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New IJsselmeer cutter for the Foppen family ready to begin eel fishing
With the commissioning of the HK-78 Heidi, the Foppen family of Harderwijk has expanded its fleet to seven vessels: three IJsselmeer cutters and four shrimp trawlers. Built specifically for eel fishing, the new vessel was officially handed over during a festive event on board the passenger ship Zuiderzee in Urk. The Heidi was designed by Peter Jeninga (styling) and Naval Consultant Herman Jansen (naval architecture), and constructed by VCU/TCD, with interior finishing by De Flux.
Design, construction and collaboration
The HK-78 Heidi measures 19.95 metres in length, 5.40 metres in beam, and has a draft of 1.30 metres. The hull was built by VCU/TCD and later transferred to De Flux for completion. The project was overseen from start to finish by Jan Cees Kater of Werft Shipbuilding, ensuring a smooth process and a result that meets the owner's expectations. Despite ongoing regulatory challenges and limitations in the IJsselmeer fishery, the Foppen family remains determined to continue their role in sustainable inland fishing, with the Heidi playing a key part in that future.
Technical outfitting and finishing
The cutter is powered by a 400 hp Volvo Penta main engine, supplied by Haisma Scheepsmotoren, driving a six-bladed Multipulsion propeller from Promarine. The electrical systems were installed by DTM Techniek, hydraulics by Fa. Meijer, and electronics by Narwal. Paintwork and preservation were carried out by Straalbedrijf Flevoland, while De Flux completed the interior outfitting, which includes accommodation for six people across three twin cabins — allowing the vessel to double as a family leisure boat if desired.
Fishing grounds and future vision
The HK-78 is designed for operation on the IJsselmeer, the Markermeer, and the adjacent Randmeren. With the eel fishing season reopening on 1 May, the vessel will begin operating near the southwest side of the dyke between Lelystad and Enkhuizen. Jan Foppen and his 16-year-old son — who is set to attend the Urk fisheries school after the summer — see the Heidi as an investment in both the family business and the next generation. “This vessel allows us not only to fish, but also to pass on knowledge,” said Foppen.