Posted on July 7, 2026
Some projects begin with a business plan. This one began with a casual conversation over coffee.
About two years ago, I was speaking with the Van Berchum family about their ambition to take the next step and acquire a larger dredger. I happened to mention that I knew of a vessel that was for sale.
That vessel was the Moustakbal, lying in a port in Morocco.
Where most people saw little more than rust, years of neglect and a significant amount of work ahead, the Van Berchum family saw something entirely different: a well-built vessel with real potential. That takes vision… and perhaps a little entrepreneurial courage.
With the support of DE Klop, extensive technical preparation and many rounds of negotiations, the acquisition was successfully completed. The vessel was then prepared for towage to the Netherlands. But in reality, the greatest challenge only began once she arrived.
Where others might have walked away, Filia Dredging chose to persevere. Through exceptional craftsmanship, creativity and remarkable determination, the vessel was rebuilt step by step.
And the result speaks for itself.
The Moustakbal has not only been given a second life, but also a new name: BIESBOSCH.
Perhaps the most memorable moment came when Willem Sr. reflected on the project:
“If I had known beforehand how much work it would take, I would never have started. Fortunately, I didn’t.”
Anyone who has ever completed an ambitious project will understand that sentiment. Outstanding achievements do not happen by chance; they require vision, perseverance and craftsmanship. The Van Berchum family and the entire Filia Dredging team have demonstrated what can be accomplished when you remain committed to your goal, even when the challenges seem overwhelming.
And perhaps this project represents one of the finest examples of sustainability.
A vessel that many considered nothing more than scrap steel will now continue operating for many years to come. No new hull, no thousands of tonnes of newly produced steel—simply the restoration and reuse of an existing asset. Circularity in its purest form.
We are proud that DE Klop has been able to contribute to this remarkable journey.
My sincere compliments go to the Van Berchum family, the entire Filia Dredging team, and all suppliers and subcontractors who helped make this project a success.
Congratulations, Filia, on the successful completion of the BIESBOSCH. We wish you many years of safe operations and successful projects with your newest addition to the fleet.
Sometimes sustainability does not begin with building something new, but with the vision, courage and craftsmanship to give something existing a second life.
