A new titan has entered the water in the Netherlands, marking a historic moment for one of the world's most esteemed shipyards. Dutch builder Amels has officially launched Project Tanzanite, a 120-metre (394-foot) Full Custom superyacht that now stands as the largest vessel ever constructed by the yard. The milestone event saw the colossal yacht floated in the main dock at the Amels shipyard in Vlissingen City, signaling the start of her final and most intricate outfitting stage.
The launch is a pivotal moment in a build process that spans multiple countries and requires immense logistical precision. Project Tanzanite is not just a vessel; it is a statement of capability and a testament to the enduring strength of the large superyacht market. With an imposing internal volume of 6,083 GT, her scale is difficult to overstate, placing her firmly in the upper echelon of the global superyacht fleet.
A New Benchmark for Amels
For Damen Yachting, the parent company of the Amels brand, Project Tanzanite represents a new benchmark in custom construction. While Amels is renowned for its highly successful Limited Editions semi-custom series, this Full Custom project underscores the yard's capacity to deliver entirely bespoke, one-of-a-kind creations at the very largest end of the market.
The journey of this superyacht began at Damen Yachting's specialized hull-building facility in Galati, Romania. After the initial launch of the steel hull and superstructure, she was transported to the Netherlands, arriving in Vlissingen in June 2023 to begin the next phase of her construction. Now, having been floated, the yacht will remain at the main shipyard for a comprehensive period of final outfitting, with a scheduled completion date in 2026.
This final stage is a monumental undertaking. Over the course of the next year, more than a thousand individuals—from Damen Yachting's in-house team to specialist craftspeople from the global supply chain—will work to bring the yacht to life. This phase involves the installation of all technical systems, luxury interiors, deck furniture, and the application of the flawless paintwork and exterior finishing that are hallmarks of an Amels build.
An Elite Design Collaboration
The commanding exterior profile of Project Tanzanite comes from the drawing boards of the legendary Espen Øino. His Monaco-based studio is responsible for many of the world's most iconic superyachts, and his involvement signals a project of immense prestige. While specific design details remain under wraps, the initial visuals reveal a powerful, well-proportioned silhouette with a strong bow and multiple deck levels that promise extensive guest areas.
The technical foundation for Øino's design is a robust naval architecture platform developed entirely by the Damen Yachting engineering team. This in-house expertise ensures that the yacht's performance, stability, and seakeeping capabilities are engineered to the highest standards, providing a solid and reliable platform for its ambitious design.
Key specifications for the 120-metre Amels Full Custom include:
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Length Overall: 120.00 metres (394 ft)
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Gross Tonnage: 6,083 GT
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Exterior Design: Espen Øino
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Naval Architecture: Damen Yachting
The Confidential Nature of Full Custom
As is customary with builds of this personal nature, the details of Project Tanzanite's interior design and onboard features remain strictly confidential. A Full Custom project is, by definition, a singular vision brought to life for a specific owner. This level of discretion protects the owner's privacy and ensures that the final reveal will be a truly unique global debut.
The sheer volume of 6,083 GT suggests that the interior spaces will be nothing short of spectacular, with ample room for amenities that are only possible on a vessel of this magnitude. The final layout and aesthetic will remain a closely guarded secret until her delivery, building considerable anticipation within the industry.
Looking Ahead to 2026
The launch of Project Tanzanite is more than just a procedural step; it is a powerful declaration of intent from Amels and Damen Yachting. It solidifies their position as leaders in the 100-metre-plus segment and showcases their ability to manage highly complex, fully custom projects from conception to completion. As the outfitting process now begins in earnest in Vlissingen, the industry will be watching closely.
The successful collaboration between a world-class design studio and a technically proficient shipyard is the cornerstone of any great superyacht. With Project Tanzanite, Amels has assembled a team poised to deliver a vessel that will undoubtedly become a landmark in its prestigious fleet.
NAVIS will continue to follow the progress of Project Tanzanite as it nears completion. Stay tuned for further updates on this landmark superyacht.
