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.

1940

Fleet confiscated by the occupying forces

DEME 1940 - Fleet confiscated

During the Second World War, the Belgian economy was gradually integrated into the German war effort. As the occupying forces tightened their grip on local industries, maritime infrastructure and equipment became prime targets. The German authorities began systematically confiscating dredging vessels across key European ports, seizing critical assets in Antwerp, Rotterdam, Gdynia, and Gdańsk. For the DEME founders, this forced requisition was another major setback. Once again, a significant portion of the dredging fleet was lost to a global conflict, echoing the painful destruction and losses the company had endured just thirty years earlier during the First World War.

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.