Umbra Yacht News & Events

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Umbra

When the 2010 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3235" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Umbra58.0m (190'3&quot;)Damen Yachting2010">Umbra</a> from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/37" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azure Yacht Design & Naval Architecture (Company)">Azure Naval Architects</a> went into refit in 2020 – 2021 at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4342" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Echo Yachts (Company)">Echo Yachts</a>, the work included an impressive stern extension to accommodate a larger beach club. As part of this development, the owners sought out <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5108" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VEEM Ltd. (Company)">VEEM Marine</a> for their expertise with gyrostabilisation to help reduce the roll of the extended vessel. Working closely with the client’s team and the yard, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5108" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VEEM Ltd. (Company)">VEEM Marine</a> specified a VG520SD gyrostabiliser and the hull extension provided the perfect location, permitting excellent access for routine maintenance and service.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/213238/image/large-300c1a5164c2a2a589bf7be20bcde77d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/213238">Perth-based marine products manufacturer, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5108" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VEEM Ltd. (Company)">VEEM Marine</a>, has been delivering innovative products, like those now aboard Umbra, to the yachting industry for more than 50 years. Today, the company continues to deliver gyrostabilisation and propulsion products to some of the most experienced and prestigious builders in the industry. Through the success of its gyro installations, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5108" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VEEM Ltd. (Company)">VEEM Marine</a> is showing to their clients and the industry that departing from traditional stabilisation systems can bring rich rewards.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3235" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Umbra58.0m (190'3&quot;)Damen Yachting2010">Umbra</a> has successfully completed her sea trials off the coast of Western Australia. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5108" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VEEM Ltd. (Company)">VEEM Marine</a> Global Commercial Manager, Brett Silich, said the completion of this contract represents another significant milestone in the growth of the company. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/213235/image/large-ffb597882d38e0fdf5f9fbe638a55c8e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/213235">“The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3235" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Umbra58.0m (190'3&quot;)Damen Yachting2010">Umbra</a> sea trials marks the third successful installation of our VG520SD units, and the event is a major testament to the whole team in getting this product out to market and proven in such short order.”“We are currently going through an exciting period of growth at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5108" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VEEM Ltd. (Company)">VEEM Marine</a> with the development of our next largest unit, the VG750SD. Targeted at larger superyachts, it will build on the success of the VG520SD. Having the largest global in-service fleet of gyrostabilisers in our vessel range means our products are always evolving to improve performance and reliability.”&nbsp;“The luxury yacht market is a key market for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5108" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VEEM Ltd. (Company)">VEEM Marine</a> as it has been with our propeller business. As such, we are building a dynamic team which will enable the company to manage the expected increase in demand for gyrostabilisers and ensure we have a more permanent presence of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5108" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VEEM Ltd. (Company)">VEEM Marine</a> staff in Europe to better serve our customers across the whole project lifecycle.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/213236/image/large-36b14b6a52bf758a9134aac2d6194a44.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/213236">It is <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5108" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VEEM Ltd. (Company)">VEEM Marine</a>’s modus operandi to deliver top level products which can be installed and developed in situ. With no external appendages, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5108" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VEEM Ltd. (Company)">VEEM Marine</a> gyrostabilisers afford their clients complete freedom as to where they choose to explore.&nbsp;Recognising that ongoing support is critical for the continued operational success of maritime equipment, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5108" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VEEM Ltd. (Company)">VEEM Marine</a> gyrostabilisers are fitted with remote monitoring and onboard telemetry to alert the shipowner, crew and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5108" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VEEM Ltd. (Company)">VEEM</a> technicians of any alarms or warnings that may require attention. Through remote monitoring, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5108" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VEEM Ltd. (Company)">VEEM Marine</a> are able to analyse the operations of their products and provide advice when it comes to extended service intervals or end of life rebuilds.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/213237/image/large-b76d0d79fd3a2609d23ffd6fad911849.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/213237">This article was originally published in Issue 39 of The&nbsp;SuperYacht Times&nbsp;newspaper. To receive all future issues straight to your door,&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">subscribe to the newspaper here</a>.

