Henk de Vries retires as Director of Feadship
After nearly four decades of leadership within the superyacht world, Henk de Vries III will retire as Director of Feadship and CEO of Koninklijke De Vries Scheepsbouw as of May 1, 2025. He will continue to serve as an esteemed Ambassador for Feadship, ensuring Feadship's legacy endures as the next generation drives innovation and excellence in the Dutch-built yacht industry.
Henk de Vries joined the family business in 1987. Alongside his cousin Tom de Vries, he became director/shareholder in 1996. Together, they played a pivotal role in expanding De Vries into its current structure, comprising seven operating with over 1200 employees. Today, De Vries remains entirely family-owned and owns 50% of Feadship.
A passionate advocate for sustainable innovation, Henk de Vries co-founded the Water Revolution Foundation in 2018 and continues to serve as Chairman of the Board. This Foundation leads the yachting industry's efforts to minimize its ecological footprint through science-driven initiatives, with a mission to protect and preserve the world's oceans.
Roderick de Vries has assumed the role of CEO and Operational Director. He is joined by Bas Nederpelt as Chief Commercial Officer and Feadship Director, alongside a seasoned Executive Board whose combined experience spans over a century at the core of this family-led enterprise.
Reflecting on his retirement, Henk de Vries commented: “The four members of our new executive board bring with them over eighty years of De Vries experience. Their deep understanding of the company ensures it is in very capable hands." Moreover, Henk de Vries will remain closely involved in guiding the company’s strategic direction through his roles as Feadship Ambassador, non-executive board member of Koninklijke De Vries Scheepsbouw, and shareholder.
