A Broad Perspective on Smart Shipping: shaping the future of autonomous shipping together

From remotely operated barges to intelligent navigation systems: Rotterdam is exploring the opportunities of autonomous shipping. In the Rotterdam region, pioneering research meets real-world application, as industry leaders, researchers and policymakers come together to shape the future of autonomous shipping. Discover how collaboration, safety and innovation drive progress on Europe’s most dynamic waterways.

Remote today, autonomous tomorrow

With a fleet of 45 vessels and a forward-looking mindset, Dari Shipping is actively testing what the future of inland navigation could look like. Raymon Berkhout, director at Dari Shipping, sees remote-controlled sailing as a crucial step towards full autonomy. From office-based control centres to lane-assist-like systems on barges, the technology is already in use. But it’s not just about innovation: it’s about solving labour shortages, improving safety and setting industry-wide standards. In this video, Raymon shares how practical pilots and partnerships help push smart shipping from theory into practice.

Autonomous ships don’t sail alone

What happens when self-steering vessels enter the world’s busiest waterways? According to Professor Rudy Negenborn of Delft University of Technology, collaboration is key. In Rotterdam, researchers, port authorities and industry partners work together to understand how autonomous ships will interact. Not only with traditional vessels, but with each other. From smart decision-making systems to national platforms like SMASH!, the Netherlands is laying the groundwork for safe and scalable autonomous navigation. Watch Rudy’s story and discover how research and the Rotterdam ecosystem align to prepare for the next era of shipping.

A safer course for the next generation

Trust is the foundation of safe autonomous sailing, and that trust starts with design. At Delft University of Technology, Assistant Professor Vasso Reppa is helping shape vessels that can safely navigate inland waterways, comply with traffic rules, and support human decision-making in complex environments. From AI algorithms to ergonomic remote-control centres, the work goes far beyond engineering. It opens doors to new, inclusive job opportunities and a safer, more attractive maritime career path for future generations. Watch Vasso explain how autonomy and safety move forward together.

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