Akerboom Archive Anecdotes

Akerboom Archive Anecdotes is a journey into more than 165 years of Dutch shipbuilding heritage. Hosted by fourth-generation family members Henk and Aad Akerboom, the podcast brings to life forgotten stories, hidden treasures, and remarkable anecdotes from the rich archives of Akerboom Yacht Equipment.

Founded in 1860, Akerboom has grown from a small shipyard in Boskoop to a world-renowned specialist in superyacht equipment, engineering, and craftsmanship. Today, history remains a key driver of innovation and identity. In 2025, Akerboom reopened the monumental Gemeente School at Hoge Morsweg in Leiden. This historic building—once a primary school, now transformed into a canteen, training space, and rotating archive exhibition—serves as a bridge between past and present.

Each episode uncovers the stories behind the items on display: the yachts, the tools, the documents, and the family memories that shaped Akerboom’s enduring legacy.

Episode 1
Opening the archive: what does it feel like to revisit generations of history, and why is heritage so important to Akerboom?

Episode 2
The monumental Gemeente School: memories and stories of the building where past generations studied, now restored as part of Akerboom’s future.

Episode 3
The origins of Akerboom: from 1860 in Boskoop to the move to Leiden, including the first yachts and the iconic Lemsteraak.

Episode 4
The first exhibition: yachts built for Rotterdam notables and international clients, the unique Lemsteraken, historic tools, and the very first Akerboom advertisement in Waterkampioen.