Into the build: Interview with Andrew Tree
by Damen Yachting 26 Sep 2022 06:16 PDT
Whilst it is Amels Limited Editions that have hit the yachting headlines over the last 17 years, it is Full Custom builds that first put the Amels name and legacy on the map.
A heritage shaped into an incredible fleet that continues to grow. We caught up with Andrew Tree from Superyacht Technical Services on his experience of supervising the build of an Amels Full Custom on behalf of the Owner.
Passion at all levels
For Andrew, his Amels Full Custom build experience came in the form of the recently delivered Custom Amels 78. Delivered in July, this 78-metre superyacht is the result of one of the core values of Damen Yachting - working together to build fully-custom yachts to the Owner's exact design and specifications. Following more than 40 delivered Amels Limited Editions, this is a yacht which saw an Owner's personal and ambitious vision brought to life. A project which came with a unique set of challenges, which were overcome with hard work, craftsmanship and a love of doing things the right way,
"The biggest takeaway for me is the passion of the whole work force at Amels. Everyone really wants the project to be a success, not only for the shipyard but for the Owner and the crew as well. There is real dedication at all levels of the company to deliver that to the Owner."
Full circle
Overseeing the build for the last 4 years meant a return to the shipyard where Andrew had previously been involved in a number of projects linked to the maritime DNA that runs through all the yachts built in Vlissingen. In many ways, going full circle back to where he was many years ago.
"Between 1992 and 1996, I was mostly involved in commercial and military projects, including two years here in Vlissingen in what was then the Royal Schelde Shipyard before becoming the home of Damen Yachting. Then several years later, I undertook my first Amels project. That was the 55-metre LA MASQUERADE when Amels were based in Makkum."
Determined dedication
Timely Owner's decisions are critical in any custom build, but it is also the flexible way a shipyard deals with questions and with the decision process that determine the success. Challenges were of course to be expected but how did this match up to Andrew's expectations?
"Challenges come in all forms. Specifically for Amels, after building and delivering over 40 platform series boats, there was a learning curve in going back to building Full Custom. But this was overcome and it's what made the project rewarding. It has been a very good experience, very enjoyable, looking back over the whole project."
Full collaboration
The design of the Full Custom meant that complete collaboration across all Amels departments was essential. Communication and cooperation to create something truly unique were key but how does that translate to end experience?
"It was very much a team build and certainly not a conflict. It was everyone wanting to come to the final goal of a beautiful yacht. As a team we got the system up and running and we came to the right result."
Milestone moment
With all projects there is always one standout moment - a key memory that those involved takeaway. Andrew talked us through his personal highlight?
"It was the launch in Galatz. This is the first project where I have seen a sideways launch on a slipway, the first one I have been involved in, and it was certainly a memorable moment. Quite emotional and I am lucky to have received a small replica of the axe, the little axe, that was used to chop a section of the rope.
Final word
With the build complete and the boat now enjoying life out on the oceans, Andrew gave us final verdict on.
"Building at Amels is building with a family business with a good family feel about it. Communication with the shipyard is excellent and there is a feeling of honesty, truth and respect from both sides".
Other Owners, representatives and clients can expect genuine passion in the build team when it comes to building a Full Custom with Amels."
“I hope to return here to Vlissingen. It has been a good experience and I really would like to do another new build project here with Amels.”
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