The project saw the Dutch refit specialist work closely with the yacht's original builders to complete a program of structural repairs, cosmetic updates, and technical maintenance designed to preserve the vessel while preparing her for continued service.
The Legacy of Belle de Jour
Delivered in 2013, Belle de Jour remains the flagship yacht built by Dutch shipyard Flevo Jachtbouw, formerly known as FlevoShip Holland. Measuring just over 19m, the motor yacht was designed inside and out by the late Dutch naval architect and designer Pieter Beeldsnijder, whose career spanned thousands of vessels and several high-profile commissions.
More than a decade after her delivery, Belle de Jour continues to stand apart through her traditional Dutch styling. Long exterior lines, high freeboard, enclosed bulwarks, and a purposeful profile give the yacht a substantial presence on the water, while her 140 gross ton interior volume has been arranged to create the feel of a significantly larger vessel.
Four Months of Upgrades and Maintenance
The refit program focused on ensuring the boat is fully prepared for another season on the water. Work carried out at Balk Shipyard included localized hull repairs, rudder refurbishment, and a complete antifouling treatment. The yacht also received a fresh pastel blue finish below the waterline, while the mast deck was refinished as part of a broader cosmetic refresh.
Alongside the visible upgrades, Balk Shipyard conducted inspections and maintenance across Belle de Jour's technical and electrical systems to ensure continued reliability and performance. The result is a yacht that retains her original character while benefiting from a thorough program of maintenance and renewal.
Preserving the Original Vision
A notable aspect of the project was the collaboration between Balk Shipyard and Belle de Jour's original builders. According to the yard, the partnership helped ensure that the work remained consistent with the yacht's original design philosophy and construction standards.
Balk Shipyard has developed a strong reputation in recent years for refit and ReCraft projects, focusing on extending the operational life of existing yachts through carefully managed refurbishment programs.
Commenting on the relaunch, Balk Shipyard CEO Evan Kortmann said: "Every vessel has a story worth preserving. Our primary role as a refit and ReCraft specialist is to ensure vessels are primed for their next chapter, while honouring those that came before. Belle de Jour represents precisely the Dutch excellence we're committed to stewarding."
Another Major Project Completed
The relaunch of Belle de Jour follows another significant project completed by the yard this year. In recent weeks, Balk Shipyard also returned the 45m Royal Hakvoort motor yacht Awatea to the water after an extensive seven-month refit program.
Awatea is listed for sale on YachtBuyer and is currently asking $23,500,000.
Together, the projects highlight continued demand for large-scale yacht refits, with owners increasingly investing in maintenance, modernization, and lifecycle upgrades rather than pursuing full replacement builds.
With her refit now complete, Belle de Jour is expected to be redelivered shortly and will soon return to cruising for the summer season.
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