VEEM Marine's innovative gyrostabilisation technology

VEEM Marine, based in Perth, Australia, has innovated superyacht gyrostabilisation technology.

Innovating gyrostabilisation technology: VEEM Marine

The 54-metre motor yacht&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3235" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Umbra54.0m (177'2&quot;)Damen2010">Umbra</a> is now on the market and is looking for a new owner. Built by Dutch shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/18" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amels (Company)">Amels</a> in 2010, the support vessel underwent an extensive refit in 2017 at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/252" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Murray & Associates L.L.C. (Company)">Murray and Associates</a> in Indonesia which left her completely renewed.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/115007/image/large-9fe6c0bf2b5913228379b89f6f94a571.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/115007"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/115005/image/large-55776e77869ac93354c65e8e757bdbd7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/115005">With her exteriors and interiors designed in-house, this <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a> offers guests ample deck space and comes complete with a large garage, and a heavy-duty crane allowing her to carry a range of tenders and toys including two <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4195" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Triton (Company)">Triton</a> submarines, which are available for purchase separately.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/115008/image/large-5cc01b5ce19d1b682a871b41e81870ad.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/115008"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/115002/image/large-156f9fc7c919c3bcf55e84b640403763.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/115002"><a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/umbra/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Yacht Umbra for sale</a> also comes equipped with a full dive department with dive compressor, garage deck workshop, and a 7 x 2-metre storage mezzanine. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/motor/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a> can accommodate up to 19 crew in seven cabins: two four-berth cabins, two twin cabins, one triple cabin, and two ensuites for the captain and chief engineer. Walking further in, the galley, crew mess, walk-in refrigerator and freezer can be found on the lower decks.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/114999/image/large-8aa1a807814ba1791b269cc0056aec86.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/114999"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/114995/image/large-fe79e401503e60d57d6cf8c5c1d30d6c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/114995">Powered by four <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> 1,320 hp engines, the 451 GT <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/umbra/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht Umbra for sale</a> cruises at 25 knots and reaches a top speed of 28 knots. She also comes fitted with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5020" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Quantum Marine Stabilizers (Company)">Quantum Zero</a> stabilisers for added comfort at anchor.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/115006/image/large-bfdcd02e4c08f94aa330101fa5c65332.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/115006">

54m motor yacht Umbra for sale

New to the market: yacht Umbra for sale! She is a 54m Damen support vessel built in 2010 accommodating up to 19 crew.

