Splash247: Nova Marine Carriers JV doubles down on Amsterdam logistics

Italian-Swiss dry bulk group Nova Marine Carriers has tightened its grip on the Port of Amsterdam after completing the acquisition of the Waterland Terminal in a joint venture with Germany’s Aug. Bolten and Spain’s Ership.

The deal was executed through Dutch subsidiary Maja Stuwadoors Groep, which reached a final agreement with VCK Holding to acquire full ownership of VCK Port Logistics, alongside other port logistics assets operated by VCK and its affiliated companies Verenigd Cargadoorskantoor and Waterland Terminal.

Waterland is a rare asset in European ports: the only terminal on the continent capable of fully covered loading and discharging, allowing uninterrupted 24/7 operations regardless of weather conditions.

Nova Marine and its partners said they will continue to develop VCK as a reference operator in the breakbulk and dry bulk segments. The existing management team will remain in place and retain responsibility for day-to-day terminal operations.

Nova Marine chief executive Vincenzo Romeo said the transaction fits squarely with the group’s push to link shipping and shore-side assets more closely.

“This transaction represents another step forward in our strategy of vertical integration between maritime transport and port logistics,” Romeo said, adding that the focus remains on gaining control across the value chain while investing in assets with strong operational and technological credentials.

Located inside the Port of Amsterdam, Waterland Terminal is built for all-weather operations. It offers three covered lolo berths and two open roro berths, with transhipment, storage and distribution running around the clock. The site includes a dehumidified warehouse for steel products, storage for aluminium, zinc, paper, timber and pulp, as well as outdoor yards for roro cargo and containers.

The acquisition marks the second move by the Nova–Bolten–Ership consortium in the Dutch port. In February 2025, the partners acquired 100% of Maja Stuwadoors Groep, securing control of the bulk terminal at Vlothaven. Both Amsterdam terminals will now sit under the Maja Stuwadoors Groep.