URK – Balk Shipyard has come under new management. Daan Balk, the seventh generation at the yard’s helm, has opted for early retirement.
The yard’s new leadership is led by Evan Kortmann, Chief Commercial Officer, and CFO Ronald Frijling. Daan Balk remains a board member and advisor to the yard.
Kortmann joined Balk Shipyard just over a year ago, coming from Sevenstar Yacht Transport, where he was managing director and founded a similar company in 2018. Kortmann understands the industry and will continue the history of Balk Shipyard.
He says he will continue Daan Balk as a refit yard. “Northern Europe is a treasure trove of superyacht experiences waiting to be discovered,” he says.
“From the spectacular Northern Lights in Norway’s Lofoten Islands to the awe-inspiring spectacle of Iceland’s volcanic islands in Vestmannaeyjar, the region is truly magnificent. Traverse the Inner Hebrides in Scotland, where centuries-old whisky distilleries await, or set your course for Svalbard within the Arctic Circle, a realm of pristine wilderness.
“Superyachts should consider planning itineraries here not just for the refit advantage but to embark on journeys that redefine luxury, adventure and cultural immersion.”
The yard was founded in 1798, on land reclaimed from the sea. It specializes in refitting and rebuilding yachts up to 65m (213ft) and building aluminum hulls. Balk Shipyard’s current location includes a 1,200-ton ship elevator.
Daan Balk had been owner and director of the shipyard since 1998. It experienced substantial growth.
Over two years ago, Balk agreed to become part of Zhongying International Holding Group in China. At the time, Balk told this newsletter, “First and foremost was what is best for the future of the yard and the employees.”
But as parents, you also decide on the future of your children. They are currently focusing on their careers. To remain competitive as a yard in the superyacht market requires enormous investments. The question was whether we still wanted to and could afford that as a family.
Any setback can be fatal with such significant financial commitments. The world has changed, including the yacht-building world.”
The financial backing of the Chinese company will make a move to a more prominent location possible in the future. The yard wants to move to the newly constructed harbor north of Urk.
About the change in management, Balk says, “Balk Shipyard needs new energy to remain a dynamic company, and in my opinion, that includes a new perspective. With Evan Kortmann at the helm, we can provide a perfect interpretation of that.”
Balk Shipyard has an average annual revenue of €15 million and 50 employees. That employee count triples during the season, with many temporary workers and subcontractors joining the team.