 54m support yacht Umbra on the market

Dutch shipyard Damen has gone from strength to strength in the development of their Yacht Support concept. Since the introduction of the concept to the yachting world almost a decade ago, 10 vessels have been successfully delivered to general industry-wide acclaim, and the line has been expanded to include four size ranges from 43.2-metres to 89.40-metres. We caught up with Damen’s Victor Caminada for a closer look at how Damen’s Yacht Support has developed over the years and how they have secured their success.&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/21524/image/large-8960709c360b7191438659aeefe8fb58.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/21524"> Talk us through the development of Damen's Yacht Support vessels - the interest, particularly over the last couple of years, has been quite substantial. How has the concept been received over the years and are you still experiencing the same amount of interest and success 9 years following introduction to the industry?We formally introduced the Damen Yacht Support concept at the Monaco Yacht Show in 2009 with the YS 5009, a 50-metre “basic” version. We delivered the first two vessels, Oberon and Umbra in 2010. The concept immediately caught a lot of attention from superyacht owners and captains alike, and we soon after sold the 67-metre version to be named Garçon, which was completed in 2012. This, in turn, sparked the sale of the 6711 (6711 is the name of the vessel and, at the same time, the model), of which we have completed the two vessels; Intrepid and Game Changer. The YS 5009 also caught on fairly quickly after this, with the sale of Fast &amp; Furious, New Frontiers&nbsp;and Advantage.&nbsp;Our purpose-built, high-end Yacht Support concept has been gaining more and more momentum and clearly, we are the market leader in this field. Equally, we receive more and more enquiries as word spreads, and at this very moment, we are building another YS 5009. Our dedicated Damen yacht design and build-team here in Holland gains more and more experience and the vessels get better and better, so we’re confident in the successful longevity of this division of the company.&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/16115/image/large-184e4ebf860041acb5234132c3a844cb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/16115"> The number of clients looking for a sizable Yacht Support vessel is of course limited. How do you attract more potential clients?Well yes, it really is a niche market but Damen as a company in combination with the know-how of Amels is extremely well equipped to serve this market very well in terms of short delivery times, vessel capabilities, quality and - very importantly - value for money. Ticking all of these boxes helps us to attract as many potential clients as we can.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/23922/image/large-09b3137c3243710626d5e3259fb143ba.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/23922">What are some of the main advantages of owning a Yacht Support vessel?The advantages of owning a Yacht Support vessel is one of the reasons why the concept itself has gained so much momentum over the past few years. Just some of these advantages are a much better service to the owner and guests of the mother yacht (no waiting!), the ability to have more and much bigger toys, very safe helicopter operations, submarine handling, longer autonomy to make the most of cruising grounds such as Asia with little infrastructure and the fact that the commissioning of a YSV is a much lower investment than buying a larger mothership.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/15560/image/large-02fae8325c57dba5b46d5ad5f086a8c7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/15560"> What is the 'next level' Yacht Support at Damen? With the first Damen SeaXplorer scheduled for delivery next year and already a high-level finish on the Yacht Support models, is it difficult to take the concept to the next level without bordering too many similarities to the SeaXplorer?Well, right now we’re looking at expanding the size range of the Yacht Support range - both smaller and larger versions than what we have currently seen. And yes, the Yacht Support vessels and the SeaXplorer are getting closer in terms of the level of finish and the quality of both vessels, but it’s important to realise that the SeaXplorer is still a different kind of vessel to any of the Yacht Support designs. There are key differences in the exterior design, the finish in guest accommodation and level of autonomy on board… there’s room for both in the Damen family.&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/13947/image/large-e0124071cf44ab0cc74458c8274d638e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/13947">

Insight: The success of Damen’s Yacht Support Vessels

Damen announced the sale of their latest 55.3-metre Yacht Support Vessel, New Frontiers, just before Christmas. Now named Shadow, she was built on speculation and completed last summer before being officially revealed at the Monaco Yacht Show.&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/16115/image/large-184e4ebf860041acb5234132c3a844cb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/16115"> The sale of New Frontiers&nbsp;comes around a year after the sale of&nbsp;Fast &amp; Furious&nbsp;(now Axis), and follows New Frontiers' support of demonstration dives of Triton’s superyacht-optimised Triton 1650/3 LP submersible during a four-day event in the Balearic Islands last October.&nbsp;Regarding the support and adventure market, one of the first Damen Yacht Support vessels, Umbra, has recently gained international attention with Sir David Attenborough on board during the filming of the acclaimed Blue Planet II documentary from the BBC. Umbra - equipped with an ocean research laboratory - was utilised by the film crew as a base for submersible operations and divers, as well as for searching and filming by helicopter.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/19556/image/large-b683c758e4b850d555ef5a831713e6cb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/19556"> Commercial Director Rose Damen comments: “Whether a mesmerising weekend dive adventure to Truk Lagoon or Cocos Island, or enjoying two locations at once linked by helicopter, or all the benefits of lots of large tenders, toys, submersibles and storage, our Yacht Support range is all about unforgettable experiences and freedom.”At the time of sale, Shadow was listed at an asking price of €15,000,000. Damen currently have another 55-metre project in build, scheduled to be ready for delivery in summer this year.&nbsp;

