Akerboom Yacht Equipment Featured in How to Build It – Issue 10

Akerboom Yacht Equipment is featured in Issue 10 of How to Build It, the technical magazine by SuperYacht Times, with an in‑depth OEM article titled “Custom as Standard.” The article provides a detailed look at Akerboom’s engineering philosophy, history, and approach to delivering bespoke yacht equipment through a modular design strategy.

Written by Justin Ratcliffe, the feature explores how Akerboom has evolved into a leading specialist supplier within the superyacht industry, known for custom-built boarding equipment, platforms, cranes, watertight doors and integrated control systems. While every project is tailored to the specific yacht and owner, the article highlights how modularisation has become a key enabler of reliability, efficiency and consistency across Akerboom’s product range.

From bespoke craftsmanship to modular engineering

Since the appointment of Managing Director Mervyn van der Ploeg in 2015, Akerboom has systematically reduced design complexity by re‑engineering its equipment around standardised, industrial-grade components. This shift has led to greater efficiency in production, improved reliability, and shorter development cycles—without compromising the level of customisation expected in the superyacht sector.

The article illustrates how modular thinking has resulted in innovative solutions such as integrated side platforms, sliding stair access hatches, and concealed drive systems, all designed to enhance open deck space while maintaining watertight integrity and Class compliance.

 

In‑house control systems and lifecycle focus

A defining aspect of Akerboom’s approach is that all control systems and software are developed in‑house. Precise coordination between hydraulics, mechanics and electronics enables smooth, quiet and safe operation, even for highly complex systems such as helicopter lifts and large-scale boarding equipment. Recent developments also include advanced data logging, allowing operating cycles and fault conditions to be analysed remotely and contributing to more evidence‑based maintenance.

Serviceability is treated as a core design principle. Feedback from Akerboom’s global service technicians is actively fed back into new designs, ensuring that access, maintenance and long-term reliability are continuously improved.

A heritage rooted in craftsmanship

The article also reflects on Akerboom’s long history, which dates back to 1860. From its origins as a shipyard building wooden workboats to its current role as a specialist supplier for modern superyachts, the company has retained a strong connection between engineering, craftsmanship and innovation. Today, a modern superyacht may incorporate more than 20 individual Akerboom systems, underscoring the growing complexity of yacht design and the importance of integrated solutions.

Looking ahead

While Akerboom continues to work closely with Feadship, the article notes the company’s increasingly open strategy, supplying equipment to a growing number of international shipyards and refit projects. This evolution reflects Akerboom’s position as not only a manufacturer, but a systems integrator and long-term partner in the design and operation of modern superyachts.

The full How to Build It Issue 10, including the Akerboom OEM article on pages 68–78, is available via the link below:
https://lnkd.in/gSBzX4aW