The international STARSHIP consortium, led by Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences (Rotterdam UAS) and its Centre of Expertise HRTech, has been awarded a substantial SIA RAAK PRO grant. With this funding from Regieorgaan SIA, the consortium will begin research in February into the safe and efficient handling of autonomous vessels in shipping traffic and port logistics processes.
In the development of autonomous shipping, the focus is primarily on technological innovations on board. At the same time, its introduction requires major adjustments in processes, organisation, regulations and cooperation within ports. The STARSHIP project therefore focuses on designing reliable, safe and efficient processes and systems that enable companies and professionals to successfully integrate autonomous vessels into the port ecosystem.
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Three design challenges
The research is structured around three design challenges:
- Automation, crew reduction and new task allocation on board.
- Alignment between autonomous vessels and port logistics processes.
- Safe guidance by waterway authorities and pilot services when autonomous ships enter port.
Within each theme, solutions are developed in close cooperation with stakeholders, with a strong focus on practical applicability.
What will change in practice?
The societal urgency of this research is considerable: the number of seafarers is declining while the maritime sector continues to grow. STARSHIP examines how ships with smaller crews can continue to operate safely and effectively in port environments. This requires substantial changes in processes, organisation, communication and sector skills.
The research focuses on the conditions under which autonomous vessels can safely sail, navigate and berth within existing and future port infrastructures. The short sea route between Rotterdam and Oslo — where the first autonomous ships are expected in 2027 — serves as a case study.
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Concrete results for ports and industry
Project outcomes include:
- A model for task allocation on zero-emission vessels and determining crew size as automation increases.
- A process design and business model for the logistics handling of autonomous ships in ports.
- Clear communication guidelines between autonomous vessels, port authorities and other stakeholders within the port ecosystem.
Rotterdam UAS as a maritime knowledge hub
Through practice-based research and bachelor’s and master’s programmes, Rotterdam UAS provides knowledge and expertise to the maritime and logistics sectors in the Rotterdam region. With this project, the university connects education, research and industry to proactively anticipate technological and societal developments, such as labour shortages in the sector.
Marleen Goumans, Director of CoE HRTech: ‘The SIA RAAK PRO grant confirms the quality and interdisciplinary approach of our consortium. We are joining forces with universities of applied sciences, research universities and industry partners from the Netherlands and Norway. In addition, we actively involve Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences students — the logistics managers, IT specialists and maritime engineers of tomorrow — in knowledge development and practical implementation.’
The consortium is supported by strong partners, including Samskip, the Port of Rotterdam Authority, NTNU University of Applied Sciences (Norway), TU Delft, STC Group and other public and private stakeholders.
Picture: A SeaShuttle from the Hydrogen-Powered SeaShuttles (Samskip) project — currently under construction and not yet operational — illustrates the type of vessel on which autonomous sailing is likely to be tested (image supplied by Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences).
Also read: Dutch maritime universities of applied sciences launch joint research platform