Damen’s New Frontiers sold and renamed Shadow

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157324/image/large-1093cc0e82b937e7f4faff8d01d2d532.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157324">Superyachts Alucia and Umbra in San FransiscoIt is not often that the two strictly-functional and expedition-ready yachts Alucia and Umbra make a public appearance as seen here in San Francisco. Likely because these yachts, owned by the same owner, spend most of their time exploring the depths of the Pacific Ocean or anchored off some remote island.The 56 metre explorer vessel Alucia underwent a full 12-month refit last year in New Zealand where she had a new engine exhaust purification system installed and maintenance and upgrade of her submarine and dive control systems. These upgrades were necessary for the 40 year old vessel to retain her SOLAS standards and stay in survey to continue her mission as a no-nonsense world explorer.Her much younger and slightly smaller cruising companion, Umbra, started life as a fast support Sea Axe vessel built by Dutch shipyard Damen in 2010. She too was refitted by Diverse projects and released from the Oceania Marine shipyard in New Zealand in March this year with the addition of a removable helicopter pad. Shortly after she made news earlier in the year when she joined superyacht Dragonfly in Vanuatu to assist in relief efforts in aid of stricken communities on the island following a devastating cyclone that hit the region.By Charl van Rooy, photo by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/98732074@N00/" target="_blank">Dave R </a>

Explorer yachts Alucia and Umbra alongside in San Fransisco

The International Superyacht Society (ISS) announced the winners of the 2015 Design &amp; Leadership Awards yesterday at the 25th anniversary of ISS’s Awards Gala in Fort Lauderdale. In terms of the superyachts, award categories are separated into motor and sailing yachts in various size ranges, best interior design and best refit, in which six yachts were listed as winners with the 51.8 metre Elfje awarded two titles in the ceremony, including best interior.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156961/image/large-f088ba19c303a25b2bdb9cb136fa45bb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156961">The 33.04 metre Win Win from Baltic was awarded best sailing yacht between 24 to 40 metres, whilst best sailing yacht of 40+ metres was awarded to Elfje, built by Royal Huisman. Best refit went to the 82.6 metre Talitha, originally built by Krupp Germania Werft in 1930.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156962/image/large-a2a8af0617916aaee78aa70c7e76a9f7.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156962"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156963/image/large-a9821eb11991f0d9a8cce9d04b87ccd8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156963">In the motor yacht categories, the 38.55 metre Rossi Navi superyacht Taransay was awarded best yacht between 24 to 40 metres, whilst in the 40 to 65 metre category, Feadship’s 46.40 metre Kiss won, and Perini Navi’s 73.30 metre Grace E was awarded in the 60+ metre category.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156964/image/large-f382e719cf82760629f5b5c74172d445.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156964"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156965/image/large-78e21959d5705f7c450e10c70daee1bb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156965"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156966/image/large-0526f01b60560988fa11c282d593dda1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156966">Furthermore, Timothy Hodgdon of Hodgdon Yachts was awarded the 2015 Business Person of the Year, THEOcare Hygiene was awarded for Excellence in Innovation, Tim Heywood of Tim Heywood Designs was awarded the Leadership Award, Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation received the ISS Fabien Cousteau Blue Award, whilst the Distinguished Crew Award went to the crews of Dragonfly and Umbra for their relief work in Vanuatu.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156967/image/large-05f5abb47719f50d8ef507b60d81132f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156967"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156968/image/large-b8808d7aabcb1f9252f528f6ed56e044.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156968">ISS will be present at this year's Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, which kicks off today in Florida.By Gemma Fottles

ISS Design & Leadership Award winners

Oceania Marine, the New Zealand shipyard currently overseeing the conversion project of the Damen fast support yacht Advantage, reports that the vessel has been hauled out and is now ready for work to commence. The yard will have their hands full over the next few months, with a delivery date scheduled ahead of Christmas this year.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155718/image/large-b7b855f2786509340f8f493bee22349b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155718">Work that will be conducted as part of the vessels conversion include a complete repaint of the exterior, an extension to her stern by having a module fitted to her transom as well as the addition of a large deck crane. Her interior will also see major modifications, with structural changes to take place before the entire interior is to be outfitted to suit her new superyacht standard.“We were very pleased with the outcome on the last Damen project, Umbra, and obviously this has been an influential factor in the decision to bring Advantage to our shipyard. We are well set up to cater for the wide variety of requirements that a project of this nature entails and are looking forward to the challenge of the next few months,” said Oceanis Marine’s Managing Director.By Charl van Rooy

