Discover 150 years of DEME!

In 2026, DEME celebrates 150 years of marine and environmental engineering. From our early roots in 1876, we have grown from our origins in dredging and marine works into a leading, diversified group - shaped by expertise, innovation, resilience and a constant drive to push boundaries. 

Throughout this anniversary year, we’ll take you on a journey through our history, sharing stories and moments that show how challenges were approached, solutions were developed and ambitions kept moving forward. Across our channels and on this dedicated anniversary website, you can discover the people, projects and breakthroughs that made DEME what it is today. This website will be updated weekly with new stories. Throughout the year, we will use #DEME150 to share and connect these stories. 

As we reflect on 150 years, we continue to look ahead with the same spirit that defines us: We Care. We Dare. We Deliver.

1906

Building the Noorder Docks in Antwerp

DEME 1906 - Building the Noorder Docks in Antwerp
DEME 1906 - Noorderdokken Antwerp

By the early 1900s, Antwerp was preparing for a bold northward expansion of its port. After the tender was awarded in 1903 to a consortium, including Hendrik Willem Ackermans, construction began on a vast new dock area: 28 hectares of water surface, 2.6 kilometers of new quays and 70 hectares of surrounding industrial land. The works were anything but simple: logistical obstacles and heavy maritime traffic repeatedly slowed progress.

Yet by midJune 1906, the moment arrived: the new Noorder Docks were flooded for the first time, marking their official inauguration as part of the Port of Antwerp. Since then, we’ve been instrumental in countless expansions across the Port of Antwerp. Our connection to the city and the Scheldt is woven into our DNA.

Disclaimer

With 150 years of history, there are countless moments to tell. In this anniversary year, we share a non-exhaustive selection of stories that illustrate how DEME became the company it is today. These stories are drawn from a variety of historical sources, including books by authors such as Dirk Podevijn and Mon Vanderosteyne, company publications and the input of colleagues across the organization. As this website looks back on 150 years of heritage, it features archival material from different eras. Safety standards and working practices have evolved significantly over time and should be understood in their historical context.