Balk Shipyard completes major 31m Ursus rebuild
Balk Shipyard has delivered Ursus, a 30.4-metre “pocket explorer,” following an 18-month comprehensive rebuild completed at the yard in Urk, the Netherlands. The refit concluded with Ursus’s initial launch in January 2025, and she underwent sea trials on the IJsselmeer in February before being handed to her owner. The project began when Ursus arrived at Balk in 2022 and was executed in collaboration with Dutch studio Mulder Design. The rebuild expanded the yacht’s capabilities and onboard spaces while retaining her explorer character, marking a significant ReCraft commission for the yard. 
Six-metre hull extension, new bow, stern and superstructure
Structural work included a new bow and stern that extended the vessel’s overall length by six metres; Ursus was previously a sub‑24‑metre Acico build. The hull extension was paired with a longer superstructure to increase internal volume for the main saloon, sundeck and beach club, and the yacht was repainted in a metallic Lantau Gold finish to match a new Range Rover livery. 
Other exterior and accommodation changes comprised an upper deck extension, an al fresco kitchen, new wing stations and reinforced crane foundations, plus a two‑tiered beach club featuring an open upper level and waterside seating below. The revised layout also adds an extra crew cabin and improves crew areas, including an en suite in the captain’s cabin.
Diesel-electric propulsion, DP system and upgraded bridge
To accommodate the longer hull and optimise performance, Ursus received several technical upgrades. The yacht was fitted with a diesel‑electric propulsion system, Veth Azimut drives and a dynamic positioning (DP) system, and her bridge was comprehensively modernised to support the new systems and operational profile. 
Functional changes to the deckplan support her owner’s use profile: the original tender crane was moved to the extended sundeck, which now hosts a helm station, barbecue, Teppanyaki grill and space for two Jet Skis, while the tender garage was relocated from the forward area to the aft, freeing the foredeck for an al fresco cocktail area.
Ursus rebuild showcases Balk’s ReCraft expertise and future
Evan Kortmann, CEO of Balk Shipyard, described Ursus as “completely transformed from bow to stern,” noting that the project reflects the shipyard’s refined approach to complex ReCraft work and the results possible when an owner presents a clear brief and partners with a design studio such as Mulder Design. Ursus demonstrates Balk’s ability to integrate structural, accommodation and technical upgrades in a single programme. 
With Ursus delivered, Balk Shipyard is progressing on its next major project, the 44.3‑metre sailing yacht Yemaya, scheduled for delivery in 2026. The Ursus rebuild both consolidates Balk’s ReCraft credentials and signals the yard’s continued focus on technically sophisticated refits and new‑build deliveries.
This article has been sourced from press releases and cross-referenced with multiple trusted websites. Facts originally seen at Source along with other Sources. Images are credited to Guy Fleury. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, readers are encouraged to verify details independently.
