IHK Schleswig-Holstein
Maritime research: driving innovation between the coasts

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A key driver of maritime research is the close cooperation between science, industry, and politics. The key players include:

• GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel: Internationally renowned for marine research, particularly in the fields of ocean circulation, seabed processes, and climate change, but also in the areas of munitions in the sea and carbon capture and storage.

• Christian Albrecht University of Kiel (CAU): Home to the “Future Ocean” cluster of excellence and Kiel Marine Science, an interdisciplinary centre for marine sciences. The CAPTN project is known far beyond Schleswig-Holstein.

• Kiel University of Applied Sciences & Lübeck Technical University: Engaged in practice-oriented research on marine technology, shipbuilding, sensor technology, and maritime digitization.

• Flensburg University of Applied Sciences: The Maritime Center offers the best conditions for navigators and maritime technicians, including its own ship simulator – for all sea conditions.

• German Aerospace Center: The Institute of Maritime Energy Systems focuses on emission reduction and decarbonization in shipping. Digital twins and maritime research facilities are used for this purpose.

• Helmholtz Centre HEREON: Takes an interdisciplinary approach to climate and coastal issues, bringing together the dynamics of coastal systems and the challenges of climate change.

These institutions conduct research on topics such as sustainable fishing, renewable energies (e.g., offshore wind), autonomous ships, underwater robotics, and the maritime bioeconomy. Maritime research approaches in Schleswig-Holstein are increasingly focusing on these fields of innovation:

• Decarbonization of shipping through alternative propulsion systems (e.g., hydrogen, e-fuels, wind assistance)

• Marine technology 4.0 with sensor technology, autonomous systems, and real-time digital data processing

• Coastal protection through intelligent dike systems, ecosystem monitoring, and climate-adapted planning tools

• Circular economy in the maritime industry, for example in the recycling of materials or sustainable boat building

• Clean seas through sensor technology and AI for salvaging ammunition and ghost nets

• Marine conservation through an ever-improving understanding of cycles, temperature changes, and the composition of water

Exciting innovations are also emerging in the field of sailing. Schleswig-Holstein, with its many sailing clubs, boat yards, and research initiatives, is fertile ground for technological and conceptual developments.

Examples of current research and development approaches in the field of sailing:

• High-tech sail materials: Lighter, more stable, and recyclable materials such as Dyneema, carbon, or basalt fibres are increasingly replacing classic Dacron sails. University laboratories are working on bio-based alternatives.

• Aerodynamic optimization: Simulations with CFD (computational fluid dynamics) software are used for sail shapes and rig design to increase efficiency and speed.

• Automation and sensor technology: Development of smart sails with integrated sensors that measure wind pressure, load, and torsion in real time – interesting for regatta racing and training.

• Sustainable production: Sail manufacturers and research groups are working on circular product designs in which materials can be reused or separated by type.

• Sports psychology and training analysis: Research projects in cooperation with Olympic training centres or universities, for example, are improving performance analysis in the high-performance sector.

Maritime research in Schleswig-Holstein is closely linked to academic education. Degree programs such as “Maritime Technologies,” “Ship and Marine Engineering,” “Coastal Engineering,” and “Sailing Performance” are training the next generation of specialists. Projects in cooperation with sailing clubs, schools, and universities promote maritime interest at an early age.

Programs such as “Sea Labs,” “Ocean School Kiel,” and the Innovation Workshop at Kiel University of Applied Sciences offer school and university students practical insights into marine and sailing research.

Maritime research in Schleswig-Holstein is dynamic, application-oriented, and socially relevant. It not only contributes to climate protection and technological innovation, but also to the development of new technologies and processes. Schleswig-Holstein is the maritime innovation lab with international charisma.

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