An Unrivalled Legacy: Management Buyout of Van der Valk Shipyard

Wim van der Valk has been at the helm of Van der Valk since its inception in 1967, and has marked his 79th birthday by announcing his retirement. A management buyout of the Dutch yard has now taken place, supported financially by a family of experienced yacht owners who have previously commissioned three custom yachts from Van der Valk: LeVen, EDGE and LADY LENE. 

‘The significant capital investment will enable Van der Valk to continue growing our unique niche in the market for bespoke yachts between 25 and 45 metres,’ commented Yoeri Bijker, Head of Sales. ‘The new primary shareholders fully understand our yard’s ethos having built several award-winning yachts with us and are committed to ensuring Van der Valk retains its Dutch structure, heritage and quality.’ 

In recent years, Van der Valk has solidified its position as one of the only shipyards in the world with the capacity and adaptability to build full-custom vessels of up to 45m. It boasts over 9000 sqm of facilities in Waalwijk, with its seventh construction hall opened in November 2023. 

Enrico Theuns, Bram Kooltjes and Yoeri Bijker make up the management team at Van der Valk, with decades of combined experience in the luxury yachting industry. Following the Founder's retirement, the team will continue to receive his ongoing support as an advisor to the board. 

Van der Valk has a full order book extending well into 2026, of which one project is the largest superyacht built to date, showcasing the bright future which lies ahead of this iconic shipyard. 

Bijker concluded: ‘We have a solid financial future as an independent entity with various options available for further expansion. Wim’s unrivalled legacy could not be in safer hands.’