Monnickendam, the home of Hakvoort Shipyard, owes its name to the monks who built a dam there back in the 12th century. Granted city rights in 1355 and a prominent port in the 1600s, winding cobblestone streets keep the maritime memories alive.

Entrepreneurs such as Albert Klzn Hakvoort have played their role too. Some 85 years ago, he purchased a shipyard that had launched its first vessel way back in 1780. Albert then went on to lay down the firm foundations of a thriving business that would eventually put the name of Monnickendam back on the world maritime map.

Hakvoort Shipyard starting out building fishing boats, moving into the yacht building niche as the demand for pleasure sailing grew. The yard has remained in family hands throughout the decades, passing down from father to son several times. Moreover, entire families of craftsmen have also worked at Hakvoort for generations, helping create an atmosphere of personal involvement in company and community alike.

The inherent quality of yachts such as Lady Duvera and Lady Marina have helped make Hakvoort one of the world’s leading yards. For many satisfied owners, however, the personal approach they encountered when building their yacht in tiny Monnickendam also remains an abiding memory.