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Maritime transport is a significant mode of transportation in Europe, with the sea carrying almost as much transport as roads in terms of tonnes-kilometres. Despite its importance, maritime transport is often overlooked in favor of land transport. However, there is a growing interest in maritime transport at the national and European Union level, driven by economic and environmental concerns. The development of short sea shipping, sea lanes, and maritime highways is expected to reduce pollution and congestion on land infrastructure.

European countries are taking steps to promote maritime transport, with France, Germany, Belgium, and Spain investing in port infrastructure and developing new maritime policies. Germany has a fleet of 500 ships and is investing in a new deep-water port, while Belgium's maritime policy focuses on creating new basins and enlarging port-industrial zones. Spain's maritime traffic amounts to 350 million tonnes, with a fleet of 200 ships under the Spanish flag.

The Observatory on Transport Policies and Strategies in Europe is monitoring these developments and highlighting the need for strong coordination between maritime and land-based modes of transport. The organization is also emphasizing the importance of public intervention, in liaison with professionals, to address issues such as infrastructure, investment, organization, training, and experimentation.