Damen Yachting has announced the relaunch of motor yacht ALBATROSS after an extensive refit by Amels. The 260ft (79.2m) yacht will now enter the final outfitting phase and begin sea trials. As this vessel was originally constructed by Delta Marine, Damen Yachting remarked that the refit project was “nothing short of extraordinary.”
For a refit as substantial as ALBATROSS, Damen Yachting drew from their vast knowledge of large-scale refit projects and new build construction. The yacht’s owners instilled utmost faith in the expertise of Amels Refit with their decision to modify and improve their vessel instead of opting to start from scratch with a new build. ALBATROSS now has a completely remodeled interior, designed by Harrison Eidsgaard, in addition to extensive modifications of the exterior’s naval architecture.
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Michel Coens, Head of Refit & Services at Damen Yachting, stated, “It has been an incredible journey undertaking the refit of ALBATROSS in collaboration with everyone involved including the Owners team, Harrison Eidsgaard, and our Amels Refit specialists. The scale and magnitude of this refit has been a team effort. We have reconfigured the layout and carried out major engineering reworks.”
These reworks include extending the vessel’s length by 7m (nearly 23ft), first by removing a 10m (32ft) portion to install a new 17m (55ft 8in) section. In a feat of engineering, the yacht’s stability was maintained after the vessel grew from 72 to 79 meters. This enormous task required the redesign of several systems, including raising the exhaust systems to accommodate the added weight. The project was a collaborative effort, leveraging the expertise of Damen Yachting’s engineers and designers to meet performance standards and the Owner’s expectations.
By reconfiguring both the interior and exterior layout, ALBATROSS saw the addition of amenities including a beach club and wellness center, exterior pool, a Winter Garden, and expanded exterior lounge areas. Continuing his praise of the superyacht, Coens remarked, “Her transformation is stunning. You can still see hints of her original DNA which have been reshaped and reworked to meet the Owners ownership needs moving forward.”
“The Owners are passionate about boating and are eagerly awaiting the boat’s return,” said Captain Nathan Milicich. “Their excitement is matched by our commitment, combined with Damen Yachting’s, to deliver a boat that is safe, beautifully crafted, and ready for their adventures. In essence, the refit of ALBATROSS represents a blend of tradition and innovation… driven by a shared passion for the sea and boating in its most natural form.”
Watch ALBATROSS on anchor at night, circa 2018 video on YouTube.
Upon her delivery later in 2025, ALBATROSS will host 12 guests and 2 staff and will operate with a captain and 18 crew.
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