Delivered in 2016 as part of the Damen YS 5009 series, Axis was designed and built by the Dutch shipyard for adventurous global cruising, with a robust steel hull and Damen’s signature axe bow profile.
Originally conceived as a true explorer’s support vessel, Axis combines rugged functionality with modern comfort. Her naval architecture and exterior design were developed entirely in-house by Damen Yachting, while the contemporary interiors were styled by Patrick Dupuis. The 462GT vessel accommodates up to eight guests across three staterooms, including two queen double cabins with Pullman berths and a four-berth cabin—all located on the main deck. Crew quarters accommodate up to 11 across four cabins.
Designed for expedition support and flexible operations, Axis offers vast exterior deck space with capabilities for helicopter operations, toy and submersible storage, and heavy-duty tender launching. A Heila crane with a 16-tonne lifting capacity, a dedicated hangar for a 3,700-kilogram helicopter, and a large clear main deck area make her ideal for exploration, research, or party-hosting alike.
Notable lifestyle amenities include a large saloon with a sit-up bar, TV lounge, and direct galley access, while the bridge deck’s aft “sky deck” offers alfresco dining with sweeping sea views under a retractable canvas shade. A versatile galley-garage setup on deck features a barbecue station protected by an overhang.
Powered by four 1,499hp Caterpillar diesel engines, Axis reaches a top speed of 20 knots, cruises comfortably at 12 knots, and boasts a transoceanic range of 5,000 nautical miles. With a relatively shallow draft of 3.6 metres and Quantum Marine stabilisers, she is as capable in shallow anchorages as she is on long-range voyages.
Take a tour of the Damen Yachting AXIS with YachtBuyer
YachtBuyer’s head boat tester, Jack Haines, filmed a full walkthrough video of Axis while she was at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) last year, offering an in-depth look at her layout, features, and onboard design. Be sure to watch our exclusive video and read the full written yacht review for further insights into what makes this model such a compelling buy in today’s market.
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ON BOARDDamen YS 5009 Review (2016 Edition)
At the time of her sale, Axis had a last known asking price of $16,000,000. Her new owner acquires one of the most versatile and proven support vessels on the market today, blending Damen’s engineering pedigree with go-anywhere capability and refined onboard living.
The Damen YS5009 is no longer in production, but it remains a sought-after model thanks to its proven capabilities and versatility. Two examples are currently available on the brokerage market: GENE CHASER, a 56-metre vessel built in 2020, featuring four Caterpillar engines (1,421hp each) and listed for €25,700,000 in Miami, Florida; and SHADOW, a 55-metre unit originally delivered in 2017 and refitted in 2023, powered by four Caterpillar engines producing a total of 6,000hp, asking €14,900,000 in Palm Beach, Florida. These offerings highlight the continued appeal of the YS5009 design, even after the end of its production run.
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