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.

1911

Dredging and port infrastructure works in Le Havre

DEME 1911 - Le Havre
DEME 1911 - Le Havre
DEME 1911 - Le Havre

By 1911, the founders were increasingly involved in harbor dredging and improvement works in the French port of Le Havre. They had already been active in the port since 1905, initially working as subcontractors for French companies.

In the years leading up to the First World War, the scale and number of works increased. What began as an early presence by the founders evolved into a longterm involvement in dredging and port infrastructure works, laying the foundations for a relationship with Le Havre that would span generations.

More than a century later, that story continues. Today, DEME is once again working in the port of Le Havre on the La Chatière project, creating a direct connection between Port 2000 and the Seine river network and encouraging a shift towards more sustainable waterway transport.

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.