Man Plans to Revive Noah’s Ark Replica in Netherlands

Why this is here: About 600,000 people visited the ark replica during the four years it was open to the public, leading Vandy to believe there is continued interest.

Daniël Vandy of Biddinghuizen, Netherlands intends to purchase a full-scale replica of Noah’s Ark currently docked in Krimpen aan den IJssel. He plans to fund the 1.5 million euro purchase and renovation by selling his house and business. The ark, originally built by Johan Huibers in 2012, welcomed roughly 600,000 visitors during its four years of operation before closing its doors.

Vandy is already collecting donations and reports having raised over half a million euros through contributions from churches in the Netherlands, Brazil, and the United States. He previously clarified a recent sale, explaining that Wim Beelen managed the ark but never owned it.

The vessel requires significant repair due to wood rot, and Vandy intends to rely on volunteers for the restoration. If successful, he envisions making the ark freely accessible to the public and living aboard, though securing the full funding remains a challenge. The project continues as Vandy seeks final funds at the ‘Opwekking’ event.