Damen launches 55-metre yacht-support vessel Blue Ocean
Blue Ocean’s after deck is big enough to accommodate a float plane and several large tenders.
Damen has launched its latest superyacht-support vessel – the 55-metre Blue Ocean – at its shipyard in Antalya, in Turkey’s southern Mediterranean region.
A Damen spokesperson told Supyeryacht Investor: “Blue Ocean is the first Damen yacht support to be built with a large multipurpose main deck hangar, which can be used for submersible and dive operations, or as a vehicle garage or workshop, providing great versatility for owners to use the yacht to meet their specific requirements.”
The vessel – which can even accommodate a modestly-sized float plane – is equipped for adventure missions thanks to her 12-tonne deck crane combined with 240 square metres of deck space. “This is ideal for efficient lifting operations of large and heavy equipment like submersibles and large tenders up to 15 metres in length,” added the spokesperson. The design includes a stern A-frame installation.
‘Delivered more than 16 Damen Yacht Supports’
Damen said the latest launch was in response to strong demand for Yacht Support range since its introduction in 2008. “To date we have delivered more than 16 Damen Yacht Supports. Blue Ocean is the eighth yacht to be launched from the popular 55-metre YS 5009 design and is a great example of the multipurpose role of Yacht Support vessels,” according to the company.
A further two yacht-support vessels are under construction. Boats within the range vary in size from 45 to 75 metres.
Blue Ocean accommodates eight guests staying in four cabins, making her suitable for short breaks away from the mother yacht or overflow accommodation. She features a sun deck and a main deck lounge with panoramic views.
Reaches speeds above 20 knots
Available for delivery this spring, the vessel reaches speeds above 20 knots and has a crew of 7 and extra accommodation for four staff, pilots, security or guides.
Damen said its facility in Antalya is highly experienced in building yacht-support vessels, with design and engineering taking place at its headquarters at Gorinchem, in the Netherlands. “Whilst Damen’s yachting division is based in The Netherlands, Damen is a global shipbuilder with more than 33 shipyards around the world and these are facilities that are used for a number of Damen projects.”
Meanwhile, Damen’s 46-metre Joy Rider was launched last July 5 at its Gorinchem yard in the Netherlands.
Blue Ocean – at a glance
- Length: 55.5m
- Gross tonnage: 499t
- Deck space: 240 square metres
- Speed: 20 knots
- Range at 10 knots: 5,000 nautical miles
- Four-cabin layout
- Accommodates eight guests
- Reduced draught suitable for Bahamas operations (3 metres).
Blue Ocean is the eighth yacht to be launched from Damen’s popular 55-metre YS 5009 series of support yachts.
