As part of MIPRO Robotics – the 5th Robotics Conference and the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the University Regatta ELMAR (1996–2026) in Zadar, the Robot-Drone Demo Convoy will take place on Saturday, September 12, 2026. To mark the anniversary, the jubilee regatta Zadar – Kukljica – Zadar will be held, enriched by a demonstration of advanced autonomous robotic systems in a real maritime environment.
The Robot-Drone Demo Convoy is a unique combination of sport, science, technology and industry. Its aim is to demonstrate how modern autonomous technologies can contribute to the advancement of maritime activities, environmental protection, marine research, navigation safety and the development of new economic activities.
A fleet of 10-20 sailing boats, with skippers provided, will welcome guests from academia, industry and the media for a convoy sailing from Sailing Club Uskok in Zadar towards Kukljica. Each boat can accommodate an additional 5-6 participants.
Participants of the conference and invited guests are invited to join the boats. The convoy is also open to anyone interested in participating with their own boat, either privately owned or rented.
The event is organized by MIPRO, the University of Zadar, Ruđer Bošković Institute and the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing, with the support of Sailing Club Uskok. The demonstrations will be carried out by the staff of the MARBLE Centre of Excellence.
Event Objective
As part of the Robot-Drone Demo Convoy, a practical demonstration of modern autonomous maritime systems developed within the MARBLE, ARTEMIS project with the support of VANDRI Robotics and other manufacturers will be held.
The main objectives of the demonstration are:
- demonstration of the capabilities of modern autonomous maritime technologies in real-world operating conditions,
- presentation of cooperation between surface, air and underwater robotic systems,
- demonstration of the application of artificial intelligence in autonomous navigation and task execution,
- promotion of research, innovation and development of advanced robotic technologies,
- connecting the scientific community, industry and students through a practical presentation of new technologies.
Program
08:00 - Gathering of participants at Sailing Club Uskok
08:15 - Welcome address and presentation of the program
08:30 - Celebration of the 30th anniversary of the University Regatta ELMAR and commemorative video presentation
08:45 - Presentation of the MARBLE project
09:00 - Preparation for departure and distribution of lunch packages
09:30 - Departure of the convoy
11:00 - Anchoring in front of Kukljica
11:30 - Demonstration of autonomous systems (USV, UAV and ROV)
12:30 - Berthing at the transit pier of Kukljica Marina
13:00 - Land demonstration and gathering
14:00 - Open public discussion Vision of the development of robotics and artificial intelligence
15:00 - Gathering on the terrace of the Jadran café with a refreshment and music
17:00 - Departure towards Sailing Club Uskok
19:00 - Joint dinner at Sailing Club Uskok
20:00 - Social gathering
Before sailing, an introductory presentation of the MARBLE, ARTEMIS and MULTISTEM projects will be organized for all participants at the premises of Sailing Club Uskok.
Presentations include:
- project objectives,
- development of autonomous maritime systems,
- research results,
- potential applications in marine protection, monitoring, navigation safety and scientific research in the Adriatic.
Technical presentation of the equipment
All platforms participating in the demonstration will be presented:
- autonomous surface vessel (USV),
- unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV),
- remotely operated vehicle (ROV),
- sensor systems,
- communication infrastructure,
- control and safety systems.
Participants will learn about the operating principles of the systems, communication between the platforms, and the safety protocols applied during the demonstration.
| Humanoid Robots – From Walking to Dancing |
As part of the presentation of MULTISTEM project, a demonstration will be held to showcase and demonstrate the locomotor capabilities of humanoid robots. The robots Tonka, Jože, and the Dog in a completely lifelike form will participate.
The sea and land demonstration will take place in the Kukljica waters and in the center of Kukljica at a suitable location that ensures safety and excellent visibility for all participants. The vessels participating in the Robot Convoy will be anchored in Kukljica Bay. Upon completion of the demonstration, the vessels will be deployed to berths in the port of Kukljica, at the Zelena Punta pier, and at the transit berths of the marina.
Demonstration Program
The demonstration consists of three interconnected operational segments.
A. Autonomous Surface Vessel (USV) Demonstration
The first part of the demonstration will showcase the capabilities of an autonomous surface vessel.
The following will be demonstrated:
- semi-autonomous navigation,
- maintaining a predefined route,
- automatic positioning,
- adaptation to waves and sea currents,
- precise control with minimal operator intervention.
Participants will have the opportunity to observe the operation of the autonomous navigation system under real sailing conditions.
B. Sea Sampling Using an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)
The second part of the demonstration will showcase the use of an unmanned aerial vehicle for marine monitoring purposes.
The drone will perform:
- autonomous flight to a predefined location,
- stable hovering above the sea surface,
- lowering of the sampling system,
- collection of a seawater sample,
- return to the starting location.
The demonstration will illustrate the potential for rapid sample collection in hard-to-reach areas without the need to deploy a research vessel.
C. Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) Demonstration
The third part of the demonstration will showcase the capabilities of a remotely operated underwater vehicle.
The planned activities include:
- diving in front of the pier,
- underwater inspection,
- seabed inspection,
- inspection of underwater objects and structures,
- real-time video transmission.
Participants will be able to follow the entire demonstration on a large screen via a live video feed from the underwater camera.
D. Land locomotion demonstration of the humanoid robots TONKA, JOŽE and DOG
| |
Public debate in the open space |
Vision of the development of robotics and artificial intelligence
A public debate will be organized on the open-air stage in the central square of Kukljica on challenging topics of how robot and artificial intelligence technology will change our lives and society. The discussion will be attended by prominent experts and project managers from universities and the economy. The discussion will take place with a loudspeaker for a wide audience of participants, locals and tourists.
The demonstration of humanoid robots will continue. After the demonstration program, a socializing and open public discussion in the open space about the Vision of the development of robots and artificial intelligence with participants and media representatives is planned.
The thematic discussion will cover:
- what awaits us as life changes,
- questions about the operation of autonomous systems,
- application possibilities in the economy,
- scientific and research challenges,
- future development of robotics and autonomous maritime technologies.
Registration
Those interested in participating should register at the following link:
https://forms.gle/6boZJs77NqPwh1fE9
Contact
e-mail: mipro@mipro.hr
GSM: 098 209 816
Location
Zadar, one of the oldest cities on the Adriatic, blends ancient heritage with modern life. Its Roman forum, medieval churches, Venetian fortifications, and iconic Sea Organ attract visitors worldwide. Surrounded by islands and national parks, it offers stunning sunsets and rich cultural experiences.
With top hotels, gastronomy, and festivals, Zadar unites history, innovation, and Mediterranean charm. Today, it is also an emerging hub for congresses, technology, and sustainable development in Southeastern Europe.
For more details, please visit https://zadar.travel/.