Blue Innovation Village at Ostend at Anchor 2026

The sea is often associated with traditional activities such as fisheries and shipping. At the same time, a new blue economy is emerging at sea, with innovative sectors focusing on sustainable energy, aquaculture, nature-based coastal protection and maritime security.

Offshore wind farms are perhaps the best-known example, but much more is happening. Researchers and companies are experimenting with seaweed, mussel and oyster cultivation at sea, while new technologies are being developed for monitoring, protecting critical infrastructure and enhancing safety at sea.

At the Blue Innovation Village during Ostend at Anchor, you can discover how companies, researchers and organisations are working on these new applications at sea. Visitors can explore innovative projects and learn more about the future of the blue economy. 

This year, you can once again find the Blue Innovation Village on Sint-Petrus- en Paulusplein (right in front of the church). The programme includes:

• Fascinating panel discussions with experts on various themes linked to the sea (Dutch only);
• Enthusiastic exhibitors who are happy to tell you more about their activities and projects;
• Demonstrations of various innovative products and services;
• Guided tours for schools on Thursday and Friday.

The number of places for the panel discussions is limited. Registration in advance is therefore required.

You can meet the following organisations in the Blue Innovation village:

• Agency for Maritime and Coastal Services;
• Antwerp Maritime Academy;
• Blue Cluster;
• DEME;
• Duikpunt - Duikschool Oostende;
• Elia;
• Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO);
• GeoXYZ;
• Jan De Nul;
• RelyOn; and
• University of Antwerp.

Ostend at Anchor is a free and publicly accessible event. For certain activities, the number of participants is nevertheless limited and it is advisable to register in advance. You can find all relevant information in this regard on the Ostend at Anchor website.

The festival is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm. Traditionally, Saturday and Sunday are the most crowded. If you want to explore the Blue InnovationVillage in a more relaxed way, we recommend that you come along on Thursday or Friday.