Fourth Generation
Bertram Rickmers (1917-1971)
Following the death of their father, the three sons take over management of the family-run business. While Bertram Rickmers re-establishes the shipyard, his brother Peter Rickmers initially concerns himself with duties at Rickmers-Linie in Hamburg, supported by Claus Rickmers.
After the end of World War II, the Rickmers shipyard focuses its activities on constructing fishing vessels. The shipyard makes a name for itself internationally with a stern trawler made after its very own design.
In the 1970s, the Rickmers shipyard receives several major orders for the construction of special ferries. The shipyard takes on a pivotal role in Germany for the construction of RORO ferries.
In the 1960s and 1970s, the Rickmers-Linie in Hamburg begins to specialise on business with East Asia.
In 1974, the shipowner Hapag-Lloyd AG (formed after the merger of the Hamburg shipowner Hapag with the northern German company Lloyd Bremen) acquires shares in Rickmers-Linie.
In 1986, in the wake of the major shipbuilding crisis, the Rickmers shipyard in Bremerhaven is forced to file for bankruptcy.
In 1988, Hapag-Lloyd AG completes the takeover of Rickmers-Linie. The Rickmers-Linie ships retain their traditional colours and name, however.
