Port of the Future Week brings port of tomorrow to life in Antwerp
What does the port of the future look like? On 15 and 16 September, visitors to Port of the Future Week in Antwerp got an answer to that question. During DroneHorizon ’26 and the Autonomous Summit, live demonstrations, technological innovations and real-world applications took centre stage. On the water and along the quayside, companies and researchers showcased how autonomous systems can contribute to safer, more efficient and more sustainable port operations.
For Blue Cluster, the event provided an excellent opportunity to showcase the innovative strength of its members. Through a shared pavilion, live demonstrations and guided tours of autonomous vessels, innovation was not only discussed but also brought to life.
Innovation in practice
What sets Port of the Future Week apart from many other events is its strong focus on demonstrations. Visitors were able not only to discover technology on the exhibition floor, but also to experience it directly in an operational port environment.
On the water, the Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) demonstrations were among the highlights. During guided tours, the Blue Cluster introduced visitors to a range of innovative applications already being deployed today for inspections, data collection, monitoring and remote operations.
Four demonstrations, one clear message
The first demonstration, presented by dotOcean, showed how autonomous vessels can contribute to more efficient port operations. It highlighted how unmanned systems are increasingly being deployed for tasks where speed, accuracy and safety are essential.
GEOxyz then demonstrated how autonomous vessels can collect data below the water surface. Such applications enable surveys and measurements to be carried out faster, more flexibly and in a safer manner, which is crucial for offshore infrastructure projects and port environments.
At North Star, visitors were introduced to FLOAT-E, an innovative solution for inspecting quay walls, jetties and other port infrastructure. By partially automating inspections, risks for personnel can be reduced while making inspection processes more efficient.
Finally, TideWise demonstrated how a vessel can be operated remotely. From a control centre in Liège, an autonomous operation in Antwerp was monitored and managed. The demonstration left a strong impression and illustrated how remote operations create new opportunities for inspections, monitoring and maritime services.
Together, these real-world examples made one thing abundantly clear: autonomous shipping is no longer a vision of the future. The technology is available today and is increasingly finding its way into practical applications.
A strong ecosystem under one roof
Besides the demonstrations, Blue Cluster’s joint pavilion served as a meeting place for visitors looking for innovative solutions within the blue economy.
Companies, technology developers, knowledge partners and policymakers engaged in discussions on the challenges and opportunities of the maritime transition. From autonomous systems and data technologies to monitoring, inspection and smart port solutions, the wide range of innovations on display highlighted the diversity and maturity of the Flemish maritime innovation ecosystem.
Building the port of tomorrow together
Port of the Future Week once again demonstrated that Flanders is home to a strong network of companies and organisations helping to shape the maritime economy of the future.
For Blue Cluster, the many conversations, demonstrations and encounters confirmed the vital role that collaboration plays in accelerating innovation. When technology developers, ports, knowledge institutions and end users come together, new insights emerge and new opportunities are created.
Blue Cluster therefore looks back with great satisfaction on two dynamic days filled with innovation, inspiration and valuable connections. We would like to thank all members, partners, demonstrators and visitors who contributed to the success of this edition.
