Palm Beach International Boat show was the occasion for the Dutch yacht builder Damen, parent company to superyacht builder Amels, to reveal that they began the construction of its 77-metre SeaXplorer 77 project. New SeaXplorer, as well as Damen Yacht Support Vessels series will be built at the Damen's facility Vlissingen East which they used to build military vessels. She can be described like this : two helicopters, two helidecks, two hangars, dive and submersible centre, high autonomy and capability!



Client, who commissioned the SeaXplorer 77 will use it as a surfing, diving and heliskiing platform. This 77-metre explorer yacht with 2,700GT is scheduled to be launched in 2020, as a follow-up to the SeaXplorer 65, which was sold in 2016 and will be fitted in and out by the end of the year.

Rose Damen, commercial director of yachting at Damen and Amels, stated that the SeaXplorer 77 is focused heavily on helicopter operations, so it'll be capable of carrying 2 customized 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.”, says Rose Damen.

Outstanding features will include a separated ski room with avalanche safety equipment and as well as storage space 10.5-metre tender, Jet Skis and snowmobiles. SeaXplorer 77 boasts the reinforced ice classed hull, so the vessel can operate safely in high latitude regions.



The owner is involved deeply in the design, added, “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.”



Dedicated aircraft fuel tanks, storage for helicopter spares and pilot accommodation will add to its globetrotting credentials. A true explorer yacht, the SeaXplorer 77 will have a maximum autonomy of 40 days. 



Accommodation is for up to 12 guests and 25 members of all the staff. No more details were announced yet, but it is understood that Azure Naval Architects will be responsible for the naval architecture, and the yacht will have an estimated cruising speed of 14.5 knots.

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