CHARTING A COURSE TOWARD THE FUTURE !

THE ORIGIN OF A COMMITMENT

HYDROCONTEST, A LEGACY THAT ENDURES

Born in 2014 from the initiative of the Hydros Foundation and EPFL, HydroContest quickly established its uniqueness: the first international student competition dedicated to nautical and maritime energy efficiency, a true laboratory of ideas where young engineers design, build, and test prototypes to “transport more, faster, while consuming less energy.”
Initially held in Lausanne (2014–2016) and later in Saint-Tropez (2017–2018), the event brought together teams from all over the world and concluded in 2019 with a final edition organized in French-speaking Switzerland, in Yverdon-les-Bains, with the support of partner institutions.

Photo de la Fondation Hydros, ancien organisateur de l’HydroContest

Behind this dynamic stood the leadership of Jérémie Lagarrigue and the decisive commitment of Geneva-based patron Thierry Lombard, a duo that gave Hydros the means to turn innovation into action, education into world records, and to unite people around a common ambition: paving the way for concrete solutions to the maritime transition.

After five highly successful editions, the Covid-19 pandemic brought the cycle to a halt in 2020. Yet its legacy remains strong: an international community, consolidated expertise, and an exemplary story of collaboration between foundations, universities (including EPFL), and both Swiss and international partners.

A foundation that today inspires the revival of the project, a legacy on which HydroContest by ENSM builds, carrying the torch forward with the same rigor and passion.
In the continuity of the visionary work initiated by the Hydros Foundation, we are now pursuing this collective adventure with the conviction that innovation and education remain the most powerful drivers for reimagining maritime transport.

Jérémie Lagarrigue, fondateur et directeur technique du projet

The journey continues

Today, the HydroContest by ENSM association takes the helm

Driven by a new generation of committed innovators, HydroContest by ENSM carries forward the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and energy transition that built its reputation. Discover how we are steering this legacy into the future.

Learn more

HYDROCONTESTBY ENSM

The flagship event for sustainable maritime innovation.

HydroContest by ENSM is a flagship event dedicated to sustainable maritime innovation, bringing together all stakeholders in maritime transport, professionals, industry leaders, startups, students, and the general public, so that together, we can rise to the challenges of a sustainable maritime future.

📅 Dates : April 28–30, 2026

📍 Venue : Stade Nautique de Marseille - Florence ARTHAUD (France)

A unique venue. A powerful collective spirit. An international journey.

🌍 10 nationalities united
⚙️ 4 HydroContest Design races
🔧 1 Rétrofit Challenge
⚓ Maritime careers in the spotlight
🤝 Professional meetings & experience sharing
🌞 Discoveries & activities for everyone
👥 Open to the public

New features!

HYDROCONTEST DESIGN

A challenge redesigned around an eco-design charter

A technical blueprint-style animation of a retrofited cargo ship appearing gradually, as i

HYDROCONTEST RETROFIT CHALLENGE

An unprecedented challenge focused on the eco-responsible modernization of an existing vessel

HYDROCONTEST CAP SUR LES VOIES DU MARITIME

A space dedicated to exploring maritime education and careers.

HYDROCONTEST LE BLOG

A forum open to all for sharing ideas and initiatives on maritime decarbonization.

Your articles on

hydrocontest@supmaritime.fr !

HydroContest by ENSM is a wonderful adventure that I would recommend to everyone. This kind of challenge encourages you to think about many different aspects of a vessel. There’s something for everyone, whether you want to innovate, work on 3D design, perform calculations, study economics, weld, or laminate, you’ll find your place and have the chance to develop your skills.
For me personally, this experience allowed me to discover materials that we rarely work with at ENSM but which are widely used in the maritime field. It also helped me strengthen my design abilities and my understanding of fluid-structure interaction. The team spirit that surrounds this project creates lasting bonds that will stay with you throughout your life.

Vivien LUTHY

ENSM Participant – 2016 Edition