Our key academic partner in the FOREMAST project, Ghent University (UGent), presented an important research paper at the 7th International Conference on Ship Manoeuvring in Shallow and Confined Water (MASHCON), which took place in Bruges, Belgium.

On 19 May 2025, Marc Mansuy from Ghent University delivered a presentation on the paper titled “Full scale manoeuvring tests with a Small, Flexible Automated, Zero-emission (SFAZ) vessel.” The paper showcased the results of full-scale manoeuvring tests carried out with an innovative zero-emission vessel, developed to enhance automation and sustainability in inland waterway transport.

The study provided valuable insights into the vessel’s maneuverability and operational performance, marking a significant step forward in the FOREMAST project’s goal of promoting smart, flexible, and green solutions for inland shipping.

As part of the event, the team also brought along FOREMAST flyers to share with conference participants and took a group photo to commemorate the occasion and enhance the project’s visibility.

The 7th International Conference on Ship Manoeuvring in Shallow and Confined Water (MASHCON) was jointly organiz«sed by Flanders Hydraulics and the Ships and Marine Technology Division at Ghent University, bringing together researchers and professionals to explore the latest developments in ship manoeuvring under shallow and confined water conditions.

The 2025 edition placed a strong emphasis on clean power in shallow water, addressing themes such as the green energy transition in shipping, the reduction of near-shore emissions, and the use of auxiliary propulsion technologies like wind assistance.

A total of 40 abstracts had been accepted, and the submitted papers presented during the conference were reviewed by the International Scientific Committee.