IHMA congress
International Harbour Masters’ Association
Connecting Horizons: a global port community in Rotterdam
The 15th International Harbour Masters’ Congress of the International Harbour Masters’ Association (IHMA) took place from 9 to 12 June 2026 in Rotterdam, under the slogan Connecting Horizons: Building Future Resilient Ports Together. This biennial congress brings together harbour masters and maritime professionals to share knowledge on safe, efficient and sustainable maritime operations in port environments.
For this edition, Rotterdam won the bid to host the congress, together with host Port of Rotterdam. VKOZ was appointed as local PCO. Together with IHMA and the Port of Rotterdam, we formed the organising committee with the aim of delivering a congress that combines content, innovation and Rotterdam energy.
Congress
Rotterdam
200
Total service
71
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A congress format that reflects Rotterdam
After the first site visit, Theater Zuidplein was selected as the congress venue. The location offered the space and flexibility required for plenary sessions, an exhibition floor and break-out programmes, while also matching the desired informal and dynamic atmosphere. As no exhibition with stands had been organised there before, our network partner Hestex was engaged to handle the technical build and execution.
Rotterdam played a central role in both the content and programme design. As a city internationally known for its innovative character, we deliberately moved away from a fully plenary format. Instead, we combined plenary sessions with break-outs, including the large-scale Port Endeavour Game.
In addition, an Innovation Hub was created featuring students and start-ups, alongside a pitching competition for students. This gave young talent an active role in the congress and created a direct link to innovation in the maritime sector.
From content to city experience
The congress started on Monday with early registration and a visit to the HCC of the Port of Rotterdam. Over the three main congress days, the programme combined content with experience. After the opening ceremony, a brass band created a festive moment. Circus Rotjeknor provided a surprising opening for the Exhibitors’ Reception. On the first congress day, participants were invited to an official reception in the City Hall’s Burgerzaal, hosted by Mayor Carola Schouten. On Thursday evening, the gala dinner took place with live music and award ceremonies. The programme concluded on Friday with a Technical Port Tour, including a visit to Portlantis and a return journey to the city centre aboard the Spido Prinses Amalia.
The result was a varied and inspiring congress in which content, innovation and city experience came together. The collaboration between VKOZ, Port of Rotterdam and IHMA resulted in strong connections, new insights and a successful international positioning of Rotterdam as a leading maritime meeting city.
Pictures: Guido Pijper
Watch the aftermovie here!
" VKOZ - For an unforgettable event! "
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During the congress we partnered with Join the Pipe, who provided branded reusable water bottles for all participants. Throughout the event, these bottles were refilled at water stations, offering a tangible example of reducing single-use plastic at events.
Did you know...
An Innovation Hub becomes particularly valuable when established companies and start-ups come together in one environment. This cross-pollination accelerates innovation, enables new collaborations and supports the direct application of ideas in practice.
Want to know more?
The International Harbour Masters’ Association (IHMA) is a global network of harbour masters and maritime professionals focused on safe, efficient and sustainable port operations. With members in more than 50 countries, IHMA connects knowledge and practice worldwide.
