Damen launches largest ever yacht support vessel

Dutch shipyard Damen, has launched its largest ever superyacht support vessel, 69m Intrepid.

Previously known as Sea Axe 6911, she was christened as Intrepid on her launch, and makes up part of the Sea Axe range created by the partnership between Amels and Damen, its parent company.

Intrepid has been modelled on Damen’s previous high-speed patrol and offshore support vessels, and is designed to carry a variety of support vessels including helicopters, boats and submarines as well as a team of extra staff. Aboard Intrepid is a helicopter workshop and a “sunken garage”, according to Victor Caminada of Amels, where helicopters can be stored.

There is also a dive centre, 110sqm of storage below deck, and 250sqm of deck space for tenders and toys. There is also room to accommodate up to 22 crew and staff. She offers a sailing speed of up to 20 knots.

Mark Vermuelen, product director at Damen commented, “The owner’s team came to us with a lot of client-specific customisations for what was then our 67m platform.

“They put a lot of thought into how the owner would like to operate the yacht support vessel in combination with the mother yacht. Now we’ve put a lot of that client feedback into the updated design – the Sea Axe 6911.”

For more information, visit Damen.