Last week, the annual kick-off of the World Port Days took place in the Van Ghentkazerne in Rotterdam. The 48th edition of the Netherlands’ largest annual maritime event will take place on 5, 6, and 7 September 2025 in Rotterdam. The organization has made an urgent appeal to (port) companies to collaborate and introduce the public to the port of the future.
Together with main sponsors Rotterdam Festivals, the Port of Rotterdam Authority, and main partner the Royal Netherlands Navy, the team behind the Wereldhavendagen Foundation gave a preview of the 48th edition of the event during the kickoff at the Van Ghent Barracks. Of course, visitors will once again become acquainted with both today’s port and the port of the future — through numerous quay activities, water shows, and excursions showcasing the innovations that make Rotterdam the smartest port in the world, as well as the countless career opportunities and the challenges ahead. Sabine Bruijnincx, director of the Wereldhavendagen Foundation, referred during the opening talk on stage to an open letter from alderman Robert Simons (Leefbaar Rotterdam): “The Port of Rotterdam is a crucial engine for the Netherlands and Europe, but its competitive position is under pressure. That is why it is important that we all recognize the urgency and show why Rotterdam still absolutely has a right to exist, and leads the way in terms of innovation, sustainability, the energy transition, and opportunities for young people and career changers.”
Engaging with visitors
One of last year’s participants who successfully used the Wereldhavendagen to engage with its audience was the European Commission. On stage during the kickoff, Bart Roelandt (representative of the European Commission in the Netherlands) explained how the event is the perfect platform for the organization to connect with citizens they normally struggle to reach. At their quay stand, the European Commission engaged in conversations with more than 18,000 visitors during last year’s weekend.
Innovation Quay
One of the ways in which the Wereldhavendagen Foundation will take visitors to the port of the future in 2025 is through the Innovation Quay. This was introduced on a small scale during the previous edition, but thanks to its success will be significantly expanded this coming edition. Niels Kalshoven (co-founder of Droneport Europe) explained why the success of last year’s Innovation Quay makes Wereldhavendagen the perfect place to get to work on telling the future story of the Port of Rotterdam.
Stena Line new partner
The Wereldhavendagen Foundation has therefore called on all organizations with a heart for the port: join us, and let’s tell together why Rotterdam, the Netherlands, and Europe cannot do without the port. One of the organizations that has already stepped up is Stena Line, which is now the new business partner of Wereldhavendagen. This partnership is part of a new, exclusive proposition the organization offers to companies seeking maximum visibility at the event. Participating in Wereldhavendagen
But beyond partnerships, there are countless ways for companies and organizations to connect with Wereldhavendagen to help tell the story of the port of the future. For example, by being present on the quays, putting on a water show, or hosting an excursion. The MATCH Career Event will also return at the Nieuwe Luxor on Friday, providing opportunities to connect with thousands of visiting students, young professionals, and other people interested in a port-related career. In addition, there are various business packages available, enabling colleagues or business contacts to enjoy the Netherlands’ largest annual maritime event together.
