Automation is steadily making its way onto Europe’s waterways. In Amsterdam, local partners of metaCCAZE recently demonstrated important progress towards automated inland shipping using a ZoevCity barge, showcasing how digital technologies and advanced vessel control systems could shape the future of sustainable urban logistics.
During a live demonstration for Gemeente Amsterdam and AMS Institute, the team successfully controlled the vessel using high-precision localisation and accurate steering of the azimuth and bow thrusters. While the barge currently follows manually defined waypoints at a deliberately slow and controlled pace, the demonstration marked a significant milestone in bringing automated sailing closer to real-world operation.
Behind the scenes, the progress is powered by extensive testing and simulation work. One important activity is the so-called SIPE process, System Identification & Parameter Estimation. During these testing sessions, the vessel performs unusual manoeuvres such as zig-zag movements, sharp turns and sudden accelerations. These tests help engineers better understand how the vessel reacts under real conditions and provide valuable data for improving simulation models and control algorithms.
The goal is to accurately replicate vessel behaviour in a digital environment, including delays between thruster commands and the actual vessel response. By narrowing the gap between simulation and reality, the team can optimise automated sailing systems more efficiently while reducing the need for costly operational trials.
The next development step will focus on automatic waypoint following, enabling the vessel to autonomously sail complete routes from point to point while maintaining the same level of precision and control demonstrated during the recent tests.
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More about metaCCAZE Trailblazer City, Amsterdam
The Amsterdam Living Lab in metaCCAZE focuses on developing and testing innovative solutions for sustainable urban mobility. By leveraging the city’s unique canal system and exploring smart technologies, the lab aims to reduce congestion, improve air quality, and optimise public space usage, making Amsterdam a model for future urban environments. Find out more here.














