The largest work ship in the world will arrive at the port of Vlissingen on 16 August. This offshore vessel is shaped like a gigantic catamaran. 

The Pioneering Spirit is 382 meters long and 124 meters wide, the total width is 148 meters. She is loaded incoming with two jack-ups (a kind of platform used for gas or oil drilling) and has a draft of 120 dm, and a height above the waterline of 110 meters. 

Because this vessel has such exceptional dimensions, the Joint Nautical Authority takes traffic regulation measures in close consultation with the actors involved: both pilotages (Dutch and Flemish), the ports and the shipping company Allseas. The Pioneering Spirit must not be disturbed by other shipping on the sea route, the river Scheldt and in the Sloehaven. 

There will be one pilot on board, visibility must be 1000 meters and the incoming voyage will take place in daylight. 

All chain partners involved have been informed and a BASS has been issued. The hindrance for other shipping is not big, but traffic regulation is taken, because there is no passage at certain points and when entering the port. These matters have been discussed, a sailing plan has been drawn up and the ports have to take this into account in their planning on the day itself.