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On 28 and 29 May, Oarsoaldea became the focal point of marine technology innovation as Pasaia hosted MarTech 2025, the leading international event in this field. Promoted by the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC) and organised for this edition by AZTI, the conference brought together cutting-edge developments and global experts.
The event attracted 130 participants from 12 countries, including representatives from five non-EU nations—underscoring MarTech’s growing international relevance as a travelling conference.
Over two packed days, participants explored the latest advances in underwater robotics, marine sensors, communications, data interoperability, artificial intelligence, and digital twins. Discussions centred on how these technologies can be applied to key sectors such as sustainable fisheries, environmental monitoring, and coastal resilience to climate change.
The conference featured 86 scientific contributions, including 25 long-form oral presentations, 25 short talks, 33 posters, and 3 plenary keynotes from leading international experts:
Talks were grouped into five key thematic sessions, each addressing vital areas of marine innovation:
The conference emphasised how artificial intelligence, open data, and protocol standardisation are revolutionising ocean information gathering. A major highlight was the potential of autonomous vehicle constellations—able to complement or replace traditional observation networks with unprecedented flexibility.
Alongside this, key structural and technological challenges were debated, including: the need for more efficient batteries for extended remote missions; ensuring data quality and reliability; the high costs of technological validation; and the urgency of forging lasting collaborations between science, industry, and public authorities for sustainable, long-term ocean observation.
La empresa , en colaboración con AZTI, ofreció una exhibición de tecnologías aplicadas, con vehículos autónomos de última generación como itsasdron (plataforma compacta eléctrica equipada con ecosonda y comunicaciones por radio), ranger (vehículo de 6 metros, altamente instrumentado con control remoto) y shelma (embarcación solar de autonomía extendida y capacidad para operar sensores de forma remota).
BRANKA, in partnership with AZTI, showcased state-of-the-art autonomous vehicles including itsasdron (a compact electric platform equipped with echosounders and radio communications); ranger (a 6-metre, heavily instrumented remotely operated vehicle); and shelma (a solar-powered craft with extended autonomy, capable of remotely deploying marine sensors).
The event also provided an occasion for socialising, with an interesting visit to Albaola at the end of the first day. An opportunity to experience the history and culture of the Basque Country through the pioneering construction techniques used for the first whaling ships that spread across the world in the 15th century.
Participation statistics reflected a vibrant and inclusive event: 24% were women, 23% students, and 20% of attendees came from sponsoring organisations—highlighting a dynamic, youthful, and interdisciplinary ecosystem fostering dialogue between scientists and tech providers.
The conference was held at Kulturgunea in Pasaia, with the support of Pasaia Town Council, the Basque Government, the Port Authority of Pasaia, and the Oarsoaldea Development Agency. It also benefited from the backing of European networks and platforms such as EMSO ERIC, JERICO-RI, EuroGOOS, and the IEEE Oceanic Engineering Society
The organisers extended special thanks to everyone who made MarTech 2025 a success: keynote speakers, participants, moderators, sponsors, attendees, and technical teams. A heartfelt recognition also went to Teo Alberro, Mayor of Pasaia, and Aizpea Otaegi Mitxelena, President of Oarsoaldea, for their unwavering commitment to blue innovation.
Further information and access to the proceedings: