Through the Ages: Van der Valk Shipyard

Van der Valk owes its unwavering success to a number of factors, one of them being its dedicated team throughout the generations that has continually evolved, and worked tirelessly to ensure that each partnership produces a superior product.

This world-renowned shipyard has always led with the sentiment that yachts must be safe, comfortable, innovative and efficient for those on board.

Through a perfectly calculated blend of science, technology, fine craftsmanship and close cooperation, Van der Valk is able to bring each owner's vision to life, all whilst considering price-quality ratio.

The Netherlands remains a sailing powerhouse, and has been so for many centuries. The word "yacht" is derived from the Dutch word "jaght", meaning to "chase". The yacht was said to be first invented by the Dutch in the 14th century, a vessel that could be used for various pursuits, which over time became a means for adventuring, particularly amongst Europe's wealthiest.

For Founder Wim Van der Valk, it all began with a similar "chase"; to channel that very same passion for yachting for pleasure, and for the pursuit of watersports. Founded in 1967, the yard gradually began to attract attention from the yachting community on a huge scale, most notably for its creation of cabin and aft cabin design cruisers from 7 to 10m.

With a rich heritage rooted in humble beginnings, Van der Valk has now amassed a global fleet of over 1000 motor yachts, and is still the only Dutch yard that builds vessels only within the 18-45m range. 

With a growing reputation, Van der Valk quickly became a staple yacht builder throughout the 1970's, most famous for the Valkkruiser, Comfort, Royal, Falcon and Super Falcon, all of which became a shining example and shorthand for quality within the industry.

By the mid 1980's, Van der Valk had launched its next venture, the Vitesse series. This series proved to be an impressive set of steel and aluminium semi-displacement motor yachts for high-end buyers. Boasting elements of progressive design, unique sailing characteristics and high resale value, the series soon became a global success.

The Continental I series, most prevalent throughout the 1990's, has now evolved into the shipyard's signature aesthetic. Hundreds were crafted for owners worldwide, complimented by the exterior design expertise of Guido de Groot, allowing Van der Valk to enter superyacht territory. 

Van der Valk continues to be praised for its forward thinking and innovation, not only for its distinctive appearance and designs, but its implementation of new technologies. The shipyard was the first to install two-axis fin anti-roll stabilisers, featured on the 37-metre Santa Maria T, launched back in 2013. 

The yard was also one of the first to recognise the potential of the revolutionary Volvo Penta IPS propulsion when it was introduced, developing a special hull and new models for this drive system. 

Van der Valk is a true gem of the yachting world, a Dutch pedigree builder of luxury yachts that offers clients an unprecedented level of customisation. 

Van der Valk’s facilities are located in Waalwijk, the Netherlands, just an hour drive from Amsterdam. Five state-of-the-art production halls are used for welding, assembly, electrical systems, piping and furniture installation.

We look forward to seeing more Van der Valk milestones hit the water.