OKE History
About
OKE's story begins in Hirtshals in 1946, where she was built by Hansen & Bilde Skibs- og Bådebyggeri. She is one of ten boats with a completely unique hull shape. Today, OKE is the last remaining example of that type. And what an example..
OKE is in top condition as an ambassador boat in Skagen Harbor as a symbol of Skagen's proud maritime history.
OKE's name is an acronym created by her original owner, Gerhard Bruun. His father's name was Ole, his grandfather's name was Karl and his grandmother's name was Elise. In 1951, OKE was sold to Thomas Nielsen, who primarily used her for herring fishing in the waters around Skagen.
In 1978, OKE was purchased by businessman Jørgen Philip-Sørensen, who refitted her and used her as a private leisure boat. Jørgen Philip-Sørensen was an extraordinarily visionary businessman who understood how relationships and business connections thrived to a very special degree, during a trip out into the fresh sea air. In the same way that the Skagerrak and Kattegat meet and flow together at Grenen, businesses were created and communities strengthened aboard OKE.
After his death in 2010, the family donated OKE to the Port of Skagen, so that the local business community and companies can benefit from her and utilize the potential that Jørgen Philip-Sørensen already saw back in 1988.
The good ship OKE is not operated on commercial terms. She is a gift to the Port of Skagen for use by the business community. Income from loans goes solely to cover her operating costs.
OKE is a piece of cultural heritage that connects Skagen's past with the present. Therefore, it is important for OKE's management that as many people as possible become aware of its extensive uses.
See you on board!
