New Ship Repair Facility Strengthens Curaçao’s Position as a Maritime Hub in the Caribbean

Willemstad, Curaçao – 2BAYS Curaçao N.V. and Naval Caribbean Dockyards B.V. (“NAVCARIB”) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly develop a new ship repair and maintenance facility at the Van Leer site in Emmastad. This initiative marks a major step in positioning Curaçao as a leading maritime hub in the Caribbean, while attracting new international clients and markets to the island.

The new facility will initially focus on hull, engine, and machinery work, with the potential to expand into offshore asset maintenance in later phases. Operations are expected to commence by late 2026, subject to permitting, financing, and construction progress.

Added Value for Curaçao

The 2BAYS–NAVCARIB partnership will strengthen Curaçao’s maritime ecosystem by targeting a segment currently served abroad. By attracting these activities to the island, the project will diversify Curaçao’s economy, create skilled employment, and revitalize existing industrial areas.

The initiative directly supports the Curaçao National Export Strategy, particularly within the Port & Maritime Services sector, and aligns with the government’s broader goals of economic diversification and sustainable growth.

Patrick Newton, Acting CEO of 2BAYS Curaçao:

“This partnership strengthens Curaçao’s position as a regional maritime hub. It aligns perfectly with our strategy to attract new business activity and enhance the long-term competitiveness of our port and industrial areas.”

José Benitez, Co-Founder of NAVCARIB:

“Our mission is to re-establish Curaçao as a trusted ship repair destination for small and medium vessels. Together with 2BAYS, we are building a facility that will attract international clients and create meaningful opportunities for local talent.”

About NAVCARIB

NAVCARIB is a joint venture in formation by local entrepreneurs Jimmy Meyboom, José Benitez, and Willem van Delden, who combine their extensive experience in heavy lift, special transport, and ship repair to reposition Curaçao as a maritime cluster for small and medium-sized vessels in the Caribbean. In doing so, NAVCARIB addresses a market segment with significant growth potential for the island.

About 2BAYS Curaçao

The mission of 2BAYS Curaçao (2BAYS) is to contribute to the sustainable economic prosperity of Curaçao by serving as a driving force behind the industrial energy transition and the development of modern, sustainable value chains. In collaboration with key partners in the sustainable industry, 2BAYS gradually adapts its properties to create long-term economic activities. Additionally, 2BAYS is committed to education and encouraging the community to move toward a sustainable and green industrial future. The core responsibilities as a landlord include developing the available properties, fostering new business activities, and managing their assets effectively.

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