Damen dedicating further yard space to build SeaXplorer 77

Dutch yard Damen is allocating more yard space to facilitate production on its SeaXplorer series of explorer yachts. The news arrives just months after the yacht builder announced that construction of the first SeaXplorer 77 project had begun.

Damen has reallocated much of the yard space at Vlissingen-East, previously used for building military vessels, to create space for production of its new SeaXplorer series. Damen Yacht Support vessels will also be built at this yard.

Due to launch in 2020, SeaXplorer 77 has been commissioned by a client who wants to use it as a surfing, diving and heliskiing platform. The 2,700GT yacht is a follow-up to SeaXplorer 65, and is scheduled for fitting out at the end of the year.

Rose Damen, commercial director of yachting at Damen and Amels, noted that SeaXplorer 77 has a strong emphasis on helicopter operations, designed around a pair of customised Airbus ACH125s.

“It not only has a fully certified helideck for safe landings, it also has a standby surface for a backup helicopter,” she said. "Both helicopters can fit in the below deck hangar, so they’re protected from the elements.”

Key features on board include a specialist ski room with avalanche safety equipment and storage space for snowmobiles, Jet Skis and a 10.5-metre tender, while the reinforced ice-classed hull, which is compliant with the new IMO Polar Code, enables the SeaXplorer 77 to operate safely in high latitude regions.

The owner, who has been heavily involved in the design process, noted, “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.”

SeaXplorer 77’s globetrotting credentials are strengthened by dedicated aircraft fuel tanks, storage for helicopter spares and pilot accommodation. She will have a maximum autonomy of 40 days.

Accommodation is for up to 12 guests and 25 crewmembers, including guides and pilots, as well as the yacht’s operational crew.

Further details are currently being kept under wraps by the yard, but it is understood that Azure Naval Architects contributed to the naval architecture, and the yacht will have an estimated cruising speed of 14.5 knots.

For more information, visit Damen.