It has been an exceptional first half of the year at Van der Valk. Our 35-metre LALABE claimed four awards in total, three trophies at the BOAT International Design & Innovation Awards in Kitzbühel (Outstanding Exterior Design, Best Interior Design, and Best Naval Architecture), followed by a Judges' Commendation at the World Superyacht Awards 2026 in Venice, the industry's only peer-reviewed recognition. A remarkable result for the yacht, her owners, and everyone involved in the build.
At our shipyard, there has been a change in the leadership team. Evan Kortmann joined as Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Enrico Theuns, who has led the company since 2023 through a period of organisational development, growth and ownership transition. Originally appointed to guide the shipyard through a planned three-year transition following the retirement of founder Wim van der Valk, Theuns expanded the company into the 30-metre-plus segment and delivered notable yachts including LALABE, Jangada and Shine. Kortmann now joins the management team alongside Technical Director Bram Kooltjes and Commercial Director Yoeri Bijker, with Theuns remaining involved in the coming months to support a smooth handover.
On the water, MY Shine, our largest custom build to date at 39.92 metres, has successfully completed sea trials and has been delivered to her owners. More real-time images will follow soon. Meanwhile, the 35-metre Jangada completed sea trials as the third successive Van der Valk build for the same loyal owner, and the 34-metre ONE has found a new owner and heads to the Mediterranean this spring.
The build hall is as active as ever. Among the projects currently under construction, Project ZEN, our 48-metre flagship with a Hull Vane and transpacific range of over 4,400 nm, is on course for delivery in Q2 2028, while Project Berlin, a 30-metre custom raised pilothouse yacht, had her keel laid in November 2025 and is scheduled for delivery in summer 2027.
Finally, Van der Valk will be exhibiting at the Cannes Yachting Festival, and our team will be in Monaco for the Monaco Yacht Show this autumn. We hope to see you there.
Photo: vandervalkshipyard
