stands out as a state-of-the-art, multimodal facility that operates around the clock, seven days a week. Its unique “one roof all weather” concept allows for efficient transshipment, storage, and distribution of various cargo types, including steel, aluminum, and paper. The terminal features three all-weather berths (LoLo) and two open berths (RoRo), enabling seamless operations regardless of external weather conditions.
In addition to its operational capabilities, the terminal includes a dehumidified warehouse specifically designed for steel products. This feature, along with extensive open storage areas for RoRo cargo and containers, positions Waterland Terminal as a leader in the European port logistics market. Nova Marine’s strategic plan aligns with the terminal’s capabilities, as the company seeks to expand its presence in port logistics.
The partnership between Nova, Aug. Bolten, and Ership is expected to drive growth and innovation within VCK Port Logistics. Vincenzo Romeo, CEO of Nova Marine Carriers, emphasized the importance of vertical integration in their operations, aiming to enhance control over the entire supply chain while pursuing investments that meet high technological and operational standards.
Future Prospects for Nova Marine and VCK Port Logistics
This acquisition is part of a broader strategy by Nova Marine Carriers to strengthen its position in the logistics sector. In February 2025, the same partnership acquired the entire share capital of Maja Stuwadoors Groep B.V., gaining control of the Vlothaven bulk terminal in Amsterdam. This terminal, equipped with a 215-meter-long quay, is suitable for various types of bulk cargo and will be integrated with the Waterland Terminal under Maja Stuwadoorsgroep B.V.
Nova Marine Carriers breaks into New Zealand market with MPP newbuild
Nova Marine Carriers, headquartered in Lugano, Switzerland, operates a diverse fleet of modern bulk carriers and self-unloading vessels. With around 100 vessels under its control, the company specializes in bulk traffic across the Mediterranean, Atlantic, and Middle East, as well as Italian and European cabotage. Over the past five years, Nova has actively pursued strategic investments in port logistics, positioning itself for continued growth in this vital sector.