Rotterdam's innovative maritime & offshore cluster
The Rotterdam region boasts one of the largest and most innovative maritime clusters in the world, anchored by the Port of Rotterdam. This cluster encompasses a wide spectrum of activities, including shipping, logistics, shipbuilding, offshore engineering, and maritime services. With its strategic location, robust infrastructure, skilled workforce, and forward-thinking approach, Rotterdam has established itself as a leading global maritime hub. If you are looking for the perfect location for your maritime/offshore conference or business event, Rotterdam is it!
The city's maritime cluster is an integral part of the broader Dutch maritime industry, renowned worldwide for its innovation, sustainability, and technological expertise. National initiatives such as the Netherlands Maritime Technology (NMT) and the Maritime Delta programme support the sector’s growth, fostering collaboration between industry leaders, government bodies, and academic institutions. Additionally, Rotterdam is home to a dedicated Maritime Chamber and an arbitration institute within the city’s district court, reinforcing its role as a centre for maritime governance.
Offshore innovations
The Rotterdam offshore sector is a vital component of the regions extensive maritime cluster, with innovative developments driving the industry forward. From offshore wind farms (the Rotterdam Offshore Wind Coalition plays a leading role in international offshore developments) to deep-sea exploration and subsea construction, the region is at the forefront of sustainable energy and technological advancement. Rotterdam is home to numerous companies specialising in cutting-edge solutions, including autonomous vessels, advanced dredging technologies, and renewable energy platforms.
The Drechtsteden area, located just to the south of Rotterdam, plays a crucial role in the offshore subsector. Known for its strong industrial base, this region is a hub for offshore engineering and shipbuilding. Companies in Drechtsteden contribute to the development of specialised vessels and high-tech equipment tailored for offshore operations. The area's proximity to Rotterdam ensures seamless integration with the broader maritime ecosystem, providing investors with access to a thriving offshore innovation network and a wealth of expertise.
Diverse and dynamic sector
The Rotterdam maritime sector spans a diverse range of activities, including shipping, shipbuilding, dredging, maritime logistics, and marine engineering. This multifaceted industry is a cornerstone of the Dutch economy, significantly contributing to employment and national GDP. The city’s comprehensive ecosystem ensures a seamless integration of services, making it an attractive location for businesses and investors alike.
Ecosystem overview
- Network organisation, industry advocacy: Deltalinqs, Netherlands Maritime Technology (NMT), iTanks, Rotterdam Maritime Services Community (RMSC)
- Expertise centre: Erasmus Centre for Urban, Port and Transport Economics
- Accelerators: PortXL, Platform Zero
- Fieldlab: Researchlab Autonomous Shipping, RAMLAB
- Knowledge platform: Smart Port
- Knowledge Institute: STC Group
- Co-working location with innovative community: RDM Rotterdam
Subsectors and companies
Rotterdam's maritime and offshore cluster is made up of series of sub-clusters, each with a strong presence of internationally leading companies. Click for an overview of Rotterdam based companies per subsector:
World-class knowledge hub
Rotterdam’s maritime cluster is strengthened by a thriving knowledge ecosystem, underpinned by globally recognised educational and research institutions. Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is a leader in maritime innovation, offering specialised programmes in naval architecture, offshore engineering, and ship management. The Maritime Research Institute Netherlands (MARIN) complements these efforts with cutting-edge research in hydrodynamics, nautical operations, and maritime safety.
Key institutions
Other key institutions include Erasmus University Rotterdam, which focuses on maritime economics and logistics through its Erasmus Centre for Urban, Port and Transport Economics, and the Scheepvaart en Transport College (STC). The STC delivers a wide range of vocational and professional education, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled talent for the maritime sector.
Key knowledge insitutions in the greater Rotterdam region:
Erasmus University Rotterdam: Expertise in maritime economics and logistics.
Delft University of Technology: Innovations in maritime engineering and sustainable technologies.
Scheepvaart en Transport College (STC): Comprehensive vocational and higher education for the maritime industry.
Collaboration driving innovation
Rotterdam’s maritime ecosystem thrives on strong collaboration between public and private stakeholders1. Initiatives like the Maritime Delta programme bring together businesses, government entities, and knowledge institutions to enhance the sector’s competitiveness and foster innovation. This spirit of partnership is exemplified by the Port of Rotterdam’s close cooperation with technology companies, leading to the implementation of advanced solutions such as machine-learning-powered inspections and AI-driven asset management. These efforts are transforming Rotterdam into a hub for smart port technologies, ensuring its position at the forefront of maritime digitalisation and infrastructure development.
Why invest in Rotterdam’s maritime cluster?
With its unmatched location, innovative culture, and supportive ecosystem, Rotterdam offers unparalleled opportunities for businesses looking to invest in the maritime and offshore sectors. Whether you are seeking advanced infrastructure, cutting-edge research, or access to a skilled workforce, Rotterdam and its surrounding regions, including Drechtsteden, provide the ideal environment to set sail towards success.
Business & innovation showcases
Portlantis
Will open in 2025. This new exhibition space and visitor centre will be the hotspot for a broad public wishing to gain a deeper understanding of the complex, dynamic world of the port of Rotterdam in an exciting and innovative way.
Rotterdam Additive Manufacturing LAB (RAMLAB)
Pioneering in the use of 3D printing technologies for producing maritime (spare)parts on demand, reducing lead times and costs. RAMLAB is currently collaborating with Deep manufacturing in the HEX Bot program.
Maritime leader (rankings DNV and Menon Economics)
Rotterdam was named European leader in the 2024 edition of the ‘Leading Maritime Cities of the World’ report by DNV and Menon Economics. Rotterdam maintains this top rank from the 2022 report. An important and well-deserved recognition for our port and maritime industry.
Clean fuel and energy deal with VARO
The Port of Rotterdam Authority is continueing using clean fuel and energy for its vessels and emergency power facilities, such as radar stations. To this end, CEO of the Port of Rotterdam Boudewijn Siemons signed a new agreement with VARO Energy Group.
Team Convention Bureau
Want to organise congress or a business event? Rotterdam Partners, our city's official Convention Bureau, is your starting point. We will share our broad expertise and network, dedicated guidance and up-to-date knowledge of Rotterdam. Get in touch with us:
