Why Support Vessels Are Becoming Essential for Modern Superyacht Owners

To get a quote for your vessel from Keane Specialty Insurance: https://keanespecialty.com/get-a-quote/ Learn more about the Worldwide Superyacht Open Day (WOSA): www.wosa.co.uk Do not miss this video: https://youtu.be/Crnehu3QA9k?si=JuD3sSLl2RFn2uHX Support vessels, often called shadow yachts, have become one of the fastest-growing segments of the superyacht industry. Once reserved for only the very largest private fleets, they are now becoming an increasingly important part of how serious owners plan and operate their yachts. In this video, David explores why support vessels have evolved from a niche concept into an essential part of modern superyacht ownership. From carrying tenders, submarines, helicopters and expedition equipment to supporting scientific research, helicopter operations and global exploration, these remarkable vessels dramatically expand what owners can do on the water. David also examines some of the industry's most remarkable support vessels, including Damen Yachting's YS53 series, Bad Company Support, Five Oceans, Emotional and Rafter. He looks at Abeona, the 75-metre custom support vessel built by Damen Yachting to accompany Jeff Bezos' Koru, the world's largest sailing yacht built by Oceanco. The video also features Hodor, the famous support vessel to LONIAN, Gene Chaser, transformed into a floating scientific research laboratory by Dr. Jonathan Rothberg, and Wayfinder, the innovative support vessel originally developed alongside Breakthrough, the hydrogen-powered superyacht project. Along the way, David explains why support vessels have become increasingly important as owners cruise further afield and demand greater capability from their fleets. From the Incat Crowther ShadowCat concept and Nebula's enormous helicopter hangar to expedition cruising, scientific research and adventure sports, support vessels are no longer simply an optional extra—they are becoming an essential part of modern superyacht ownership. As David concludes, the question may no longer be whether a support vessel adds value, but whether today's most ambitious owners can achieve everything they want without one. Follow Yacht For Sale Blog on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yachtsforsaleblog/ Watch our YouTube channels: @YachtsForSaleBlog https://www.youtube.com/@YachtsForSaleBlog @YachtsForCharter https://www.youtube.com/@YachtsForCharter @YachtBuilders https://www.youtube.com/@YachtBuilders Partner channels: @MarineMaxOnline @FraserYachtsSuperyachtSales @NorthropJohnson Interested in becoming a yacht broker? https://www.yachtbrokermasterclass.com/ Join our free INSIDE INFO newsletter: https://www.yachtsforsaleblog.com/inside-info