Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, and Driving Force Behind Dutch Innovation
In a world where aristocracy and entrepreneurship rarely intertwine, Prince Bernhard van Oranje stands as a unique figure—a royal who has leveraged his heritage, passion, and foresight to drive change across industries ranging from motorsports and technology to luxury boating and healthcare innovation. With over 130K followers on his Instagram account @bernhardvanoranje, he gives the public a curated glimpse into a life that balances tradition, modernity, and impact.
A Royal Legacy with a Modern Mission
Born into the Dutch royal family as the son of Princess Margriet of the Netherlands and Pieter van Vollenhoven, Bernhard van Oranje carries the title of Prince of Orange-Nassau. He is the nephew of former Queen Beatrix and cousin to the current King, Willem-Alexander. However, what sets Bernhard apart is his drive to create a legacy that is rooted not just in noble bloodlines, but in visionary entrepreneurship and meaningful social contributions.
Unlike many public figures born into royalty, Bernhard chose to forge his own path by entering the worlds of business, sports, and philanthropy—a decision that has earned him respect well beyond ceremonial titles.
The Entrepreneurial Spirit: Innovation in Action
At the heart of Bernhard’s influence lies his innovative business portfolio. He is associated with several companies that reflect his bold, forward-thinking approach:
1. Waterdream (www.waterdream.nl)
Founded with the philosophy of redefining boating luxury, Waterdream crafts high-end, Dutch-designed watercrafts that marry innovation with elegance. These boats are known for their sleek design, customizable features, and performance engineering—making them favorites among elite clients worldwide. Bernhard’s involvement highlights his passion for nautical excellence and sustainable luxury.
2. Levi9 (www.levi9.com)
As an investor and business partner, Bernhard supports Levi9, a European software development company specializing in IT outsourcing and nearshore services. The firm works with clients across diverse sectors, offering scalable solutions in digital transformation. His alignment with Levi9 underscores his belief in technology as a catalyst for business evolution.
3. Circuit Zandvoort (www.circuitzandvoort.nl)
Bernhard played an instrumental role in the revitalization of Circuit Zandvoort, the historic racetrack that now hosts the Formula 1 Heineken Dutch Grand Prix. As a motorsport enthusiast, he has been crucial in bringing back Formula 1 to the Netherlands after decades. His vision not only revived a national sporting event but also boosted tourism, local business, and international recognition.
Philanthropy and Purpose: Fighting for a Cure
Beyond his ventures in luxury and technology, Bernhard’s most heartfelt mission lies in the field of healthcare and cancer research. He is the founder of Lymph&Co (www.lymph-co.com), a foundation that raises awareness and funding for the fight against lymphatic cancer (lymphoma)—a cause close to his heart.
Lymph&Co has become a beacon of hope in cancer research by supporting scientific breakthroughs, organizing events, and partnering with leading research institutions. Through creative fundraising efforts—such as the Amsterdam City Swim and other royal-supported campaigns—the foundation has raised substantial donations, while encouraging public engagement in the fight against cancer.
The Prince of Progress on Instagram
Bernhard’s Instagram profile offers a lens into his dynamic life—a blend of royal sophistication, high-octane excitement, and human-centered causes. With 683 posts and a following of 130,000+, his feed reflects:
- Motorsport moments from F1 events and personal racing experiences
- Boat showcases featuring Waterdream’s latest models
- Philanthropic highlights from Lymph&Co events and campaigns
- Business engagements and international collaborations
- Personal reflections and behind-the-scenes glimpses into his world
His posts often blend luxury and action, but always rooted in authenticity and purpose—creating a unique public figure who resonates with both elite circles and everyday admirers.
Balancing Tradition with Transformation
What distinguishes Bernhard van Oranje is not simply his royal status, but his commitment to meaningful evolution. Whether it’s revamping a racing circuit to world-class standards, launching innovative marine solutions, or fighting for medical breakthroughs, Bernhard’s actions speak louder than his title.
He represents a new breed of European royalty—less focused on ceremonial duties and more invested in building, innovating, and healing. In doing so, he has become a relatable and respected figure for those who believe in legacy shaped by contribution rather than inheritance.
