HYDROCONTEST DESIGN
Since 2014, HydroContest has spread a simple yet ambitious idea worldwide: what if students were to design a cleaner, smarter, and more daring maritime future?
HYDROCONTEST BY ENSM 2026 was born from this shared legacy and vision between engineers, seafarers, and educators. This one-of-a-kind international competition unites schools and universities worldwide around a common goal: to imagine, design, and sail eco-designed prototypes that will shape the future of sustainable maritime transport.
Today, the historic contest is reborn under a new name: HYDROCONTEST DESIGN
A global, practical, and purpose-driven competition!
A true incubator of ideas, it unites students from around the world with the maritime community. Each team designs, builds, and sails prototype vessels, following strict technical requirements and an ambitious eco-design charter.
Their mission: to design sustainable solutions for the future of maritime transport!
HYDROCONTEST DESIGN, it means:
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4 on-water races
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1 project pitch
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Professional and friendly meetings
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A vibrant international collaboration
THE CHALLENGES
During the 2026 edition, participating teams put their prototypes to the test through several technical and nautical challenges held at the Florence Arthaud Nautical Stadium in Marseille.
• Endurance Challenge
• Agility Challenge
• Light Load Transport – 40 kg
• Heavy Load Transport – 100 kg
• Technical Pitch & Jury Presentation
2026 AWARDS & RESULTS
A huge congratulations to all the teams who took part in the competition!
Participating in the HydroContest by ENSM project is a deeply enriching experience, combining human and technical exchanges. It transforms the traditional teacher–student dynamic into a truly constructive collaboration — highly effective and mutually beneficial — that also involves external partners, both technical and financial. Each new edition brings the chance to explore innovative solutions and grow our network of partners. An experience as diverse as it is inspiring.
Frédéric SPELLIERS
EEA Lecturer – Initiated the project for ENSM Marseille in June 2013, led it until June 2016, and now serves as supervisor of the HYDROSPEED TEAM.
PARTNER COMPANY
HYDROCONTEST DESIGN
As part of HC DESIGN 2026, TIMEZERO by MAXSEA provides its marine navigation software to participating teams.
Recognized for its advanced charting engine, high-performance routing tools and integration of weather data, satellite imagery and 3D bathymetry, TIMEZERO supports precise planning and informed technical decision-making.
By supporting HydroContest by ENSM, TIMEZERO enables students to work with a professional-grade navigation solution used by demanding maritime operators worldwide, strengthening the link between academic innovation and real-world maritime practice.