The Netherlands is a maritime territory par excellence - and even partly reclaimed from the sea. It has a large number of bodies of water and a particularly dense network of canals. Most construction sites, even inland, are ultimately on the waterfront... Not huge production sites here: most construction sites are family businesses that have been in operation for two, three (or more!) generations. Structures specialized in a type of product and material that do not seek strong growth at all costs. Durability, quality, and finish make sense. Some boats come back to the shipyard... 100 years after they left for a complete refit! However, the models that we have discovered are nothing old-fashioned: although the lines are certainly classic, the equipment offered has nothing to envy to that of super yachts - wifi installation, air conditioning, underfloor heating, 220V etc. - and the equipment is also very modern.
While the smaller units on offer (less than 35/40 feet) are rather typified for river use, the larger trawlers are able to navigate in open sea in the harshest conditions, even to cross an ocean without refuelling. Dutch manufacturers seem to focus on range (and fuel economy) rather than speed - exceeding 20 knots is not on the agenda. However, engines are on the rise to appeal to a younger audience. Most of the customers of these yards are German and English, but the French seem to be increasingly interested in "trawler made in Holland".
Jachtbouw De Alm - Werkendam
The Alm shipyard specialises in steel units from 10 to 30 metres in length whose design is directly inspired by that of trawlers, like the central wheelhouse. The latest model is the Alm Del Fino Grand Voyager, available in 62 or 74 feet. With its robust 280 HP John Deere engine, it ensures a cruising speed of 8 knots. Another model, the Alm Schippers, is specially designed to operate on the narrower canals - including the French ones. Its size logically recalls that of a barge with a length of 21.5 meters but only 5 meters wide and an air draft limited to 3.45 m. Production: 5 to 6 boats per year.
Van de Hoven - Waspik
The three flagship models in the range are the 1500 Mk2, the 1700Mk2 and the 1850. Modern design and steel hull - unsuspected under the specific treatment and painting, operations that require three weeks of work - these trawlers are deliberately motorized in moderation: respectively 225, 2 x 225 and 2 x 300 hp for cruising speeds ranging from 8 to 11 knots. The new 2100 retains the same spirit over the long haul with two 300 hp and a speed of 12 knots. The shipyard is studying a more modern 18 m aluminium trawler topped by a discreet fly bridge. The hull and the two 553 hp engines are designed to exceed 20 knots. Production: 3 boats per year.
Elling - Aalst
Elling is probably the best known of the yards presented here: its export position is enviable. The boats are built in polyester and in small series. The range comprises three models: the E3, the E4 (400 units delivered) and the E6. All of them are partly customizable by the buyers. Elling trawlers stand out from their competitors by their higher speed - 15 to 20 knots - and above all by the care taken to ensure passive safety: all boats are self-righting, like our all-weather boats, and are backed up by a 70 hp auxiliary engine that is completely autonomous in the event of a failure of the main engine. The hulls are also fitted with an aramid fibre shield below the waterline to prevent any water ingress in the event of bottoming on rocks.
Linssen - Maasbracht
This shipyard offers a very complete range of trawlers designed for inland waterways and canals, with the exception of the Grand Sturdy 500 AC, designed for offshore use. The 11 models range from 30 to 50 feet and are made of steel. Most are available in two versions, Sedan or Hard Top. The 400 and 500 offer a mix thanks to a large removable hood that uncovers or protects the cockpit depending on the external conditions.
From Boarnstream - Jirnsum
Born in 1964, this manufacturer certainly offers the widest range with more than 40 steel models from 31 to 72 feet in five distinct ranges - Traveller, Elegance, Retro Line, Classic Line and Marex. All models offer refined amenities that are as comfortable as on land. The rather classic inspiration of these trawlers does not prevent innovation, as in the case of the Elegance 1280 Sedan, equipped with a rear axle locking system that allows XXL opening when the weather permits.
Sturiër Yachts - Stavoren
This manufacturer specializes in offshore trawlers. The hulls offered in steel or aluminium are 15 to 24 metres long. Most models are semi-planing boats capable of sailing at 20 knots or more. Innovative stabilizers have been designed to limit roll in heavy seas. The usual programme of DME and Dutchman is indeed navigation in the North Sea. The wheelhouse is centrally located, as is the owner's cabin, for optimum comfort. These models are usually prized by former sailboat owners.
North Line and Kuster Yachts - Harlingen
Two brands under the same yard. North Line offers 34 to 60 foot polyester units designed for the sea and extreme voyages with long keels and relatively powerful engines. The North Line Wheelhouse 42 easily reaches 30 knots with its two 480 hp engines. Many hulls are used for workboats - a great sign of ruggedness. Next to the North Line, the Kusters are wiser: their steel hulls and traditional shapes are more adapted to canals and inland waters.
