23-07-2025

A Dutch-Portuguese consortium launched MARSAI SAFE, an AI-based project to improve maritime safety.

Led by InspireXchange and centered around EVI Safety Technology, it will test systems at ENIDH’s new training center. The project aims to monitor real-time safety in ports, shipyards, and vessels using advanced AI tools.

This week, a consortium of Dutch and Portuguese partners officially signed a Letter of Intent to launch the MARSAI SAFE project, an AI driven initiative aimed at preventing workplace incidents and enhancing safety in maritime environments.

The signing ceremony took place at the Escola Superior Náutica Infante D. Henrique (ENIDH) in Oeiras, during the Oeiras Bluetech Ocean Forum organised by Fórum Oceano under the supervision of Pedro Patacho, City councillor of Oeiras, highlighting regional efforts to build a robust innovation ecosystem, and Esra Sen, the Deputy Ambassador of the Netherlands in Portugal, emphasizing the value of international startup collaboration.

Initiated by Platform Zero, the pilot project unites international organisations, signing a Letter of Intent by EVI Safety Technology, InspireXchange, ENIDH, and Platform Zero. The project will be coordinated by InspireXchange, a Dutch based innovation accelerator specializing in R&D collaborations and EU funding initiatives.

At the core of MARSAI SAFE is EVI Safety Technology, a Dutch startup accelerated by YES!Delft. EVI has developed cutting edge AI solutions for safety monitoring and incident prevention onboard vessels. With this project, EVI plans to adapt and extend its technology to other maritime environments, including shipyards, terminals, and port facilities, where real time safety monitoring is critical.

The project is designed to take place at the International Maritime Safety Center at ENIDH, established in 2024 as part of the Hub Azul School. This state of the art facility provides real world training for maritime professionals and offers an ideal environment to test and refine the system. The technology will monitor safety and student exercises, delivering valuable data to enhance training feedback and incident prevention strategies.

The consortium plans to submit a €1 million proposal under the Horizon Europe framework to fund further development and deployment of the pilot.

This collaboration represents a significant leap forward in maritime safety innovation and positions Oeiras and ENIDH as leaders in the digital transformation.

Want to get involved or learn more about the project? Reach out to Iris Bergshoeff-Klingeman via [email protected]