Update on Damen fast support yacht conversion project

Oceania Marine in New Zealand are currently underway with works to transform the 50m fast support vessel known before as EDT Nefeli, into a superyacht support vessel. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5937" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ad Vantage53.25m (174'8&quot;)">Advantage</a>, according to a local New Zealand news source, is receiving a multimillion-dollar refit that will include a new storage garage on deck and tender crane.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155629/image/large-b496a852ad2cd3dbc5e8da7c2a26d3fb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155629">The Damen-built support vessel <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5937" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ad Vantage53.25m (174'8&quot;)">Advantage</a> started out as a firefighting and fast crew support vessel servicing offshore platforms while being in the service of the Mahita Sea Shipping company. In addition to her new superyacht-standard interior and exterior refurbishing, the vessel will also be lengthened. The ship was reportedly bought two months ago by her owner, who had her shipped to New Zealand to have the refit conducted by Oceania Marine.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155630/image/large-439474cf9ed8a16671515945dc1f7b97.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155630">The Whangarei-based shipyard is no stranger to completing works on superyachts. Recent projects by the yard include the refit of 46m Palmer Johnson superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2404" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vantage45.7m (149'11&quot;)">Vantage</a>, the haul-out of Fitzroy Yachts’ very last delivered yacht, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4573" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Escapade37.5m (123'0&quot;)">Escapade</a>, as well as the incredible transformation of Damen-built sister ship <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3235" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Umbra51.3m (168'4&quot;)">Umbra</a>, who recently aided devastated communities after a hurricane destroyed the island of Vanuatu.<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6wlDAftohQE" width="560" class="fr-draggable"></iframe>The refit project on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5937" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ad Vantage53.25m (174'8&quot;)">Advantage</a> is reported to employ 100 people from the local community, with neighbouring company Ship Repair NZ contracted to complete the heavy fabrication tasks of the project.

Damen-built shadow vessel undergoing superyacht conversion

YachtAid Global (YAG) has called on the yachting industry to support its ongoing fundraising efforts for aid in the island nation of Vanuatu in the wake of the destruction of Cyclone Pam, which devastated the area in early March this year. The California based non-profit organisation is also requesting support in Micronesia after Typhoon Mayask, which hit on 30th March.<strong style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; background-image: none; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px; text-align: -webkit-center;"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/153794/image/large-7044660b65207e2bc49ec4873e3c2be5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/153794">YAG recently collaborated with two privately owned yachts which mobilised to Vanuatu for several days following the wide-scale destruction and devastation seen on the islands, Umbra and Dragonfly. The superyachts delivered approximately 140,000 liters of water and several tons of aid over a ten day period using their helicopters. The yachts also helped to contribute to the crisis by requisitioning emergency medivac and administering critical medical care, clearing roads, helping re-build schools and homes, and completing needs assessments in collaboration with local partners and the National Disaster Management Office.<strong style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; background-image: none; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px; text-align: -webkit-center;"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/153795/image/large-df416a78e2bf9f8b14b4bea68bd1fa68.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/153795">The company has proposed the following donations for the continued support, “To help address this humanitarian crisis in a known yachting paradise, YAG is seeking minimum donations of $50 - $100 per person/crew member and/or $1000 per corporation from yachting/marine related industries whereby all make a difference, coming together as a community and beyond.” To help spread the word, YAG add, “Once a donation is made, please #TAGYAG on your Social Media outlets and urge others to as well to ‘Pay it Forward’.”YAG Founder, Mark Drewelow, states, “The people of Vanuatu – already one of the most undeveloped countries in the world prior to the Cyclone – desperately need our help. Although we have had two yachts that responded immediately to the crisis and have helped save lives and stabilise this humanitarian crisis, there are scores of islands that are in need of basic necessities like water, food, clothing, fuel, building materials, school supplies, medication and medical supplies, etc. We are counting on the yachting community to spread the word.”<strong style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px; text-align: -webkit-center; background-image: none;">By Gemma Fottles

