Copenhagen is once again set to take center stage as the hub of global shipping dialogue and innovation when the World Maritime Forum convenes on February 17–18, 2026.
Hosted at the Bella Sky Conference and Event Center, Denmark’s premier venue of its kind, this year’s edition is expected to be the most ambitious gathering yet, organized under the theme: “One event. World of maritime.”
More than 800 senior industry figures are scheduled to attend, including shipowners, ship managers, port authorities, service providers, technology companies, regulators, classification societies, government representatives, and policymakers. Over two intensive days, they will engage with the sector’s most urgent challenges and its boldest opportunities through a uniquely comprehensive program.
At the core of the 2026 agenda is a groundbreaking lineup of 12 panel discussions:
Scaling Maritime Decarbonization: What’s Proven, What’s Still Experimental
The Nuclear Option: Maritime’s Ultimate Game-Changer?
Alternative Fuels & Bunkering Infrastructure: From Fuel Choices to Supply Chains
The Invisible Enemy: Cyber Threats Sabotaging Global Fleets
From Crew Crisis to a Sustainable Future: Welfare, Skills & Collaboration
Innovation Meets Resistance: Cracking the Code of Shipowner Adoption — and Unlocking Real Fleet Solutions
Decarbonization Finance, Carbon Markets & Regulatory Mechanisms
Beyond Compliance: Maritime ESG and the Social License to Operate
The Digital Race: Front-Runners and Followers in Maritime Transformation
Trusting the Machine: Artificial Intelligence in Safety, Efficiency, and Compliance
The Wind Factor: Scalable Solution or Niche Technology?
Autonomous Fleets: Who Will Be in Charge When No One’s on Board?
In addition to the panels, the forum will feature two exclusive one-on-one stage conversations: Visions 2040+: Maritime Futures in an Era of Radical Change and From Shadow Fleets to Open Conflict: The Geopolitics of Maritime Risk.
Networking will play a central role, with over 50 exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge services and technologies, and countless opportunities for meaningful business connections. Attendees will also gain insights from presentations on breakthrough innovations, ranging from artificial intelligence and alternative fuels to advanced fleet solutions.
The first day concludes with a gala cocktail reception, giving participants the chance to exchange ideas in a more informal setting.
With its exceptional program, influential speakers, extensive exhibition, and wide-ranging participation, the World Maritime Forum 2026 is set to raise the bar for global maritime gatherings.
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: https://worldmaritime-forum.com/
• Organizer: IGGS Group
• Event video: Previous World Maritime Forum
• References: https://iggs-group.com/references/
This article is written by the IGGS Group. The opinions expressed herein are the author’s and not necessarily those of the Shipping Telegraph.
