On the edge of Hirtshals Harbour, Denmark, stands a hidden giant: Flume Tank North Sea, Europe’s most enormous wave and current tank. Once little known outside specialist circles, it is now winning global attention, prizes, and partnerships.
From Local Secret to Global Stage
The flume tank, often nicknamed the Test Tank, has existed for more than 40 years in the North Sea Research Park. But only in recent years has it stepped into the spotlight. Since the Research Park took over operations in 2023, the facility has sharpened its commercial focus.
The effort has paid off. In 2025, Flume Tank North Sea was named “Best Marine Technology Testing Facility” by EU Business News. Visits from EU politicians, Danish ministers, and international companies now place the tank firmly on the world map.
Where Ideas Meet the Ocean
Inside the tank, researchers and companies test everything from fishing nets and trawls to fish farming cages and underwater equipment. With a volume of 1.2 million litres of freshwater, waves up to 25 cm high, and currents of 1 m/s, the facility can mimic the power of the sea in a controlled environment.
Beyond the water, the tank also holds a 60-seat auditorium, underwater cameras, a net-mending workshop, and advanced software for simulations. This mix of old craft and modern technology is key to its success.
Rooted in Hirtshals Harbour
Location matters. According to business development manager Mette H. Roussis, Hirtshals is not just a home but part of the DNA of the tank:
“We are among the few in the world who can build specialised models in trawl and nets. The old craft of net making is as important as engineering skills, and we want to preserve that knowledge.”
For Hirtshals Harbour, the tank is a significant asset. “Few ports can offer such facilities,” says Linn Indrestrand, Head of Fishery & Maritime Services. “It attracts partners from across the globe and makes Hirtshals more attractive for business.”
A Hub for the Blue Economy
Today, Flume Tank North Sea is fully integrated into the North Sea Research Park. Collaborations with DTU Aqua and Aalborg University show its growing scientific reach.
With international actors lining up, the tank is strengthening both the harbour and Denmark’s role in the future of the blue economy.