Dutch yard Damen Yachting has delivered the first unit in its new support vessel YS 53 series to legendary sportfisherman Anthony Hsieh. Christened Bad Company Support, the 53.3-metre will join an expansive fleet of yachts and boats as part of Hsieh's global fishing programme.
In May 2023, the yacht was launched in Antalya, Turkey as part of an exclusive ceremony attended by Hsieh and members of the BOAT International team.
The hull, formerly known as YS 501, is the first unit in the yard's new support yacht line, which aims to offer increased flexibility and customisation while drawing on Damen Yachting's significant experience in building hardy explorers. Bad Company Support will cruise in some of the planet's most unchartered waters, offering gamefishing expeditions, supporting marine conservation projects and operating as a "hub" for the owner and his specialist crew.
Hsieh has a total of 10 yachts and boats across the world, but this is his largest, as well as his first time commissioning as opposed to buying second-hand. The new Bad Company Support will replace his 46-metre former Damen Yachting model of the same name.
"No-one has ever done this before and I think this will set a whole new tier of adventure for future yachts people," said Hsieh in a press release. "This is a lifelong dream starting to become reality. The plans we have with the boat in future years is stunning — she will see the world! We will spend all our time on this boat to make the most of all the different luxuries and amenities she has."
The sale of the model was announced in early May 2022 after being brought to market in February 2022. At the time, he commented: "My hope is that this ambitious programme will inspire a whole new generation of sportsmen to create their own programmes. It will be good for the sport, yachting and fishing industries."
Features of the 499GT yacht include an impressive 15-tonne deck crane and full IMO Tier III compliance, which aims to reduce emissions by 70 per cent. Top speeds will be 19 knots, and Bad Company Support will have accommodation for between six to sixteen guests and staff, plus ten crew and a captain. Design and naval architecture has been completed entirely in-house by Damen Yachting.
"In pursuit of a lifelong dream, the owner's involvement has been crucial in shaping the project, with enhancements based on his personal and very specific requests," said Neil Emmott, owner's representative. "[This includes] accommodating a game boat, including a helicopter hangar, adding a custom Jacuzzi, transforming the main deck lounge into a dedicated strategy meeting room, and integrating a Starlink antenna for improved connectivity."
This follows the launch of the second unit in the series, Five Oceans, owned by Tommy Allen.
Once delivered, she will assist his company Five Oceans Global Solutions, an organisation dedicated to marine conservation, resource management and safe, responsible deep-sea exploration.
Read More/53m Damen Yachting support vessel launched and named Five Oceans