As a leading voice in yachting journalism, it's a pleasure to delve into the rich history and enduring legacy of Jachtwerf Gebr. De Kloet BV, a name synonymous with quality yacht building in the Netherlands. Nestled in Kortenhoef, near Hilversum, this esteemed yard has crafted a reputation for producing robust and beloved GRP (Glass Reinforced Polyester) yachts for over six decades.
Jachtwerf Gebr. De Kloet BV commenced its journey in the marine industry in 1959. From its inception, the shipyard, located in the scenic village of Kortenhoef, swiftly established itself as a significant player in Dutch yacht building. Operating as a family concern, the yard embraced the then-emerging material of fiberglass (GRP) from the outset, focusing on the construction of polyester sailing yachts. While the specific first model built isn't widely detailed, their early adoption of GRP laid the groundwork for a future marked by durable and well-regarded vessels.
History and Evolution
Over the decades, Jachtwerf Gebr. De Kloet BV has consistently maintained its esteemed position within the Dutch yacht-building industry. The company's history is characterized by a steady commitment to quality and craftsmanship, which has seen it become widely recognized for the production of several well-known yacht lines, including the Fellowships, Midgets, Sailhorse, and Efsix. Beyond new construction, the shipyard has always provided comprehensive services, including repairs and upkeep, ensuring the longevity of its vessels and fostering strong relationships with its clientele. An interesting facet of their operation is the in-house stainless steel construction and polishing division, highlighting a dedication to integrating key components and maintaining high standards of finish.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Jachtwerf Gebr. De Kloet's reputation in the sailing world is built on a foundation of reliability and practical design. The yard is particularly renowned for producing yachts that blend seaworthiness with comfortable sailing characteristics.
Among their notable ranges:
- Fellowship: These yachts are celebrated for their seaworthiness, comfortable cruising capabilities, and generous interior volume, offering ample depth, space, and overall comfort for extended voyages. The Fellowship 28, a popular model, was designed by T. de Kloet, suggesting a strong family involvement in the early design aspects.
- Midget: Known for their distinctive double-ended hull form, Midget yachts are highly regarded for their robust construction and stable, comfortable performance at sea.
- Efsix: This model stands out as a versatile, medium-sized open family sailboat designed by the acclaimed naval architect E.G. van de Stadt. The Efsix is praised for being both fast and sporty, making it suitable for competitive racing, yet equally adept as a comfortable recreational boat. Its unique design features a lifting keel, which significantly enhances its trailerability, and a high righting moment, contributing to its stability.
- Sailhorse: Introduced to European waters around 1970, the Sailhorse is a modern, 6-meter trailerable open polyester sailboat that caters to both recreational and competitive sailors. Uniquely, the shipyard has offered the option to purchase bare hulls, allowing owners greater customization.
The collaboration with respected naval architects like E.G. van de Stadt for the Efsix underscores the shipyard's commitment to well-engineered and performance-oriented designs.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The enduring success of Jachtwerf Gebr. De Kloet BV is best exemplified by its lineup of iconic models that have graced waterways for decades:
- Fellowship: The Fellowship series, including popular models like the Fellowship 27, 28, and 33, represent the yard's prowess in creating family-friendly cruisers known for their space and seaworthiness.
- Midget: The Midget 26 and Midget 31 are celebrated examples of compact yet capable cruisers, appreciated for their robust build and comfortable handling, particularly known for their classic double-ended shape.
- Sailhorse: As a versatile open dinghy, the Sailhorse has garnered a loyal following, serving as an excellent platform for both spirited sailing and leisurely outings.
- Efsix: The Efsix continues to be a popular choice for those seeking a sporty keelboat that is both competitive on the racecourse and practical for family cruising, especially due to its easy transportability.
In addition to these renowned lines, Jachtwerf Gebr. De Kloet also constructs the "Wijdemeren sloep" (sloop) on a custom-order basis, demonstrating their continued ability to produce bespoke vessels tailored to client specifications.
The Builder Today
Jachtwerf Gebr. De Kloet BV remains an active and respected entity in the Dutch marine industry. The shipyard continues its operations from its long-standing location at Moleneind 7a, 1241 NE Kortenhoef. Today, the yard focuses its new construction efforts primarily on custom orders for the Midget, Efsix, and Wijdemeren models, emphasizing a bespoke approach to yacht building. This allows them to cater to discerning buyers who value personalized craftsmanship and the proven designs that De Kloet is known for. The ownership experience typically involves a close relationship with the yard, benefiting from their extensive expertise in both new builds and comprehensive maintenance and repair services. The ongoing demand for their classic designs and their capability in specialized stainless steel work ensures Jachtwerf Gebr. De Kloet BV continues to be a trusted name for discerning sailors.
