An innovation hub for sustainable, cutting-edge marine technologies
Led by INESC TEC, the Leixões Blue Hub is a strategic infrastructure embedded within the Port of Leixões, one of Portugal’s most active maritime gateways.
It serves as a testing and demonstration ground for sustainable port technologies, marine robotics, digital maritime systems, and integrated energy solutions— accelerating conditions for a more sustainable Blue Economy, under the context of climate and digital transitions.
Our Focus
At the intersection of ocean research and innovation, industry, and logistics, the Leixões Blue Hub supports the test and deployment of marine technology and infrastructures in controlled, simulated conditions.
It promotes the transition toward climate-smart, digitally connected, and resource-efficient maritime operations.
The ocean basin, under construction in the Port of Leixões Logistics Platform II, will be one of the biggest in Europe for marine technology testing.
The multipurpose test tank will be 10 metres deep, 60 metres long and 30 metres wide.
This structure will also include a 30-metre-deep diving well, designed for scientific and technical diving, making it one of the most advanced test environments for multidisciplinary marine applications.
A Broader Ecosystem for Blue Economy Innovation
Beyond its testing infrastructure, the Leixões Blue Hub connects R&D with a wider network of sea-related sectors — ranging from ports and fisheries to energy and biotechnology. It supports innovation in line with the twin digital and climate transitions, and fosters knowledge exchange between research, industry, and public authorities.
As part of this broader ecosystem, the Hub will host CIIMAR’s Blue Biobank of the North, to be located at the Port’s Cruise Terminal. This facility will map and manage access to marine biological resources, supporting biodiversity research and sustainable bioeconomic use.
Strategic Value
The Leixões Blue Hub reinforces Portugal’s role as a testing site for emerging ocean technologies.
Together with INESCTEC.OCEAN, it provides a unique environment to bridge lab-based R&D+I and real-sea trials — accelerating readiness, reducing risks, and enhancing the quality of ocean-based solutions.