YachtAid Global campaign for disaster relief efforts in Vanuatu

In the wake of the destruction across the islands of Vanuatu after category five Tropical Cyclone Pam made landfall two weeks ago, owners of the Queensland, Australia Rivergate Marina have extensively travelled the area to support the relief effort.<strong style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; background-image: none; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px; text-align: -webkit-center;"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/153148/image/large-0da3460c5582abfd30ded87ee99ad400.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/153148">Hitting landfall on March 13th, Tropical Cyclone Pam is considered one of the worst natural disasters ever experienced by the people of Vanuatu; leaving an aftermath of overwhelming devastation. The latest reports indicate that over 65,000 people are now homeless and over 110,000 are left without safe drinking water. Rivergate Marina report that Vanuatu is now in desperate need for immediate, and ongoing, international aid and support.<strong style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; background-image: none; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px; text-align: -webkit-center;"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/153149/image/large-2dbe290d83c8f92192c3b1d9ac421ac0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/153149">Working in conjunction with YachtAid Global, the donations made by the marina have already had a substantial impact, delivering 2,300 ten litre water containers in addition to boxes of 500ml water bottles; empty pallets; 20 cargo bags for use with heli-ops; and other equipment including clothes and jet fuel for assisting helicopters. Rivergate Marina and Shipyard’s General Manager, Andrew Cannon said, “We’re doing what we can to help the people of Vanuatu who were all affected by this catastrophic and heartbreaking event and we’re calling on others to do what they can.”<strong style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; background-image: none; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px; text-align: -webkit-center;"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/153150/image/large-9127dcd9214aaf44f275b5526f72899a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/153150">It was organised for chase-boat Umbra, with helicopter support, to deliver the cargo into Port Vila on Thursday last week. Umbra was undergoing works in Auckland, New Zealand when the cyclone hit; changing course to immediate route to Port Vila where Rivergate’s emergency supplies were distributed to those in need, reaching islands where there has been no prior contact or aid provided.“I’m really proud of the Rivergate team and what Yacht Aid Global has achieved”, Cannon continues, “It’s impressive to see what the Superyacht industry is capable of in times like this”. But, Rivergate importantly note that the need for assistance in Vanuatu is far from over, with many suggesting the relief effort will need to be ongoing for months to come to help the community get back on its feet.By Gemma Fottles

More superyacht aid news from Vanuatu

Auckland’s Diverse Projects team in New Zealand has announced the completion of the refit of the 51.3 metre superyacht Umbra. Launched by the Dutch shipyard Damen in 2010, the extensive refit included several structural changes as well as an exterior repaint and full survey.<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/120432114" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe>A total of two metres were added to the stern of the vessel as well as the addition of a removable helipad. Speaking on behalf on the refit team, John Vitali says, "The Damen Sea Axe vessel was designed to slice through water and despite the major modifications, by size, pre-refit calculations have been proved correct says Diverse Projects. The vessel performed to its newly engineered specifications during sea trials, achieving the pre-refit expectations for speed.”Six different specialists acted as contractors on the project, which provided a welcome boost to the Whangarei area in New Zealand’s Northland where it was carried out at Oceania Marine, in association with neighbouring yard Ship Repair.By Gemma Fottles

Extensive refit of 51m superyacht Umbra complete

The 51 metre support vessel Umbra is currently undergoing a refit in Whangarei’s Oceania Marine in New Zealand. Auckland based company, Diverse Projects, have been chosen as the owner’s representative.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/151308/image/large-cd67dc4bd29aa01818efd2fb383295e3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/151308">The project is expected to take around three months in total, and will include fitting a removable helicopter deck and the structure to support it while adding two metres to the stern, undertaking a full exterior repaint in the owner’s colours, and finally, a full vessel survey.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/151309/image/large-dddf8824d80e6527538fcfd294aca2cb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/151309">Diverse Projects is employing its virtual shipyard approach to ensure Umbra’s seaworthiness and speed remain after the extensive adjustments to her structure. The approach uses a process-based software developed in-house to deliver a project which can be mapped by the owner, or their team, in very fine detail as the refit progresses. By breaking down each task within the refit to its individual components, the Diverse team have created a system which flags any potential roadblocks or budget overruns long before they arrive, delivering a quick, efficient refit process.“By being able to monitor and track each task live in every aspect, including costing and invoicing, we can easily spot where a potential problem might arise, plus it’s all captured within that task forever. This information can also be invaluable for when the yacht does its next refit down the line,” says Lars Bjorklund, Diverse Projects project manager.After the completion of Umbra’s refit, she will return to a busy cruising schedule in the Pacific.By Gemma Fottles

