A Tour of Dutch Crafstman at Van der Valk Shipyard
Summer in the Netherlands is truly a delight—and the perfect time to check in and tour the facilities of Van der Valk Shipyard.
The Troyer family chose Leiden as base camp on our summer 2025 trip to the Netherlands, thanks to its ideal proximity to several top Dutch yards, including Van der Valk in Waalwijk.
Why Leiden? A Historic Hub for Yacht Builders and Dreamers
Leiden, a charming canal city in South Holland, grew from a Roman outpost into a medieval textile powerhouse. It survived a brutal Spanish siege in 1574, which earned the city Leiden University—the nation’s oldest, founded in 1575.
The city sheltered the Pilgrim Fathers from 1609 to 1620 and rebuilt after a catastrophic 1807 gunpowder explosion. Famous residents include Rembrandt, Jan Steen, and pioneering scientist Herman Boerhaave.
Today, Leiden is a vibrant academic center—and a growing hotspot for yacht design studios, including Guido de Groot Design.
Our Stay: Steenhof Suites – A Golden Age Gem Reborn
We stayed at the beautifully restored Steenhof Suites, a boutique hotel in downtown Leiden.
Housed in two adjacent 17th-century monumental canal houses at numbers 11 and 13 on ’t Steenschuur, this intimate retreat sits along a historic moat dug in the 13th century as an extension of the Rapenburg canal.
Originally defensive waterways, these canals were absorbed into the expanding city walls, evolving into prestigious residential avenues for Leiden’s affluent citizens. Iconic buildings like these became symbols of Golden Age prosperity.
Protected as national monuments, the structures were meticulously renovated—No. 11 in 2015 and No. 13 in 2018–2019—by a specialist firm. The result? A seamless blend of historical preservation and modern guest comfort, offering a small-scale, intimate stay amid Leiden’s living heritage.
Van der Valk Shipyard: A Family Legacy of Bespoke Excellence
A family-run company with a pedigree spanning generations, Van der Valk has earned a worldwide reputation for building custom motoryachts between 25 and 45 meters.
Uniquely in this size range, they serve clients who refuse off-the-shelf solutions. Each bespoke yacht is designed and built to the highest standards—with performance to match her stunning looks.
Everyone at Van der Valk—from craftsmen to engineers—is geared toward owners who want to immerse themselves in creating something truly special: a luxury motoryacht that is truly theirs.
Founded in 1967 by Dutchman Wim van der Valk, the yard rose to prominence over five decades with striking steel and aluminum motoryachts. Early success came with 7–10 meter cabin and aft-cabin cruisers, which quickly captivated the yachting public.
Inside the Waalwijk Production Complex
7 Halls, Precision Engineering
Van der Valk’s state-of-the-art production complex is located in Waalwijk, North Brabant—near Tilburg and ‘s-Hertogenbosch, just one hour from Amsterdam. It includes an office and seven climate-controlled production halls. The facility includes the main office for sales, marketing, PR, and leadership, and the two-floor production offices for purchasing, planning, and preparation. The meticulously designed halls for production, assembly, and finishing include a stand-alone carpentry center, and seemless work-flow design for efficient, expert craftsmanship throughout the build process. Van der Valk can facilitate the building of yachts up to 40 meters with three decks.
Van der Valk Current Projects: Bespoke Luxury in Motion
Van der Valk continues to redefine custom motoryacht excellence with semi-custom and fully bespoke builds from 25 to 45 meters. Their projects blend innovative engineering, timeless design, and owner-driven personalization.
Here are the stand-out ongoing and recently launched projects:
Project Zen (47.8m Custom Explorer)
Van der Valk’s largest build to date, this ambitious family-oriented superyacht started as a 36m concept but evolved into a 48m masterpiece. Commissioned by an experienced owner, it emphasizes intimate spaces with custom adaptations like swim-friendly designs for water-level viewing. Construction began in late 2025, showcasing full Dutch engineering prowess in aluminum semi-displacement hulls, with interiors tailored for seamless family adventures.
Project EVO (40m Superyacht)
The yard’s biggest in both length and volume, this 40m project kicked off in the Netherlands with designs from SFG Yacht Design and Cristiano Gatto Design. Currently under construction, it promises revolutionary space utilization and modern aesthetics, pushing the boundaries of Van der Valk’s in-house aluminum construction for ultimate customization.
Jangada 3 (Raised Pilothouse Successor)
An upgraded and enlarged iteration of the original Jangada, this project honors a repeat client’s loyalty with enhanced features like refined flybridge layouts. Building on classic Dutch lines, it’s a testament to Van der Valk’s ability to evolve beloved designs into next-generation icons.
MY LALABE (35.3m Flybridge) – Delivered 2025
Delivered earlier in 2025, this garden-inspired beauty features expansive outdoor spaces and a collaborative design by Guido de Groot and Paulo Calado. With naval architecture from Hans Maarten Bais and Jaron Ginton, it highlights Van der Valk’s focus on serene, nature-connected luxury—perfect for eco-conscious owners seeking performance without compromise.
ONE (Custom Motoryacht) – Recently Launched
Recently launched to much acclaim, this project exemplifies the yard’s new state-of-the-art Hall 7 facility, allowing simultaneous builds of larger vessels. Known for its highly distinctive modern-classic styling.
These projects reflect Van der Valk’s boutique approach—building just a handful of yachts annually to ensure every detail aligns with the owner’s vision. From steel classics to aluminum explorers, each vessel is a legacy on the water.
Building Your Dream Van der Valk
Troyer Yachts Guides You from Design to Delivery
At Troyer Yachts, we’re passionate about turning visionary ideas into seafaring realities—especially with the unmatched craftsmanship of Van der Valk superyachts.
Since 2006, our boutique brokerage has guided discerning clients through countless new builds, from initial sketches to sea trials.
If a bespoke Van der Valk in the 25–45m range is calling your name, let us navigate the journey with you.
How Troyer Yachts Ensures Your Project Sails Smoothly
1. The Concept
We help articulate your vision into a comprehensive brief, incorporating technical, operational, and market insights.
2. Selecting the Right Partners
Our consultants leverage strong relationships with top shipyards—including Van der Valk—to find the perfect fit.
3. Formulating the Contract
We negotiate every critical detail: budget, noise/vibration levels, delays, penalties, and more.
4. Design
We ensure all proposals align with your vision, functionality, and maritime regulations. Need a designer? We’ll shortlist the best.
5. New Build Project Management
Your dedicated Troyer Project Manager is available 24/7, liaising with the yard, designers, and naval architects to keep everything on track.
6. Sea Trials & Delivery
We attend trials with a fine-tooth comb, resolving any issues before your yacht is delivered in perfect condition.
7. After-Sales Support
Even after delivery, your project manager coordinates guarantee works—always protecting your interests.
Ready to Start Your Van der Valk Journey?
Partnering with Troyer Yachts means more than expert guidance—it’s about building lasting relationships in the superyacht world.
Andrew Troyer and our team bring Midwest sensibility to high-stakes deals, prioritizing your satisfaction above all.
Ready to begin? Contact Troyer Yachts today at troyeryachts.com or via LinkedIn.
Email: andrew.troyer@troyeryachts.com
