Amels Yachts

The Netherlands’ strong seafaring tradition has spawned and supported superyacht builder Amels, which is part of the Damen Group of shipbuilding companies.

History of Amels Yachts

Amels draws its heritage and its skilled artisans from the town of Vlissingen, where it is located, a shipbuilding centre since the 14th century. Over the years, countless naval ships, submarines and transatlantic liners have launched from the island town, which is home to both Amels and its parent, Damen.

Founded in 1918, the Amels shipyard began specialising in luxury superyachts in 1982 with the launch of the 48m Katalina. Another turning point came in 2005, when Amels’ construction of the 50m Tigre d’Or, the world’s first MCA-compliant certified superyacht. That yacht was the genesis of Amels’ “semi-custom” Limited Editions series of superyachts, designed by Tim Heywood, which are built on proven, blueprinted hull-and-engineering platforms from 55m to 83m.

Notable Launches

Amels’ largest motor yacht to date is the 75m Here Comes The Sun designed by Tim Heywood, which launched in 2016. The Redman Whitely Dixon-designed 73.69m Ilona, launched in 2004, also won plaudits for her graceful lines, while in 2013, the 60m Amels Limited Editions 199 Event attracted worldwide attention for her dramatic exterior.

Specialisations

Amels’ two shipyards in Vlissingen include extensive, climate-controlled covered dry docks capable of housing yachts up to 200m-plus. In addition to building new luxury superyachts, Amels also offers total refit services. In conjunction with Damen, it also builds Yacht Support vessels to carry a superyacht’s tenders and toys.