Overview
The North Sea-Baltic Sea Canal, called Kiel Canal (NOK), connects the North Sea via the Elbe River with the Baltic Sea.
Importance in Regional and Trans-European Transport
In its significance, the NOK is not only a vital part of the regional economic structure but also a key component of the Trans-European Transport Network. Thanks to its distance and time advantages, this federal waterway offers international shipping a substantial economic benefit.
Maintenance and Planned Expansion
The Waterways and Shipping Administration (WSV) ensures continuous upkeep of the NOK, providing a safe and reliable transport route over the long term. To maintain and enhance its capacity for international shipping, extensive expansion measures are planned for this critical transit corridor.
Navigation Advantages
Sailing through the NOK delivers significant route savings depending on departure and destination ports – on average 250 nautical miles (463 km). By choosing optimal routes and speeds, ships can avoid major time losses, save fuel, and reduce CO₂ emissions.
- Average distance saved: 250 nmi (463 km)
- Lower fuel consumption through shorter routes
- Reduced CO₂ emissions
Usage by Recreational and Commercial Vessels
- Approximately 10.000 recreational boats transit the NOK each year, restricted to daylight hours.
- More than 30.000 commercial ships use the canal annually, making it the world’s busiest artificial seaway.
Comparative Traffic Data
For context:
- Panama Canal: about 16.000 vessels per year
- Suez Canal: about 13.000 vessels per year
Cargo Throughput
Up to 100 million tonnes of goods are transported through the NOK annually. This volume has been exceeded twice since the canal opened.
Image above: Illustration of route advantages
Images below: Ships navigating the NOK
Note: The attached map displays major European ports and the distance-saving routes via the Kiel Canal.