Over mij
Who is Jelmer Koopman and why
Koopman Maritiem?
Koopman Maritiem is a marine survey firm where Jelmer Koopman, as a marine surveyor, offers his independent and objective expertise to clients interested in purchasing new and/or used vessels.
From a young age, Jelmer Koopman has been passionate about everything to do with ships and water sports, a love that has been passed down from generation to generation. His great-grandfather sailed as captain on his own motor vessel, the Batavier, a coastal vessel.
The Batavier as built (1940)
The Batavian at Sea
Mercy Ships
Jelmer Koopman began his maritime career in 2010. After completing several work placements, including one at a naval architecture firm, he graduated from Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding (DSNS), part of Damen Shipyard, with a degree in Industrial Design (full-time), specialising in lightweight ship interiors. He then went on to build workboats (ambulance and search & rescue boats) at Dutch Health.
Jelmer also sailed full-time as a volunteer for Mercy Ships aboard the M/V Africa Mercy, a hospital ship, where he worked alongside the Captain and Chief Engineer. During his time on board abroad, which he also regards as his social service, he worked with the Superintendent, amongst others, and was involved in both the preparation and execution of two dry-docks in Durban, South Africa.
Back in the Netherlands, Jelmer continued his career with a shipping company, Stolt Tankers, where he also completed his second degree (part-time) in Industrial Engineering and Management. Since 2022, he has been working in yacht building and has been employed at renowned shipyards such as Royal Huisman, known for its exclusive custom sailing and motor yachts, and Mulder Shipyard (semi-custom). He eventually decided to put his expertise to use independently as a freelance ship and yacht expert.
Koopman Maritiem was founded out of a desire to use Jelmer Koopman’s background and experience – as a maritime expert – to provide this expertise to clients who need it when they wish to realise their dreams. This may involve embarking on a new-build project or acquiring an existing second-hand vessel. In both cases, there is a need to handle matters expertly and thoroughly, whether it concerns your requirements and wishes, or the selection of a shipyard and suppliers.
In the case of a new-build vessel, your dream is being built from scratch. With an existing or second-hand vessel, you are dependent on the condition and status of what is available on the market and the choices made by the previous owner. In any case, every project presents a challenge that requires the necessary expertise, attention and time. Experience has shown that not every owner can afford to focus their full attention on realising their dream, and therefore surrounds themselves with people who possess specific expertise.
