Damen Yachting returns as title sponsor for 2024 Explorer Yachts Summit

Damen Yachting will return as the title sponsor for this year’s Explorer Yachts Summit (EYS), which will be held at the Yacht Club de Monaco on 13 November. Hosted in collaboration with ExplorerYachts.com, the event is the only international summit dedicated solely to the explorer yacht sector. Tickets are available now. 

The Dutch conglomerate – which also builds Amels superyachts – is an industry leader in expedition yacht design. The first two luxury SeaXplorer superyachts La Datcha and Anawa first hit the water in 2020 and not only revolutionised the explorer sector but gave rise to the iconic 58.3-metre custom new-build Pink Shadow, delivered last year.

Damen Yachting has now evolved its range into the forward-thinking Xplorer which is now offered in a number of different sizes and options. According to BOATPro, the 60-metre Xplorer 60 has two units in build and one available for delivery next spring and is the perfect blend of practicality, versatility and luxury.

Continuing this theme is the new Xplorer 80 range. Launched at this year's Palm Beach International Boat Show, this 80-metre vessel offers a wide variety of interior and exterior configuration options to suit all tastes and needs and carries all the Xplorer trademarks, including the open bow, observation lounge and enclosed wheelhouse. Completing the offering is Xplorer 105, a showcase of the future of expedition yachting in terms of technicality and design. 

Damen Yachting also specialises in a range of support vessels from 45 to 75 metres which opens up a world of possibilities for the adventurous. These multipurpose and customisable platforms are the workhorse of any expedition; perfect for carrying tenders, toys, aircrafts and supplies or even hosting events and can be used to support any type of mission, be it scientific, conservation, relief or treasure hunting. Along with crew accommodation, they can also be used for guest overflow or to accommodate specialist staff for certain missions.

"We are delighted to once again be sponsoring the Explorer Yacht Summit," said Damen Yachting’s marketing manager Sarah Flavell. "Not only does it reflect our dedication to this important, growing sector, it also aligns with our take on understanding the importance of ensuring there is versatility within a product portfolio and the right resources are available to meet all (explorer) yachting needs.

Whilst we can lead in developing that portfolio, we also acknowledge that to truly understand everything about those needs, we need to learn, listen and liaise with those that experience the many sides of explorer yachting first hand. EYS creates that very platform and the dedicated and focused nature of the event allows for valuable insights and plenty of explorer inspiration. “

The summit will take an in-depth look at aspects of the explorer yacht sector, with owners, captains and industry experts sharing their insights. Panel discussions will range from the Northwest Passage to the problem of security and piracy in the modern age. There will also be presentations on the effects of climate change on marine traffic and fireside chats with owners such as Erik Vonk, owner of Scintilla Maris, who converted a 45.7-metre fishing trawler into an expedition yacht.

"Each year we see the order book for explorers growing – it's a sector of the industry that is outpacing all others," said BOAT International’s editor-in-chief Stewart Campbell. "The Explorer Yachts Summit is the best opportunity in the calendar to examine the amazing potential of this part of the industry, and we're delighted to welcome back Damen Yachting as a key partner in this endeavour."