Simworx has unveiled the Helios Experience, a new 4D cinema attraction at Portlantis, the Port of Rotterdam’s visitor centre. This immersive ride offers guests a dynamic exploration of Europe’s largest seaport through land, sea, and sky perspectives.
The Helios Experience combines a three degrees of freedom (3DOF) motion base with aeroplane-style harnesses and special effects, including wind and water mist, to simulate a high-flying journey across the port. Visitors are introduced to the fictional Helios Concepts, an innovative transportation company, and are given a tour of its high-tech workshop showcasing futuristic cargo solutions.
Terry Monkton, CEO of Simworx, commented, “We’re thrilled to open a new attraction in the Netherlands, a country so well known for amazing world-class visitor experiences. We thoroughly enjoyed working with the Port of Rotterdam, helping them to bring their incredible story to life, and creating an exciting, original attraction that shows what the harbour does and how it could transform the future.”
Portlantis, opened in March 2025, is housed in a geometric, demountable building designed by architecture studio MVRDV. The facility is fully energy-neutral, featuring reusable façade panels, 266 solar panels, and its own wind turbine. The building’s design, inspired by a Rubik’s cube, is organized into multiple levels, each with its own distinct theme to engage and inspire visitors.
The Port of Rotterdam Authority anticipates that Portlantis will attract approximately 150,000 visitors annually, offering an immersive experience into the port’s rich maritime history and its vision for the future.
Images: Simworx
