Amsterdam Yacht Builders: a new force on the Dutch superyacht scene

Leveraging on a century of experience and managed by people with a first-class reputation in the superyacht sector, Amsterdam Yacht Builders is based at a prime location in the Dutch capital. The new, highly experienced owners of a yard which dates back to 1921 are taking a down-to-earth approach to new builds, refits and maintenance work. They've also invested heavily in a facility that offers a broad range of services to sailing and motoryacht owners.

The Amsterdam Yacht Builders yard now covers 12,000 square metres of hard-standing space, three floating docks for vessels up to 70 metres, a 50 x 30-metre construction hall, a metal-working shed and several cranes. The installation of the largest boat lift in the Netherlands, suitable for vessels up to 480 tonnes, speaks volumes for the ambitious plans of the leadership team.

As the company motto 'For sailors, by sailors' suggests, everyone working at AYB has boating in their blood. "We know what a big decision it is to entrust your prized possession to a yard for major refit and maintenance work," says managing director Robert Binnekade. "It's a specialised line of work that requires a dedicated approach and the ability to return yachts to clients in the best possible condition."

At the heart of the straight-talking approach at Amsterdam Yacht Builders is a transparent way of doing business. "When we say no hidden surprises or costs, we mean it. Our low overheads, flat organisation and open lines of communication enable us to provide clients with a clear breakdown of expenses. Offering a genuinely balanced price-quality performance is the best possible way to ensure owners and captains become repeat clients."

This desire for long-lasting relationships extends to the Dutch sub-contractors and equipment suppliers with whom the yard works as well as a global network of after-sales support partners. Close to the open sea with no depth or height restrictions, Amsterdam Yacht Builders is easily accessible by water. Schiphol airport is just 20 minutes away and there are good hotels near the yard for crew to stay while work is underway.