Shipyard of the Future
If we want to remain a leader in the maritime manufacturing industry, innovation is the course to follow. That is why, in the Netherlands, we are joining forces and collaborating on smart and circular shipbuilding.
Shipyard of the Future is a national flagship project within the Sector Agenda for the Maritime Manufacturing Industry (SAMMI). The project builds on the strength of regional cooperation. Through so-called “living labs,” regions can experiment, develop, learn, and invest together.
What do we want to achieve?
We aim to reduce costs through smarter design and production methods. In addition, savings can be achieved through digitalization and robotics. We strengthen our competitive position through better collaboration and shorter lead times across the supply chain.
Circular shipbuilding and efficient processes are central to our future-oriented vision. Finally, innovations will be scaled up effectively by first testing them regionally and then implementing them nationally, all combined for maximum impact.
Where does it take place?
We are working through a regional approach using “living labs.” In these labs, companies, knowledge institutions, and governments collaborate on new production methods.
The initiative is active in the regions of:
- Northern Netherlands
- Zeeland
- Rotterdam–Drechtsteden
- Den Helder
- Stellendam
- Urk
Each participant contributes their own expertise and challenges, creating a broad network that benefits everyone involved.
What does this deliver for the sector?
Shipyard of the Future strengthens the international competitive position of Dutch companies. By collaborating closely, groundbreaking solutions are developed faster, increasing innovation capacity. Better coordinated and more efficient processes also allow the sector to achieve greater output with the same resources, resulting in increased capacity. Close cooperation between companies, regional partnerships, and knowledge institutions enables knowledge sharing to happen more quickly and supports the growth of the sector as a whole. A strong maritime manufacturing industry also helps the Netherlands respond more effectively to security and defense-related demands.
What is the timeline?
In 2025, an extensive exploratory study was conducted. The report will be published in early 2026. The study provides insight into the innovation needs required to achieve the goals of Shipyard of the Future. These insights will be used to develop a follow-up action plan together with the National Coordination Office, which has been designated within SAMMI as the government’s main point of contact. An important first success has already been achieved: the Rotterdam–Drechtsteden region received a substantial subsidy for its living lab initiative. In 2026, attention will focus on identifying what works well and what additional steps are needed to realize the ambitions of Shipyard of the Future.
Contact and participation
Are you active in the maritime manufacturing industry and interested in joining or learning more? Please contact project manager Lotte Monhemius via monhemius@maritimeoffshore.nl, or visit Werf van de Toekomst (only in Dutch) for the latest updates and participation opportunities.
Together, we are building the future: innovative, sustainable, and competitive.
Download report Shipyard of the Future (only in Dutch)