Damen Yachting Yachts History & Heritage
Damen Yachting, as a brand, was formally launched in 2020, bringing together various entities with rich histories.
Its headquarters, located in the historic Royal Schelde shipyard in Vlissingen, the southwest Netherlands, has a maritime legacy spanning at least 700 years. Originally a shipyard that constructed warships for the Dutch Navy, Royal Schelde was established in 1875 and became part of Damen in 2000.
Amels, the primary superyacht brand under Damen Yachting, traces its roots back to 1918 when it was founded as an independent builder. Specializing initially in wooden fishing vessels and steel tugboats, Amels shifted its focus to superyacht construction in the mid-1970s. Acquired by Damen in 1991, Amels continued to flourish and gain a reputation for excellence. The original Amels production site in Makkum operated for 14 years after the acquisition until 2005 when it was relocated to Vlissingen, where it remains today.
Damen Shipyard Group, the overarching entity, was established in 1927 by the Damen brothers, Jan and Rien. Originating as a shipyard on the Waal/Beneden Merwede River near Dordrecht, they initially built small commercial vessels. Kommer Damen, Jan's son, played a pivotal role in pioneering modular construction, transforming the shipyard into a global leader. Since Kommer Damen took charge in 1969, Damen Shipyard Group has built over 5,000 vessels, reflecting its continued success and innovation in the maritime industry. The company remains a family-run business, with Kommer Damen leading and shaping its trajectory into the future.
