The Netherlands has always had one of the best developed maritime industries in Europe and is currently one of Europe’s most influential players in the shipping industry, which is centered around Mainport Rotterdam; the largest port in Europe. The port processes over 400 million tonnes of cargo annually and remains as a vital driver of prosperity for the Netherlands. The Dutch shipping register currently includes more than 1,200 merchant vessels, which covers a wide variety of vessel types, among which dredging ships. The Netherlands maintains high standards in both operations and employment practices. This reputation is no accident as government policy has been crafted to support shipowners in maintaining competitive operations from within the Netherlands. Fiscal incentives, such as the ability to determine annual profits based on ship tonnage and subsidies reducing Dutch crew employment costs by approximately 30%, have helped retain and attract operators under the Dutch flag. The benefits of sailing under the Dutch flag extend beyond economics. Flexible crew regulations and access to additional maritime support services further incentivize shipowners to base their operations in the Netherlands. These measures have helped the country maintain a strong maritime cluster, with expertise in every segment of the industry—from short-sea shipping and offshore energy to shipping and marine engineering. The Dutch shipping industry hasn’t become a success story overnight. It’s taken centuries in fact. At one point in the 17th-century, the country dominated the global seas (an era affectionately known as the Dutch Golden Age) and Amsterdam was the epicenter of Baltic trade. The country is also the birthplace of to the world’s first yachts. It’s not an exaggeration to say the Netherlands has consistently shaped maritime progress in Europe. Today, the Netherlands remains at the forefront of industry developments. The country is home to the world’s largest reefer shipping company and boasts expertise in heavy-lift and offshore oil and gas operations.