25 luxury yacht deliveries are expected from Dutch yacht builders in 2016. In 2015, Dutch shipyards launched 22 superyachts – six more than the year before – and totalling a worth of €1.18 billion. On top of the 22 launches in 2015, members of the HISWA Holland Yachting Group also received 24 new superyacht orders, which was an increase of more than a quarter compared to 2014.
Feadship – New Amsterdam facility location
The recent increase in demand for superyachts has created an atmosphere for expansion in the Netherlands. Feadship has recently announced it will open a fourth manufacturing and refit facility in Amsterdam, and fellow members of HISWA Holland Yachting Group are finding creative solutions to the escalation in orders and deliveries.
“There are a number of key reasons why the superyacht industry in the Netherlands has come through the global downturn in rude health,” Jeroen Sirag, export director for the HISWA Holland Yachting Group, comments. “One critical factor has been a longstanding commitment to investing in the future during both good times and lean, with Dutch yards keen to ensure they retain their globally recognised lead in quality and innovation. The same applies to the Dutch equipment suppliers who consistently seek new ways to ensure their first-class products and technologies adorn the finest superyacht builds both in the Netherlands and further afield.”
Heesen Yachts has expanded to meet growing demand from clients for larger superyachts by constructing a new 85 metre dry dock in Oss. The facility is expected to be operational by October this year. The sailing yacht sector has also seen expansion: Royal Huisman and Holland Jachtbouw have both increased their build hall capacity.
Heesen Yachts – GALACTICA STAR, launched May 2015
Dutch marine equipment supply companies are also making significant changes. Hydromar Marine Equipment moved to a new production facility during 2015 to strengthen its relationship with Cramm Yachting Systems as they continue to make and market superyacht hydraulics. Van Berge Henegouwen has not only moved into Amsterdam offices which include a professional workshop and testing facilities, they have also opened a new office in Antibes, France to be ‘closer to the yachts and… improve support and service for our customers’.
Van Berge Henegouwen isn’t the only company expanding abroad as Huisman Maritiem, Heinen & Hopman add offices and facilities across the Mediterranean and De Keizer opens its seventh location in West Palm Beach, Florida.
“All these new initiatives and investments showcase how the members of the HISWA Holland Yachting Group are looking to continue offering the best possible services to their clients,” concludes Sirag. “Equally important, of course, is the industry-leading experience and skills of the workforce at the various yards and supply companies. This remains the backbone of the Dutch superyacht cluster and the number one reason why Holland continues to rule the waves.”
