Damen Yachting has delivered the 53-metre Yacht Support Rafter, built for its owner as a purposeful extension of his fleet. The vessel has now departed from the company’s dedicated shipyard in Antalya and will support the owner’s private yachting programme.
YS53 Rafter has been developed to provide additional space, support and flexibility for the owner’s fleet. On board, Rafter accommodates up to eight guests and ten crew plus captain, with spaces designed around both functionality and comfort.
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 it 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.’
Also read: Damen Yachting launches fourth 53-metre Yacht Support
Operational flexibility
The Rafter is the fourth Yacht Support 53 delivered by Damen Yachting. It offers more than 200 m2 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 and go helicopter operations.
The 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.
YS53 particulars
Drawing on Damen’s 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 twenty purpose-built support yachts.
YS53 Rafter particulars:
- Length: 53.00 metres / 175 ft
- Gross tonnage: 498 GT
- Accommodation: 8 guests, 10 crew plus captain
- Interior design: Damen Yachting
- Exterior design: Damen Yachting
- Naval architecture: Damen Yachting
Picture: Rafter is the fourth Yacht Support 53 delivered by Damen Yachting (photo by Damen Yachting).