The 51m superyacht Umbra refit in New Zealand

The 51.30 metre superyacht Umbra is the second Sea Axe vessel built by the Dutch Damen Shipyards Group and has been slipped at Oceania Marine’s North Shipyard in Port Whangarei, New Zealand for major upgrades. The vessel was launched in 2010 and shadows a 57 metre explorer yacht. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/150121/image/large-17f5d81aaffe22d71be333d6d3ffd5a1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/150121">The project is scheduled to be completed within the next three months and includes a two metre addition to the stern and the fitting of a helicopter deck, as well as all of the equipment and infrastructure supporting helicopter operations. At the same time, a full exterior repaint in the owners chosen colours and vessel survey requirements will be done.Project manager at Oceania Marine, Brent Charlesworth, explains, “We are working to a very tight schedule and have a lot to do within the time frame. As a consequence, we have put together a work team involving our best workers, sub-contractors and suppliers available from within Port Whangarei.”By Gemma Fottles

Damen 51.3m Umbra arrives at Oceania Marine for refit

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/146095/image/large-ae11d66535b3dcd0933d14b7c9902aa0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/146095">Umbra in GibraltarUmbra is the second Sea Axe vessel built by the Dutch Damen Shipyards Group. She was launched in 2010. The vessel can achieve 21 knots and features ingenious solutions such as removable accommodation pod and storage containers to suit the yacht owner's requirements. Umbra was sold last week.Photo by Giovanni Romero / <a href="http://www.SuperYachtPhoto.com" target="_blank">SuperYachtPhoto.com</a>

Sea Axe support vessel Umbra in Gibraltar

Yachting Partners International (YPI) together with SuperYachtsMonaco have announced the sale of 51.30 metre motor yacht Umbra with YPI Director of Sales, Russell Crump acting for the buyer and SuperYachtsMonaco acting for the seller.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/146077/image/large-ccb3308ef7eb9c6192e09392ff67c321.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/139179">Umbra is the second Sea Axe vessel built by the Dutch Damen Shipyards Group. She was launched in 2010.Yachting Partners International + 377 99 99 97 97 <a href="mailto:brokerage@ypigroup.com?subject=Article%20on%20SuperYachtTimes.com">brokerage@ypigroup.com</a> <a href="http://www.ypigroup.com">www.ypigroup.com</a> SuperYachtsMonaco +377 9325 0348 <a href="mailto:sales@superyachtsmonaco.com?subject=Article%20on%20SuperYachtTimes.com">sales@superyachtsmonaco.com</a> <a href="http://www.superyachtsmonaco.com/" target="_blank">www.superyachtsmonaco.com</a>

Sea Axe superyacht Umbra sold

SuperYachtsMonaco has listed the 50 metre fast support yacht Umbra for sale. Umbra is a very lightly used Damen Sea Axe yacht support vessel which has been heavily customised for use by an experienced yacht owner's fleet. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/139179/image/large-bc436e34bb5a70f3dc0c78b5183084d7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/139179">The vessel can achieve 21 knots and features ingenious solutions such as removable accommodation pod and storage containers to suit the yacht owner's requirements. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/139180/image/large-590c89d2774728dfd4f48520cbedab30.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/139180">The price of the vessel is on application and she is available for inspections in Barcelona. SuperYachtsMonaco Jim Evans +377 9325 0348 <a href="mailto:jimevans@superyachtsmonaco.com?subject=Umbra%20on%20SuperYachtTimes.com">jimevans@superyachtsmonaco.com</a> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.superyachtsmonaco.com/">www.superyachtsmonaco.com</a> By Merijn de Waard