Steeler Yachts, based in Steenwijk, has taken over the bankrupt Holterman shipyard from Meppel. According to Steeler owner Hans Webbink, the acquisition offers major opportunities for further development.
Founded in 1964 and known for its luxury yachts, Holterman Shipyard declared bankruptcy earlier this month. The company was facing serious financial problems due to a lack of new orders and rising aluminum prices. Despite a promising assignment on the eve of summer, a complete repair of a 42-meter sailing yacht, this success was not enough to break the financial difficulties.
Holterman Shipyard, which is currently building 16 new yachts, is strategically located just 10 minutes away from Steeler’s existing facilities and offers great opportunities for further development in the high-end segment of aluminum and steel yachts.
For Steeler Yachts, which does not lack orders but capacity, the acquisition comes at the right time. This makes the move to take over Holterman Shipyard a logical decision. It provides the opportunity to expand the production line and meet the growing demand for boats.
Steeler Yachts plans to resume production immediately, hiring primarily former Holterman employees. For the Holterman shipyard, the acquisition provides the opportunity to continue their work and passion after a period of uncertainty, providing much-needed job security.
Over the past decade, Steeler Yachts and Holterman Shipyard have been fierce international competitors, both receiving multiple international awards. Both companies are renowned for providing fully customized superyacht experiences to clients in the 50 to 100 foot range.
Steeler Yachts is confident that the shared expertise between the two teams will take the level of excellence in the custom yacht experience to a higher level.