Thecla Bodewes Shipyards celebrated its 100th anniversary as an independent Dutch family-owned shipyard. During a festive event at the company’s headquarters in Kampen, a century of dedication, innovation, and craftsmanship was commemorated — and a historic milestone announced: the shipyard may now officially carry the honorary title ‘Royal’.
On behalf of His Majesty the King, the King’s Commissioner for the province of Overijssel, Mr. Andries Heidema, presented the honor. This prestigious distinction is the highest recognition a company in the Netherlands can receive and is reserved for businesses of national importance and enduring merit — such as this family company, which has been a pillar of Dutch shipbuilding for generations.
To mark the occasion, CEO Thecla Bodewes unveiled the company’s new name: Royal T Shipyards.
“The ‘T’ in our new name connects past and future — and it stands for more than just Thecla,” Bodewes explained. “It stands for Team – the people who make this company strong. For Tomorrow– our constant drive to move forward. For Together– because collaboration is our greatest strength. And for Trust and Tradition – the foundation of our craftsmanship. Royal T Shipyards is more than a name. It’s our promise to the future.”
“We achieved this together – across generations of colleagues, suppliers, and customers. Receiving this honorary title is the ultimate recognition for everyone who contributed to our growth and success.”
A Shipyard of national significance
King’s Commissioner Mr. Heidema emphasised the company’s exemplary role in the Dutch maritime sector: “Royal T Shipyards is a beacon of stability, vision, and craftsmanship within the Dutch manufacturing industry. It makes a strong impact both locally and internationally. The company bridges our rich Hanseatic heritage with modern maritime development — a vital link in the regional and national maritime economy.”
Mayor Sander de Rouwe of Kampen also praised the shipyard: “This yard has been a cornerstone of our community for decades — not only as an employer, but also as an educator, innovator, and proud ambassador for our region. The honorary title and the new name Royal T Shipyards are well deserved and a tribute to the dedication of Thecla Bodewes and her team.”
From Martenshoek to the world
What began in 1812 as Scheepswerven Gebroeders G. & H. Bodewes in Martenshoek evolved into a leading family-owned enterprise in Dutch shipbuilding. A turning point came 100 years ago, when the two branches of the Bodewes family set out on their own course and one branch established an independent yard in Hasselt – the foundation of the company as it exists today. Now, the seventh generation is at the helm.
Today, Royal T Shipyards operates from four strategic locations in the Netherlands and is internationally recognized for high-quality, innovative shipbuilding. The company delivers tailormade solutions for inland shipping, short-sea operations, pushers and the dredging sector — with a strong focus on zero-emission propulsion and sustainable technologies.
With the honorary title ‘Royal’ as a mark of distinction, a new name, and a forward-looking vision, Royal T Shipyards continues to build ships that matter — driven by technology, tradition and teamwork.
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