The team at Amels and Damen Yachting has sold a new 72m full custom project to be built under its Damen Yachting brand. When delivered in early 2024, the vessel will explore the world with a hugely capable platform featuring hybrid propulsion for zero-emission cruising and accommodation for 12 guests.
The Owner, having an exceptional interest and aptitude for both exterior and interior yacht design, has selected professional designer Michael Leach Design to enhance the vessel’s exterior styling along with the Owner’s interior. Damen Yachting’s in-house team has developed the one-off custom naval architecture and detailed engineering. Burgess New Construction has been appointed to project manage the build, after the sales team represented the Owner during the purchase process.
“This hybrid expedition vessel is an absolutely unique project,” says Managing Director Rose Damen. “For us it has been very exciting to bring the Owner’s very unique vision to reality. We are dedicated to developing more efficient propulsion and power management solutions for our clients, which are underpinned by an environmentally sensitive mind-set. We are proud to be at the forefront of a new breed of luxury expedition vessels and this highly innovative new project embodies this approach.’’
Commercial Executive Jan van Hogerwou comments, “We have been able to apply many of the sustainable technologies that the Damen Shipyards Group has developed for a wide variety of maritime applications. But first and foremost, she is purpose-built for comfort, reliability and performance for an Owner with the goal of taking the utmost advantage of these qualities to explore new places in some of the most challenging waters in the world.’’
Edmund Beckett, Burgess New Construction said, “This project perfectly represents the seamless teamwork between the sales and new construction team within Burgess, and we are very proud and excited to continue this journey with the Owner, Damen Yachting and Michael Leach Design.”
The vessel is characterised by large and flexible outdoor spaces that can be used for both sun and shade as well as tender and toy storage. The deck can also accommodate modular equipment including a deck swimming pool and a removable battery bank. With a Gross Tonnage of 1,440, the spacious interior features a dedicated Owners Deck, a VIP cabin and generous areas for guest entertainment. A Touch & Go Helipad allows for convenient access.
Full service will be provided by up to 24 crew, including staff and specialists. The powerful deck crane will deploy equipment up to 14 tonnes including a 13-metre fast RIB, a 9-metre utility craft and a car.
The rugged ocean-going vessel will be powered by a highly efficient power and propulsion configuration. In addition to the two main engines, she will have PTO/PTI hybrid electrical drives that are suitable for running up to 8 knots. She will have significant on-board battery power for normal use including silent nights at anchor without generator power. The stored power can be increased with containerised battery packs for extended zero-emission silent cruising in fragile marine systems. All outdoor spaces will be finished in synthetic teak decking as a more sustainable, durable and low maintenance alternative.
The project will be completed entirely at the builder’s Vlissingen facility in the Netherlands. The steel hull will be constructed in cooperation with Damen Yachting’s sister company Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding.
