Hans Kortlevers to revive legendary Jongert Yachts
“This is not just an acquisition. It is a statement of intent,” says Hans Kortlevers, the Dutch investor behind LMEY Investments AG, which has acquired Jongert Yachts, the iconic Dutch builder of luxury sailing and motor yachts.
Jongert is best known for semi‑custom and custom sailing and motor yachts, particularly in steel and aluminium. The company has a long heritage in high‑end yacht construction and has built over 300 vessels since it was founded.
Kortlevers announced his decision via social media whereupon online commentary suggests that while Jongert Yachts used to be the high end of ‘super’- yachting, the brand just – sort of – slipped away.
Another says that Jonget built superb yachts and hopes that the DNA is still alive in the rebirth.
Kortlevers says there’s a “bold new vision for the brand”.
Flagship projects: 55m superyacht and 500GT motor catamaran
That vision is to be defined by two flagship projects.
The first is a 55 metre |500 GT flagship yacht which – as the brand’s flagship – will aim to represent the pinnacle of elegance, performance, and comfort. It’s designed to embody Jongert’s heritage of craftsmanship while introducing a contemporary design language, says Kortlevers.
Then there’s a 500 GT motor catamaran which will redefine space, efficiency, and long-range capability. The volume, stability, and layout possibilities are expected to signal a new direction for owners.
“Together, these projects reflect our commitment to pushing boundaries while respecting the values that have defined Jongert for decades. Our ambition is clear: to build future-ready superyachts that combine intelligent engineering, timeless design, and a deep connection to the sea.”
Jongert’s heritage: from 1953 to today
The company was founded in 1953 by Jan Jongert Sr. in Opperdoes, the Netherlands and began building small motorboats, quickly moving into larger luxury motor yachts by 1960. Through the early 1960s, Jongert developed its first sailing classes — the Zwalkers and Trewes — in partnership with Van der Meer and the naval architect Willem de Vries Lentsch, which helped establish its international reputation. Its website offers a detailed look at the vessels it’s built.
In 2009 the original family ownership ended when Jongert was acquired by the VEKA Group following financial difficulties.
Later, the yard was taken over by Acico Yachts, which integrated Jongert into its facilities at Wieringerwerf while keeping the Jongert brand name alive. Jongert remains active in yacht building and refit work, although projects and production levels have varied through recent economic cycles.
Kortlevers’ track record in luxury investments and yachts
Hans Kortlevers, a Dutch businessman and investor, is best known as the founder of LMEY Investments AG — a company that invests in hotel and leisure properties across multiple countries. Under his leadership it’s understood that LMEY has grown to own 20+ hotels in around 11 countries, signalling a broad international footprint in hospitality.
In 2020, LMEY expanded its portfolio with the acquisition of Westfort Capital, a firm known for revitalising underperforming hotels, supporting Kortlevers’ strategy of repositioning assets in the luxury hospitality space.
It’s believed that Kortlevers owns the Lürssen‑built motor yacht Envy (originally Xenia), although – according to superyacht media – it was listed for sale in 2025.
With two flagship projects already in motion, Hans Kortlevers aims to blend Jongert’s decades of craftsmanship with modern design, performance, and efficiency. The acquisition reflects a vision for future-ready superyachts that respect tradition while exploring new directions in luxury, space, and long-range capabilities — marking a potential renaissance for a brand that has shaped the world of high-end yachting for nearly seven decades.
