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.

1933

First steps towards tunnel expertise

DEME 1933 - Waaslandtunnel
DEME 1933 - Waadlandtunnel
DEME 1933 - Waadlandtunnel

After more than two decades of studies, planning and international collaboration, the first tunnels under the Scheldt open in Antwerp. The Sint‑Anna and Waasland tunnels connect the left and right bank for the first time, improving access to the port and the city.

These milestone projects built on earlier studies and exchanges between Belgian contractors, including the DEME founders, and their French partners. They also marked DEME’s initial steps into the extremely complex construction sector of immersed tunnels – a highly skilled specialism which the company is now renowned for.

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.