HAPPENING 4–6 SEP 2026 | World Port Days (Wereldhavendagen) in Rotterdam is the largest annual maritime event in the Netherlands. It features numerous activities on the quay, demonstrations on the water and excursions that go deeper into the harbour. In addition, there is an extensive cultural program in the city. World Port Days is known to draw upwards of 380,000 visitors.
World Port Days Rotterdam 2026
The full 2026 programme is being released in the run-up to the event, with excursion and boat tour tickets expected to go on sale online in mid-August 2026. Most activities on the quays are free to visit, while selected excursions and boat trips require a ticket.
The event terrain is centred around the Erasmus Bridge, with activities usually spread across areas such as Willemsplein, Wilhelminapier, Parkkade, Veerhaven, Leuvehoofd, Deliplein and Boompjes. On Saturday evening, the harbour spectacle can be followed from spots including Willemskade, Erasmus Bridge and Holland Amerikakade.
Focus on innovation and inclusion
For 2026, World Port Days is again putting extra emphasis on accessibility and inclusion. De Zonnebloem has been named the official charity for the 49th edition. Its adapted passenger ship, MPS de Zonnebloem, will be open to visitors at the Westerkade, giving you a chance to see how the vessel is designed for people with a physical disability.
The MATCH Career Event is also set to return, offering students, young professionals and jobseekers a look at career opportunities in the port. Innovation, sustainability, safety and the energy transition remain central themes, as the event shows how the Rotterdam port is changing and why it continues to matter to the Netherlands and Europe.
World Port Days Rotterdam 📷 Anne Reitsma Fotografie
Challenges and solutions of the future
During the World Port Days, young and old can discover why the port of Rotterdam is such a special place. Every day, countless professionals use smart technology to manage the import and export of hundreds of tonnes of goods, containers and ships in a clean, efficient and safe manner. Innovative start-ups and multinationals work here on the sustainable solutions of the future. It is a dynamic, diverse and inclusive place, where there are career opportunities for everyone. Special flora and fauna, protected nature areas and walking and cycling routes also make the port a liveable neighbour for Rotterdam and a green attraction for lovers of nature and recreation on and around the water.
At the same time, the world around us is changing. Brexit and the COVID-19 crisis showed that the global trade in raw materials and goods is vulnerable. Currently, the world is experiencing the consequences of the war in Ukraine. These are major challenges for the port of Rotterdam, which is already in transition. For example, the port wants to emit 55% less CO2 by 2030 and be completely emission-free by 2050. In the years to come, thousands of new people will be needed to fill the vacancies associated with the energy transition and digitalization of the port.
World Port Days Rotterdam 📷 Anne Reitsma Fotografie
Traditional activities
Visitors can expect the usual exciting features of World Port Days, including:
- Special ships and boat tours
- Exciting excursions
- Spectacles on the water
- Demonstrations and presentations by shipping companies
- Cultural programmes with musical performances and markets
Evening show
A highlight of the event will be the musical and visual spectacle on Saturday night, featuring fireworks.
Ticket sales and programme details
The full event programme is available at www.wereldhavendagen.nl/programma. Additional items, such as show times and new features, will be added in the coming weeks.
Tickets for excursions and boat tours go on sale Monday 18 August at 12:00.
World Port Days Rotterdam by Anne Reitsma Fotografie 004
Main location: Erasmus Bridge Rotterdam area
Rijnhaven and Katendrecht event zone
This year, Rijnhaven becomes part of the official event terrain. Located between Wilhelminapier and Katendrecht, it is easily accessible via metro station Rijnhaven or Wilhelminaplein. From there, visitors can reach the Fenixloods and FENIX museum on foot. The area is known for its transformation from industrial port to residential neighbourhood with green public spaces.
World Port Days Rotterdam 📷 Anne Reitsma Fotografie
