At Gardec, skilled craftsmen work on ships and robust metal structures. From ship repairs in our own dry dock and ports across Europe to offshore constructions: we build, maintain, and repair with a strong focus on quality and reliability. Gardec is the largest shipyard on the Belgian coast, based in Zeebrugge. What started as a diesel service company has grown into a leading provider of ship repair, maintenance, and metal fabrication for both offshore and onshore industries.
With a skilled team of specialists, Gardec offers a comprehensive range of services:
– Repair and refit of commercial and industrial vessels
– Mechanical and electrical maintenance
– Dry-docking of ships
– Welding (steel, stainless steel, and aluminium)
– CNC machining and metalworking
– Fabrication and assembly of offshore and onshore structures
– Crane rental services
The future ahead with a new crew!
News
A new chapter is beginning at Gardec. As of 1 December 2025, Hugo D’Hoedt will officially pass the steering wheel to the next generation. The trusted CEO duo, Hugo and Dieter D’hoedt, will make way for a new tandem: Dieter D’hoedt as CEO and Filip Malefason as Managing Director.
Hugo D’hoedt will remain involved from the sidelines as member of the Board of Directors. He will help oversee the continuity, growth and further development of the companies Gardec SDS, Gardec VJ and Werkhuizen Decloedt. In addition, he will continue in his role as CEO of the subsidiary ‘Brusselle Winches & Steering gear’.
Dieter D’hoedt, CEO: “In recent years, I have had the opportunity to form a tandem with my father and set the course for our family company. I can confidently say that Gardec is well-equipped for the future. With Filip on board, we have an experienced leader who will help set our course for the years ahead. Together, we will continue building the Gardec story, with the same craftsmanship, the same passion and the same ambition to keep growing.”
Filip Malefason brings many years of experience from the automotive sector, including as Managing Director of VDL & Coach Belgium and Luxembourg. There, he led the transition from diesel to electric busses and was involved in the recent acquisition of Van Hool’s coach activities.
Filip Malefason, Managing Director: “The world of ship repairs is new to me, but I recognize and share its underlying principles: it is people, technology and innovation that make the difference. For 30 years, Gardec has stood for craftsmanship, service and entrepreneurship. These are values in which I fully recognize myself, and to which I look forward to contribute, drawing on my experience to strengthen them even further.”
With the future ahead, the new management team aims to continue building a solid and technologically advanced organisation. Taking on new challenges at our existing facilities and at the new Kiwiweg site will keep Gardec at the forefront of the international maritime landscape.
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The strength of Gardec lies in its people. Generations of craftsmen have honed their skills here, from welders and conventional turners to ship designers. Their expertise and dedication form the backbone of every project we complete with precision and care.
Interested in joining our maritime team? Explore our vacancies on the careers page and perhaps we’ll soon welcome you as our new colleague!
