Smelne Yachtcenter

Frisian launches and cruisers, built since 1968.

Smelne Yachtcenter began in 1968 when Jogchum Veenje started building rowing boats in a farm shed in Smalle Ee, near Drachten. The first eight-metre cruiser followed later that same year. In 1975, the company moved to De Steven in Drachten, where it grew into a water sports business offering new-builds, yacht brokerage, refits and a marina.

The company’s in-house construction focuses on steel motor yachts: the Smelne Vlet in versions such as the 1100, 1150 and 1295, the Smelne Kruiser, the Kotter, the Trawler 1600 and models such as the 1280S and 1500S. In addition, since 2020 Smelne has been building the Nidelv S line, having taken over the moulds, and distributes the Haines brand.

Facts & figures

• Founded in 1968 by Jogchum Veenje
• Based in Drachten, Friesland
• Builds the Smelne Vlet, Cruiser, Cutter and Trawler
• Has also been manufacturing the Nidelv S line since 2020
• Combines new-build with refit and marina facilities