Bodewes Shipyards

Royal Bodewes is a shipyard based in Hoogezand, the Netherlands, with a history of over 200 years. It specializes in building general cargo vessels, cement carriers, and special vessels, focusing on sustainable and innovative designs.

Royal Bodewes was founded in 1812 in Martenshoek, the Netherlands, producing wooden barges and coastal vessels. In 1911, the introduction of the diesel engine led to the construction of motorised barges and coastal vessels. In 1931, the first fully powered (without sails) coastal vessels were built. During the Second World War, German occupiers took over the shipyard. In 1951, HRH Prince Bernhard visited the shipyard. In 1970, a new construction hall was built, and the business operated its own shipping company with an average fleet of five vessels. In 1988, a contract was signed to build two multi-purpose ro-ro vessels, the very first of its kind. In 1997, the Bodewes yard became fully family owned again. In 2010, Nescos Shipping B.V. was founded as a partnership between Bodewes and UAL for building and operating Eco Trader 8700 vessels. In 2012, Bodewes received a royal designation at the celebration of its 200th jubilee.

1. We build sustainable ships - Royal Bodewes
2. About us - Royal Bodewes
3. Our team - Royal Bodewes