Monaco becomes the world capital of hydrography: the IHO General Assembly 2026 (April 20–23)

From April 20 to 23, 2026, Monaco will host the General Assembly of the International Hydrographic Organization, one of the most important global events for hydrography, seabed mapping, and maritime data standards.

The event, organized by the International Hydrographic Organization, will bring together delegations from 104 member states, along with government representatives, maritime authorities, and industry leaders.

A global forum shaping the future of the oceans

Held every three years, the General Assembly is the main decision-making body of the IHO. During the four-day event, participants will review sector progress and define strategic priorities for the next cycle, focusing on:

• technological innovation
• navigation safety
• maritime data standards
• international cooperation

The 2026 edition is particularly significant as it will include elections for the new Secretary-General and a Director, key leadership roles for the organization’s future.

Official opening with Prince Albert II

The opening ceremony on Monday, April 20, 2026, will be attended by Albert II of Monaco, a long-standing advocate for ocean conservation and marine science.

On this occasion, the prestigious Prince Albert I Hydrography Medal will be awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the field.

New members and international governance

The official sessions will be chaired by Michel Amafo and will include the welcoming of new member states: Cabo Verde, Kiribati, Gambia, Lithuania, Bahamas, and Panama.

This expansion highlights the IHO’s growing role as a global platform for maritime cooperation.

Technological innovation showcased at the Auditorium Rainier III

Alongside the institutional meetings, the Auditorium Rainier III will host an exhibition dedicated to cutting-edge technologies in hydrography and ocean mapping.

Among the highlights is the DriX O-16 developed by Exail, an autonomous surface vehicle designed for transoceanic missions, featuring advanced seabed mapping capabilities, up to 30 days of autonomy, and a range of 3,500 nautical miles.

Another key feature is the Nippon Foundation-GEBCO Seabed 2030 project, presenting the Bathysphere, an interactive globe that visualizes global seabed data and tracks progress toward complete ocean mapping.

Research vessels and naval presence

During the week, Monaco will also welcome major research and naval vessels, including:

• the US oceanographic vessel USNS Marie Tharp
• the Italian destroyer Caio Duilio

Their presence underscores the strong link between science, defense, and maritime innovation.

Focus sessions on smart navigation and ocean mapping

On Wednesday, April 22, 2026, two major thematic sessions will take place.

The first, “Smart Navigation”, will explore the impact of digital technologies and maritime services on navigation safety and efficiency, featuring experts such as Nathalie Balcaen, Bernice Mahabier, Erik Eklund, and Antonio Di Lieto.

The second session will focus on seabed mapping, highlighting global efforts to improve ocean knowledge, with contributions from Victor Vescovo, Joanna Post, and Salomé Mormentyn.

New partnerships and global access

During the Assembly, the IHO will sign cooperation agreements with the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and ProtectedSeas, strengthening global maritime partnerships.

For the first time, the opening ceremony and thematic sessions will be livestreamed on the IHO YouTube channel, making the discussions accessible to a worldwide audience.

Monaco at the heart of maritime innovation

With the 2026 IHO General Assembly, Monaco confirms its position as a global hub for ocean science, innovation, and maritime governance.

An event that not only defines the future of hydrography but also reinforces the Principality’s leadership in ocean knowledge and protection.