World Port Days Rotterdam - location, dates, activities

 

The 48th edition of the World Port Days will take place in Rotterdam on 5, 6 and 7 September 2025. The team of the Netherlands' largest annual maritime event is organizing a jubilee edition with countless activities for young and old on the quays, ship demonstrations and excursions on land and water.

 

Visitors will once again be able to explore a wide variety of ships along the quaysides, book boat tours and excursions, and witness water shows. Long-time favourites such as the Match Career Event on Friday 5 September, aimed at those exploring careers in the port sector, will also be returning.

Several notable vessels will be accessible to the public. The 111-metre-long HEBO-CB 1 pontoon will be moored at the Holland Amerikakade. At Parkkade, visitors can find the Sefarina sea vessel from Chemgas, as well as the Guardian, an emergency tug operated by the Coast Guard and Multraship.

The Innovatiekade, where companies showcase developments towards the future of the port, will also return. On the Veiligheidsplein (Safety Square), visitors will encounter demonstrations and interactive stations focused on crisis management and safety procedures in the port.

The Royal Netherlands Navy will once again participate, with its marines’ village, multiple naval ships and a notable debut: the supply vessel CSS Den Helder will be open to the public throughout the weekend.

 

Rijnhaven joins the event terrain

For the first time, the quays surrounding the Fenix warehouse and the new FENIX museum will form part of the official event grounds. The Sea Rangers, this year’s featured charity, will be present with their sailing work vessel. The group is involved in marine conservation and ecological restoration at sea.

As Rijnhaven transitions from a former industrial harbour to a liveable urban area, the location will be used to highlight themes of sustainability and relaxation. During the weekend, visitors will find activities for children such as a fire hose demonstration, as well as the opportunity to rent SUP boards, canoes, kayaks or pedal boats. A floating skate ramp will also be featured.

 

Focus on innovation and inclusion

Sabine Bruijnincx, director of Wereldhavendagen, stated: “The port of Rotterdam remains a vital engine for both the Netherlands and Europe. This year’s edition reflects ongoing developments in innovation, sustainability, and energy transition, while also welcoming visitors seeking a more leisurely maritime experience.”

 

 

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.

 

 

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.

 

 

 

 

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.