Dutch submersible builder U-Boat Worx has confirmed the name of its new CEO, Wilbert Versteeg, as the firm introduces a new organisational structure comprising three core divisions: UBW Exploration, UBW Components and UBW Naval, to support its expansion into a wider range of markets.
New U-Boat Worx structure
The new UBW Exploration division will remain focused on the design and manufacture of manned submersibles, including the Cruise Sub series (7–11 passengers), the smaller Nemo, Super Yacht Sub, and the high-speed Super Sub. The division has also introduced a wet-lease programme, which allows customers to charter submersibles with crew and technical support for flexible short- or long-term operations.
UBW Components will supply pressure-tolerant batteries, lighting systems, thrusters and control electronics developed for the company’s submersibles to third-party OEMs and subsea operators.
UBW Naval is now responsible for submersible systems developed for use in surveillance, infrastructure protection and strategic mobility. This includes both manned and unmanned platforms for naval reconnaissance, as well as compact submersibles suited for search and rescue in disaster response scenarios.
New CEO at U-Boat Worx
Wilbert Versteeg has been appointed chief executive officer, replacing Bart van Nunen, who held the role from March 2024 until January 2025. Versteeg took over as CEO in January 2025, according to LinkedIn, but the firm only made the announcement public this week. MIN has reached out for further details on the transition and is awaiting a response.
Versteeg (pictured left) has over three decades of experience in the maritime sector. “This new structure allows each division to act with clarity, autonomy and purpose,” he says. “My mission is to make U-Boat Worx the most accessible, innovative, and operationally reliable submersible company in the world — whether serving a private client or a government programme. We will lead with excellence, and we will deliver with precision.”
The company states it also intends to expand its wet lease activities, develop naval capabilities and strengthen its position as a vertically integrated builder of manned and unmanned submersibles.
“We’ve always pushed the limits of what’s possible beneath the surface,” says Roy Heijdra, marketing director at U-Boat Worx. “By introducing these three divisions, we can better tell our story and directly support the goals of every customer group, whether you’re a yacht owner, cruise operator, subsea engineer or naval operator.”
The firm says its restructuring reflects increasing demand for safe, efficient and certified subsea platforms from tourism, research, infrastructure and defence organisations.
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