Amsterdam Shipyard G. de Vries Lentsch represents a venerable name in Dutch yacht building and design, a heritage spanning over a century. From its origins in traditional wooden boat construction to its pioneering ventures into fiberglass, the company has left an indelible mark on the global marine industry, known for its commitment to quality and innovative design.
The De Vries Lentsch family's deep roots in shipbuilding trace back to 1878, when the initial De Vries Lentsch enterprise began by constructing wooden rowing boats for the bustling port of Amsterdam. A significant pivot occurred in 1917 when Gerard de Vries Lentsch Jr. established his own distinct entity, the "Amsterdamsche Scheepwerf G. de Vries Lentsch Jr." This new shipyard, located at Grasweg in Amsterdam, quickly gained renown for its robust construction. While early outputs included a substantial number of lifeboats, demonstrating their expertise in sturdy and reliable craft, the shipyard soon diversified, producing over 2800 vessels in its active shipbuilding years.
History and Evolution
The mid-20th century marked a pivotal period for Amsterdam Shipyard G. de Vries Lentsch. Recognizing the burgeoning potential of new materials, Gerard de Vries Lentsch Jr. initiated a dedicated division in 1959 specifically for the construction of fiberglass yachts. This foresight positioned the shipyard at the forefront of modern yacht building techniques. The following year, in 1960, the company's highly influential design department formally spun off, forming "De Vries Lentsch Yacht Designers & Naval Architects." This specialized design firm continued the legacy of innovation, going on to design over a thousand yachts, solidifying the De Vries Lentsch name in naval architecture even as the shipbuilding landscape evolved.
Design Philosophy and Identity
De Vries Lentsch established a formidable reputation within the marine world, primarily known for its comprehensive exterior design and naval architecture services. The brand is synonymous with classic elegance, robust construction, and seaworthy designs, catering to a range of vessels from comfortable family cruisers to luxurious bluewater yachts and prestigious motor yachts.
The company's commitment to excellence led to collaborations with some of the most respected naval architects of their time. For instance, the iconic SWIFTSURE 33 sailing yacht was a product of their partnership with renowned American designer Philip Rhodes. Similarly, the popular TRIPP LENTSCH models, including the Tripp Lentsch 29, were the result of a collaboration with the talented Bill Tripp. Beyond these collaborations, De Vries Lentsch's in-house design team also contributed significantly to their portfolio, showcasing a versatile design philosophy capable of producing both timeless sailing yachts and stately motor yachts.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Throughout its history, Amsterdam Shipyard G. de Vries Lentsch, and its design offshoot, introduced numerous significant vessels that have become cherished by owners worldwide. Among the notable fiberglass yachts from their 1959 division were the SWIFTSURE 33, MERIDIAN, and the various TRIPP LENTSCH models. The Swiftsure 33, a 10.1-meter monohull, was particularly impactful, built in collaboration with Seafarer Yachts for import to the US. The Tripp Lentsch 29, a polyester classic, became known for its shallow draft, making it suitable for a variety of cruising grounds.
Beyond production models, De Vries Lentsch also garnered acclaim for custom projects and larger vessels. The 42.06-meter motor yacht Istros, delivered in 1954, stands as an award-winning classic whose naval architecture and exterior design were penned by De Vries Lentsch. Another testament to their distinguished craftsmanship is the Royal yacht Piet Hein, built in 1937, which continues to serve the Dutch royal family, highlighting the enduring quality of their builds. The shipyard's legacy extends to vessels spanning a wide timeframe, with yachts designed and built by De Vries Lentsch ranging from 1892 to 2006 still found on the market, appealing to those who appreciate their classical lines and robust construction.
The Builder Today
While the shipbuilding operations of "Amsterdam Shipyard G. de Vries Lentsch" as a yard for new builds may have evolved or ceased over time, the De Vries Lentsch name profoundly endures through its highly respected yacht design and naval architecture firm, "De Vries Lentsch Yacht Designers & Naval Architects." This entity continues to operate, providing expert design services for both motor and sailing yachts. The modern incarnation of De Vries Lentsch design appeals to clients seeking custom or semi-custom yachts that embody timeless aesthetics, sound engineering, and a proven maritime heritage. The long-standing presence of De Vries Lentsch yachts on the brokerage market and a continued interest in their classic designs speak to a strong community of owners who value the brand's reputation for quality and enduring appeal.
