Last week, the HTS Group’s inland vessel MS Letitia sailed completely autonomously from Amaliahaven on the Maasvlakte to Waalhaven in Rotterdam. The demonstration highlights just how rapidly technological innovation is advancing within the inland waterway sector.
The inland vessel sailed independently via Europoort and the Nieuwe Waterweg towards Waalhaven. During the journey, the system carried out manoeuvres such as mooring, navigating through the port area, maintaining course on the river and mooring again.
During the autonomous voyage, the surroundings were constantly monitored. Other vessels were detected and, where necessary, the inland vessel was able to take evasive action independently. The skipper remains ultimately responsible and can intervene at any time.
According to Oscar van Veen, Director of Innovation at the Port of Rotterdam Authority, autonomous navigation opens the door to new logistics concepts. These can enhance the flexibility, efficiency and reliability of inland waterway transport.
The demonstration comes at a time when inland waterway transport is playing a key role in the hinterland transport of containers. According to the Port Authority, increasing cargo flows mean it is important for inland waterway transport to maintain and further expand its share of freight transport.
Further information on sustainable hinterland solutions can be found on the pages about barge transport, intermodal transport and the TOP Platform.
For the demonstration, the Port of Rotterdam Authority collaborated with partners within the European Magpie project. This project tests innovative solutions for maritime shipping, inland waterway transport, rail and road transport. The project receives financial support from the European Union.
Autonomous navigation is therefore not an isolated trial, but part of a broader development towards smart, green and efficient multimodal hubs. For the Port of Rotterdam, this could eventually contribute to better planning, shorter waiting times and more reliable transport by water.
…a single inland vessel can replace dozens of lorries? This means that inland waterway transport remains important for reducing road congestion and ensuring more efficient hinterland transport.
Stay informed about container congestion, terminal capacity and developments in inland shipping and ocean freight. Sign up now: