Yacht Support vessels are becoming hot property and very much in vogue.
Not only are superyacht owners seeking a second to carry the toys are ordering them, but increasingly, they are being purchased as a stand alone superyacht.
They differ from the traditional wedding cake yacht in that they can do anything and go anywhere. Those that market them would like t see them be called the Humvee of the sea but they are becoming so common place now they are only just a little more newsworthy than the new Renault Kadjar
Dutch shipbuilder Damen has just unveiled the sixth hull construction of the popular YS 5009 design for delivery in summer 2018.
Currently being built on spec as Power Play will be configured for a blend of adventure and superyacht support functions following in the wake of previous deliveries Ad-Vantage, Axis and New Frontiers, now renamed Shadow.
On Power Play, the design team has added new enhancements, including a new 50 square-metre Aft Adventure Centre/Dive Centre, more autonomy and facilities for operating in zero-discharge zones such as marine nature reserves.
Power Play accommodates 6 guests staying in 3 suites, making her suitable for short breaks away from the mother yacht or even a complete yachting solution. She features a Sun Deck and a Main Deck lounge with panoramic views.
With a Gross Tonnage of 489, the high support capability of a Damen Yacht Support vessel is still there, including the 12-tonne deck crane and stern A-frame fittings for efficient launch and retrieval of large and heavy equipment like submersibles. Power Play reaches speeds above 20 knots with a crew of 7 and extra accommodation for 4 staff, pilots, security or guides.
Damen Product Director Mark Vermeulen: “It’s inspiring to see how a new generation of owners is driving this market. It’s very dynamic, it’s not the conventional thinking about luxury yachting. Our clients have fantastic ideas for diving, aircraft, luxury toys and serious boats. They are planning adventures of a lifetime and even getting involved in underwater exploration, science, film-making or racing yacht events. As a shipbuilder, it’s exciting to be a part of making their ideas a reality.”