Nico van der Kolk
Founder & Naval Architect
AlbatrosDigital
Rotterdam, Netherlands
My organisation
About me
I’m Nico, a naval architect with a passion for redefining how ships are designed, powered, and operated. My expertise lies in advanced ship hydrodynamics and wind propulsion technologies, which I’ve applied across my career to create greener, more efficient maritime solutions.
As the founder of AlbatrosDigital, I’m focused on shaping the future of maritime operations through digital twin technology. From design to real-time monitoring, we’re building tools that improve efficiency, performance, and sustainability across the shipping industry.
Over the years, I’ve worked on projects that push boundaries. I earned my Ph.D. in Ship Hydromechanics from Delft University of Technology, where I contributed to innovative research on wind-assisted ships. My professional journey includes leading roles at Blue Wasp Marine and Groot Ship Design, where I combined cutting-edge technology with a commitment to reducing emissions and improving ship performance.
At AlbatrosDigital, my goal is to make smart, sustainable shipping a reality. Whether through collaboration or sparking new ideas, I’m always eager to connect with those who share a vision for a better maritime future.