On our Open Dag visitors had the opportunity to explore more than 20 custom-built yachts, witness expert craftsmanship up close, and get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at yachts under construction and exciting refits.
Tom Waes Shares His Plans
Tom Waes’ sailing yacht, the Bestevaer 53 S/Y Tethys, is nearing completion. During his presentation, Tom enthusiastically shared his plans to explore Antarctica with his aluminum yacht. He aims to follow the route of his fellow countryman Adrien de Gerlache, the expedition leader who set sail for Antarctica with his ship Belgica in 1897. As a tribute to this pioneer, Tom will begin his journey, just as they did back then, from Antwerp.
Innovation in Sustainability
At the yard, great attention is given to sustainability, both in material choices and working methods. During a presentation by Jelle Engel, Sustainability Coordinator at KM Yachtbuilders, visitors learned how the yard is innovating in this area. A prime example is the Bestevaer 36 S/Y, which last year received the title European Yacht of the Year 2024 in the Special Mentioning Sustainability category.
Working at KM Yachtbuilders
In addition to the impressive yachts, visitors also got a glimpse of the career opportunities at KM Yachtbuilders. In collaboration with Firda, the regional training institute, the yard offers special work-and-learn programs for future craftspeople.
Suppliers
There were also 25 nautical and lifestyle suppliers present with their own stands. Visitors were able to ask specific questions and gain more insight into all aspects of yacht building, from engines and sails to bed linen and antifouling.
The following yachts where present
Under Construction
- Bestevaer 53 Tethys (Tom Waes)
- Bestevaer 53 Sur
- Stadtship 56 Flow (prev. Otte)
- OCD60 Frenz
- Bill Tripp 71ft Carbon S/Y (in the paintshed)
Refits
- Bestevaer 76 La Rahema
- Perry 60
- Beneteau 45
- Ovni 385
- Huisman 37
Completed – in the water or on the quay:
- Bestevaer 36 BV3
- Bestevaer 53 MY #3
- Bestevaer 56 Panta Rhei (viewable from the outside only, subject to change)
- Dykstra 55 Greyhound
- Stadtship 47 Lot
- Stadtship 56 Oester
- Koopmans 36 Blikvis
Yachts for Sale:
- Bestevaer 36 BV3
broker: Yachtfull International - Bestevaer 53 MY #3
broker: Elburg Yachting - Stadtship 70 Red Rooster
broker: CB Selections - Garcia 60 Fiore
broker: Yachtfull International
Watch the Movie from our Open Day.
KMY Open Day 2025 – Highlights:
Tom Waes
A special highlight of the Open Day is the presence of Tom Waes, the well-known Belgian actor, television personality, and proud owner of the Bestevaer 53 Tethys. Last year, viewers watched live as he welded the first parts of his hull himself and gave an impressive presentation about his sailing plans. This year, he returns with another presentation about his Bestevaer 53 Tethys, currently under construction at the yard. Visitors will get an up-close look at the yacht and see how it is taking shape.
Yachts Under Construction and Refit Projects – 2025
During the KM Yachtbuilders Open Day, visitors will have the chance to admire some of the yard’s most remarkable ongoing projects. The Bill Tripp 71ft carbon sailing yacht, previously under construction by Paul Dijkstra Composites, has just arrived at KM Yachtbuilders. We’re now taking over the outfitting and interior completion of this stunning performance cruiser.
Designed for adventurous sailors, this innovation is sure to turn heads during our Open Day. Don’t miss your chance to see it up close! There’s also the OCD60 Frenz, set for delivery this summer and already drawing a great deal of interest. And for the first time in many years, a new Stadtship 56 is under construction—the Flow (prev. Otto).
Bestevaer Yachts
In addition to these projects, visitors can also see the Bestevaer 53 Tethys and Bestevaer 53 Sur under construction at the yard. The Bestevaer series, designed by Dykstra Naval Architects, remains a symbol of quality, adventure, and craftsmanship. These yachts are built to handle the most demanding conditions while delivering exceptional performance.
Refits
KM Yachtbuilders is also undertaking a range of impressive refit projects, including the Bestevaer 76 La Rahema, the Perry 60, and an Ovni 385. Each of these yachts is being carefully revitalised with the same level of precision and craftsmanship that defines the yard’s new builds. Whether it’s upgrading systems, renewing interiors, or restoring classic lines, these refits highlight KM Yachtbuilders’ ability to breathe new life into well-travelled yachts—transforming them into vessels ready for many more miles at sea.
KM Market: Partners & Suppliers
Over 20 trusted partners from the maritime world will be sharing their knowledge and showcasing their products. From sailmakers and rigging specialists to marine tech experts and artisans, it’s a great chance to connect, learn, and get inspired by the craft behind our yachts.
Nautic
ASA Boot Electro
Combi Noord
CircleFoam
EcoDeck
Finsulate
Harken / On Deck
KB Alufrees
Lamers System Care
Lankhorst-Taselaar
PD Composites
Seldén Mid Europe
Uk De Vries sails / Masten en zo..!
Yanmar Marine International
Yachtfull International
Lifestyle
Aukje de Haan Schilderijen
Deining Magazine
Firda Sneek, afd. Maritieme Techniek
Flagship Interiors
Hollandia Uitgeverij
LotteOpZee
MKKM.frl
Pantaenius GmbH
Vyva Fabrics
Media:
March 2025
Zeiltrends (NL)
April 2025
HLN (BE/NL)
GvA (BE)
May 2025
Watersport TV (NL)
Zeiltrends (NL)