Palm Beach International Boat Show ©2017 Forest Johnson

Dutch shipbuilding company Damen stole the Palm Beach International Boat Show by revealing an on-going project: the construction of a 77-metre long SeaXplorer 77.

Damen was established by the two Damen brothers, Jan and Rien, in 1927. The company saw its humble beginnings with the duo building ships in a shed next to their family home. Five years later, they formalised the company as Damen Brothers. It was not until 1969 when Krommer Damen bought the company from his father and developed the modular shipbuilding concept. The strategy, known today as The Damen Standard, inspired fast delivery times, reduced costs, and birthed proven designs. Success of the standard enabled Damen to grow quickly, expanding the company to larger facilities in the Netherlands. Today, Damen is a leading shipbuilding company with more than 9,000 employees.

Who’s The Mystery Buyer?

The superyacht was commissioned by a mystery client for use as a surfing, diving, and heliskiing platform in remote places. Thus, Damen is committed extensively on helicopter operations – the vessel will be equipped with two helicopters, two helidecks, and two hangars.

Airbus ACH © Airbus Helicopters / Camille Moirenc

“It not only has a fully certified helideck for safe landings, it also has a standby surface for a backup helicopter… Both helicopters can fit in the below deck hangar, so they’re protected from the elements.” says Rose Damen, commercial director of yachting at Damen and Amels. The superyacht will carry 2 customised Airbus ACH125s.

Other prominent features include a separated ski room with avalanche safety equipment and a 10.5-metre tender to store Jet Skis and snowmobiles. The vessel is also fully functional in high latitude regions, boasting a reinforced ice-classed hull.

Damen SHADOW © 2017 Yacht Charter Fleet

Naturally, it is no wonder that the mystery buyer pulls considerable weight in the design process of such a magnificent craft that will accomodate 12 guests and 25 members of crew.

“Some people think that fans of outdoor activities should stay in fleabag motels and dry their wet socks on radiators. I believe that you can combine the most active outdoor adventures and sports with ultimate comfort,” the mystery buyer shared.

© Damen Shipyards Group 2018

The SeaXplorer 77 will have a maximum autonomy of 40 days to cruise at an estimated speed of 14.5 knots, boasting dedicated aircraft fuel tanks, storage for helicopter spares, and pilot accomodation to make it a true globetrotting superyacht.

The 77-metre explorer yacht with 2,700GT is scheduled to be launched in 2020, as a follow-up to the SeaXplorer 65, and will be fitted in and out by the end of the year.