53-METRE YACHT SUPPORT RAFTER DEPARTS TO JOIN HER OWNER’S FLEET
Damen Yachting is pleased to announce the delivery and departure of the 53-metre Yacht Support RAFTER, built for her Owner as a purposeful extension of his fleet. She has now departed from the company’s dedicated shipyard in Antalya and will support the Owner’s private yachting programme.
Created around family experiences, shared moments on the water and operational purpose, YS53 RAFTER has been developed to provide additional space, support and flexibility for the Owner’s fleet. On board, RAFTER accommodates up to 8 guests and 10 crew plus Captain, with spaces designed around both functionality and comfort. Her interior reflects the Owner’s personal style, combining timeless elegance with Old English influences.
Reflecting on the collaboration, Rob Dolling, Owner’s Representative, says: “From the outset, there was a clear vision for how the Owner wanted to use YS53 RAFTER and the role she would play within the fleet. Together with Damen Yachting, we were able to translate those wishes into a vessel that is highly functional, personal and closely aligned with the Owner’s programme. The collaboration was constructive and efficient throughout the build, which was especially important given the timeframe. It is rewarding to see RAFTER ready to support the Owner, family and crew exactly as intended.”
For Damen Yachting, the departure marks a proud moment for the teams involved. Jan van Hogerwou, Commercial Executive USA, adds: “Seeing the 53-metre Yacht Support RAFTER depart Antalya is a proud moment for everyone involved. As the fourth Yacht Support 53 delivered by Damen Yachting, she reflects the versatility of the Yacht Support range within modern superyacht ownership and has been created with a very clear purpose. We are delighted to see her begin her next chapter as part of her Owner’s fleet and wish her Owner, Captain and crew fair winds and following seas.”
Built for Operational Flexibility the 53-metre Yacht Support vessel offers more than 200 square metres of open Main Deck space, providing a configurable area for tenders, toys and specialist equipment. A 15-tonne crane supports the handling of large tenders and heavy loads, while the reinforced deck allows for Touch & Go helicopter operations. Her signature axe bow is designed to support smooth performance in a wide range of sea conditions. The Yacht Support 53 series features exterior design, interior design and naval architecture developed in-house by Damen Yachting.
Drawing on Damen’s proven heritage in fast offshore support vessels, the 53-metre platform has been developed to provide a capable and flexible support vessel for a wide range of superyacht operations. To date, Damen Yachting has delivered more than 20 purpose-built support yachts.
