Copenhagen to Host the Global Maritime Community for the 2026 World Maritime Forum photo

Copenhagen is set to once again become a key hub for maritime innovation and collaboration as the World Maritime Forum returns on February 17–18, 2026. This year, it will be held at the Bella Sky Conference and Event Center, Denmark's largest and most advanced conference venue.

The theme for 2026 is “One event. World of maritime,” and this edition promises to be the most ambitious and forward-thinking in the forum’s history.

Over 800 senior maritime leaders will come together, including shipowners, operators, port authorities, tech providers, classification societies, regulators, and government officials. They will discuss the challenges, opportunities, and innovations that are shaping the future of global shipping.

An Engaging Two-Day Program

The forum features a robust lineup of 12 expert-led panel discussions, each focusing on key issues driving change in the maritime industry:

  • Maritime Decarbonization: What's Working and What's Experimental
  • Alternative Fuels & Bunkering Infrastructure: From Fuel Choices to Supply Chains
  • The Invisible Threat: Cyber Risks Facing Global Fleets
  • From Crew Challenges to a Sustainable Future: Welfare, Skills & Collaboration
  • The Nuclear Option: Could It Transform Maritime?
  • Innovation vs. Resistance: How to Encourage Shipowners to Adopt New Solutions
  • Decarbonization Finance, Carbon Markets & Regulatory Matters
  • Going Beyond Compliance: Maritime ESG and the Social License to Operate
  • The Digital Race: Leaders and Followers in Maritime Change
  • Trusting Artificial Intelligence: Enhancing Safety, Efficiency & Compliance
  • Creating the Decarbonized Vessel: Technology Readiness and Integration
  • Autonomous Fleets: Who Is in Charge When No One Is On Board?

The agenda will also feature two high-level one-on-one discussions, offering valuable insights into the long-term outlook of the industry and the shifting geopolitical landscape:

  • Visions 2040+: Maritime Futures amid Radical Change
  • From Shadow Fleets to Open Conflict: Maritime Risk and Geopolitics

Networking, Technology, and Collaboration

Alongside the conference, participants will have access to a large exhibition area with over 50 exhibitors showcasing the latest in technology, services, and sustainable maritime solutions. Attendees can explore advancements in artificial intelligence, alternative fuels, and next-gen fleet systems, while connecting with stakeholders from across the global maritime supply chain.

The first day will wrap up with a gala cocktail reception, creating a relaxed atmosphere for networking and discussions.

Raising the Bar for Industry Collaboration

With its forward-thinking agenda, influential speakers, dynamic exhibition, and extensive networking opportunities, the World Maritime Forum 2026 is poised to set a new standard for international maritime events, further solidifying Copenhagen’s role as a global hub for maritime transformation.

  • World Maritime Forum
  • Dates: February 17–18, 2026.
  • Venue: AC Bella Sky Convention Center.
  • Address: Martha Christensens Vej 10 – Entrance 3, 2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark.
  • Website: worldmaritime-forum.com.
  • Organizer: IGGS Group
  • Event video: Previous World Maritime Forum
  • References: iggs-group.com/references/