Experience the World Port Days in Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a city that's all about movement and energy, and what better way to experience that than at the World Port Days? This annual event is a must-visit for anyone interested in maritime history, modern shipping, and the city's vibrant culture.

The event takes place on the Maas River, where you can watch massive cargo ships and naval vessels up close. The sheer size of these vessels is awe-inspiring, and you can learn more about their history and significance at the various exhibitions and displays.

One of the highlights of the event is the live demonstrations of ship-to-shore cranes, which are used to load and unload cargo from the ships. You can watch in amazement as these massive machines swing into action, lifting heavy containers and cargo with ease.

The World Port Days also features a range of activities for kids, including a "treasure hunt" where they can learn about the different types of cargo ships and their roles in global trade.

The World Port Days in Rotterdam have a rich history that spans over eight decades. The first event was organized in 1935 as a one-day event for prominent business relations, featuring a boat trip through the ports and a lunch at the former officers' society.

The event was initially organized by the Rotterdam department of the Dutch company for industry and trade and the board of the Havenbelangen Foundation. The first Port Day was held on September 12, 1935, as part of the 'VVV week'.

In 1978, the World Port Days transformed into an annual event open to the general public, featuring a fleet show with over 180 ships, including two belonging to the Dutch royal family. The event was attended by Queen Juliana and several members of the royal family.

The following year, the general public was given access to the normally closed industrial sites of the port, such as refineries and container terminals. This marked a significant shift in the event's focus towards public participation.

Today, the World Port Days have grown into a multi-day event, attracting close to half a million visitors every year. It has become the biggest maritime event in the Netherlands, showcasing the Port of Rotterdam's significance and importance.

Here are some key dates in the history of the World Port Days:

Rotterdam is bustling with activities during the World Port Days, with something to do everywhere in the city. Flags and large video screens can be seen in the centre, the region, and at Central Station.

Two sea containers will be placed for various performances, getting everyone excited for the event. You can already feel the maritime atmosphere in the city two weeks prior to the event.

The city is fully decorated in maritime style, with shop windows displaying unique harbour professions and a maritime festival at the Maritime Museum. This is a great opportunity to experience the city's maritime culture.

You can visit several ships from the Royal Navy, guided by a crew member, and discover some of their equipment with interactive games. This is a unique chance to get up close and personal with the ships.

The quays offer a range of activities, including a fun water education game that shows how tap water is made. You can also visit Boskalis, one of the biggest dredging and heavy lift companies in the world, and Oceandiva Nova for an exclusive look at their electrically powered event boat.

The World Port Days in Rotterdam are a must-visit event, with activities all over the city, from the city centre to the quays and the port itself.

During the event, the city is fully decorated in maritime style, with shop windows displaying unique harbour professions and a maritime festival at the Maritime Museum.

You can visit several ships from the Royal Navy, guided by a crew member, and discover some of their equipment with interactive games.

New to the programme in 2024 is a central Festival Square on Baltimoreplein, with performances, interviews, dialogue, cultural and nautical events, and more.

Boskalis, one of the biggest dredging and heavy lift companies in the world, is another operation you can visit and interact with on the quay.

The World Port Days' excursion programme will give you a look behind the scenes at the companies in the port and take you on cruises through the port and city.

You can choose between cruises around the port on different types of ships, from a classic three-masted sailing ship to an elderly tug boat, a Port of Rotterdam Authority catamaran, and other modern ships.

Taking an excursion or tour to further afield is also an option, where you'll find more nature than you thought possible in a port.

The Maasvlakte bike tour is a great way to see the 21-hectare Bird Valley and a natural dune landscape.

Rotterdam is a city that's always buzzing with energy, and the World Port Days are the perfect time to experience it. The city is fully decorated in maritime style, with shop windows displaying unique harbour professions and a maritime festival at the Maritime Museum.

You can visit several ships from the Royal Navy, guided by a crew member, and discover some of their equipment with interactive games. The city's quays are also home to interactive exhibits, where you can learn about tap water production with a fun water education game.

Boskalis, one of the biggest dredging and heavy lift companies in the world, offers a behind-the-scenes look at their operations. You can also explore Oceandiva Nova, an electrically powered event boat that gives you an exclusive look inside.

The World Port Days' excursion programme takes you on cruises through the port and city, offering a unique perspective on the city's maritime industry. You can choose between cruises on different types of ships, from a classic three-masted sailing ship to a Port of Rotterdam Authority catamaran.

The World Port Days are an exciting event that caters to all ages. Whether you're young or old, there's always something to experience.

You can explore the latest maritime technologies, which is a great way to learn about the latest developments in the field.

Thrilling rescue operations are also a highlight of the event, showcasing the bravery and skill of rescue teams.

Interactive workshops are available for kids, providing a fun and educational experience.

The Festival and Harbor area is a must-visit during World Port Days. Admission is free, just like most of the event.

You can find the Wereldhaven Festivalplein, a lively hub of performances, interviews, and cultural activities, on the Baltimoreplein between the Cruise Terminal and the World Port Center on the Wilhelminapier.

The Wereldhaven Festivalplein is open from Friday 6 September at 10:00 AM to Saturday 7 September at 11:00 PM, and on Sunday 8 September until 6:00 PM.

The World Port Days are a true celebration of collaboration in Rotterdam, where the Port of Rotterdam, maritime companies, and the Dutch Navy come together in a remarkable display of unity.

You can witness this collaboration firsthand during your visit, and I'm excited to share some of the highlights with you.

At the World Port Days, you'll see the Port of Rotterdam working closely with maritime companies to showcase their latest innovations and technologies.

The Port of Rotterdam is a major player in the global maritime industry, and its collaboration with other organizations is a key factor in its success.

During the World Port Days, you'll have the opportunity to see the Port of Rotterdam's operations up close, and learn more about its role in the maritime industry.

The Dutch Navy also plays a significant role in the World Port Days, and you'll have the chance to see its vessels and personnel in action.

At Hotel Unplugged, we're committed to ensuring that you don't miss out on any of the exciting activities and events taking place during the World Port Days.

The Festival Square is a fantastic addition to the World Port Days event. Located on the Baltimoreplein, it's situated between the Cruise Terminal and the World Port Center on the Wilhelminapier.

You can find the Wereldhaven Festivalplein, the actual name of the Festival Square, on the Baltimoreplein. It's a large open space that's open to the public.

The Festival Square will be open on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 September from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM, and on Sunday 8 September until 6:00 PM. Admission is free, just like the rest of the World Port Days event.

You can enjoy a variety of activities at the Festival Square, including performances, interviews, debates, and a cultural and nautical program.