The World Port Days 2026 bring the Port of Rotterdam to life, offering visitors a unique look behind the scenes of one of the world’s largest and most innovative ports. During this annual event, the city celebrates its strong connection with the maritime industry through spectacular demonstrations, ship tours, activities, and special events on and around the water.
One of the highlights of the World Port Days is the spectacular demonstration by the Royal Netherlands Navy. Visitors can watch naval vessels, helicopters and highly trained personnel in action on the River Maas. The demonstration showcases the skills, teamwork and advanced equipment of the Navy through realistic maritime scenarios.
A particularly impressive part of the demonstration is the simulation of an anti-submarine operation. During the exercise, a naval helicopter searches for a simulated submarine beneath the surface before moving into position to deploy a dummy torpedo. The moment the torpedo drops into the water brings the scenario to life, giving spectators a dramatic glimpse into how the Navy detects and responds to underwater threats.
Another action-packed scenario simulates an anti-drug operation at sea. High-speed boats representing drug smugglers race across the water as naval and maritime security teams move in to intercept them. The fast pursuit, sharp manoeuvres and coordinated response create an exciting spectacle while demonstrating how different units work together to combat drug trafficking at sea.
All this is performed against the backdrop of the city of Rotterdam, giving some unique photo opportunities
Another dramatic part of the World Port Days is the emergency response exercise featuring a Coast Guard helicopter. The scenario simulates a serious incident on the water, requiring a rapid and carefully coordinated rescue operation. As the helicopter hovers above the River Maas, a rescue specialist is lowered towards the scene to assist people in distress. The powerful rotor wash, the precision of the crew and the activity on the water make this an impressive demonstration of how the Coast Guard responds when every second counts.
The Loodswezen demonstration offers visitors a unique look at how maritime pilots reach and guide large vessels entering and leaving the Port of Rotterdam. From the Pistoolhaven, an important operational base for pilot services in the port, fast pilot boats head out onto the water to transfer pilots to passing ships.
For vessels further offshore, speed and flexibility are essential. Helicopters operated by Noordzee Helikopters Vlaanderen (NHV) support pilot transfers, allowing maritime pilots to reach ships at sea quickly and safely. Together, the helicopter and pilot boat operations demonstrate the impressive coordination behind the scenes and the vital role of the Loodswezen in keeping one of the world’s busiest ports moving safely and efficiently.
