Navigating the future: autonomous and smart shipping in Rotterdam

From uncrewed inspection systems and autonomous electric barges to intelligent propulsion controls, the Rotterdam region is advancing the technologies that will shape the future of maritime operations.

DronePort Rotterdam, the MAGPIE project and SmartShip demonstrate how pioneering ideas are tested and validated in real-world conditions.

Supported by close collaboration between companies, knowledge institutions and public partners, Rotterdam provides the ideal environment to turn innovation into practical, scalable solutions. Together, these initiatives are making maritime operations smarter, more efficient and more resilient.

Watch the three videos below to discover how Rotterdam’s maritime ecosystem is navigating the future.

DronePort Rotterdam

Arthur Dallau, Founder & CEO of DronePort Rotterdam, explains how the company helps test and validate autonomous and uncrewed systems in real-world port conditions. By connecting innovators with the Port of Rotterdam, corporates, governments and knowledge institutions, DronePort helps bring new technologies into practice.

MAGPIE

Thierry Verduijn, Autonomous Sailing Lead on the MAGPIE project, explains how autonomous e-barges can help address crew shortages in inland shipping. By bringing together the Port of Rotterdam, research institutions and companies, MAGPIE creates a real-world environment to test and validate autonomous maritime technologies.

Smart-Ship

Roy Kok, Founder & CEO of Smart-Ship, shares how Smart-Ship is developing the next generation of propulsion control using force feedback technology to help ship operators sail more economically. Based in the Rotterdam-Delft ecosystem, Smart-Ship benefits from close collaboration with shipyards, OEMs, equipment manufacturers and maritime experts.

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Navigating the future: autonomous and smart shipping in Rotterdam

DronePort Rotterdam

MAGPIE

Smart-Ship

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