A family business, on the world stage.
Founded in 1928, Lyon Shipyard remains family-led — combining the accountability of a small business with the capabilities of an international yard.
For nearly a century, Lyon Shipyard has stood on the same stretch of the Elizabeth River — building, repairing, and converting the vessels that move the world's cargo, defend its shores, and harvest its energy.
We are large enough to drydock the largest commercial vessels operating on the U.S. East Coast, and small enough that the owner still walks the deck. That combination is rare in this industry — and it's the reason fleets return to us, decade after decade.
Today, our 650-person team includes naval architects, certified welders, master machinists, and project managers who have collectively delivered more than 8,000 vessel repairs and conversions.
Every weld inspected. Every tolerance honored. We measure ourselves by what we leave behind, not what we ship.
One project manager. One phone number. Daily reports — even when there's nothing new to say.
OSHA VPP Star site. Zero lost-time incidents on our last 4 major availabilities.
Milestones
Founded on the Norfolk waterfront as a family ship-repair shop.
First major Navy auxiliary contract awarded; workforce surpasses 100.
Fabrication division opens — expanding into custom steel work.
1,200ft floating drydock commissioned; deepwater berths added.
ISO 9001 + OSHA VPP Star certifications achieved.
Offshore wind service vessel program launched.