Captain’s Call
In Conversation with Captain Khalil Bethel Amels 60 MEMORIES
In June 2025, build complete, the Amels 60 MEMORIES departed for Ibiza ready for a busy summer and ambitious charter schedule. We caught up with Captain Khalil Bethel to find out more about his time at the shipyard and how it was to work with the Amels team.
"We had a lot of foresight thanks to the yard’s experience when it came to things that the Owner would appreciate.”
Watch the video to see the full interview with Captain Khalil Bethel
First Impressions
Captain Khalil stepped into the build of the Amels 60 MEMORIES somewhat late in the process arriving at the yard on the day of the launch. The 60-metre Amels Limited Editions was literally coming out of the shed as he arrived at the yard so it was full steam ahead from day one!
"My first impressions were great. A lot of small details, especially with the carpentry, done so well and not missed or rushed, as does happen at some yards. The Project Management team and the actual workers on the ground, they did a really good job. Most things went very seamlessly. We had no issues when it came to minor changes. And we had a lot of foresight thanks to the yard’s experience when it came to things that the Owner would appreciate but that he himself might not have considered."
True Teamwork
Managing the Owner's requests together with the shipyard, even at this late stage, was a key part of Captain Khalil's role. One that meant that smooth collaboration with the shipyard and all teams involved was essential.
"The Project Manager ensured that we were updated daily with any changes that they had, regarding scheduling. Our team would also update the Project Team with Owner Supply items and anything that we would require the yard to be involved with. And they did very well with keeping it together. True teamwork. For example, the shipyard pre-planned for an adaptation for Starlink to be integrated, but we made some changes to align with the Owner’s wishes and to make sure there was nothing that could interfere with the antennas. We reached a solution quickly."
The Crew of Amels 60 MEMORIES together
with Damen Yachting’s Commercial Executive
Jan van Hogerwou and Project Manager Joppe
Oste as well as Rob Moran at the shipyard
following the Naming Ceremony.
Custom Touches
In-keeping with the Amels Limited Editions concept, a number of customisations were also made to MEMORIES in the final build stage, overseen by Captain Khalil. A process that added value to his time and experience with the shipyard and Amels build team, delivering a great result for the Owner.
"The Gym was very important for the Owner. So, we made sure to include everything that he would appreciate and we worked very closely with the carpentry team to make sure the installations happened seamlessly. There are about six machines which allow a full body workout that you wouldn’t really find in a proper gym on shore."
Making the Difference
Having worked on other yachts, there were a number of elements that stood out for Captain Khalil as unique to his experience at Damen Yachting,
"I would say there was a lot of involvement from the teams that did the luxury interior and also the Crew areas. They really took the time to explain the processes. A lot of companies or shipyards don’t offer to give that kind of insight. Same for many things on board. It helped the Crew with operations because they gave us the working method behind the equipment that’s here. That helps when you’re operating the machinery or explaining something to the Owner."
Onboard Operations
When asked about how operations on board had been since the maiden voyage and first charter, Captain Khalil came back with one key word: easy!
"It's been easy! There’s a clear demarcation between guest areas and crew working spaces. At anchor, the Owner really enjoys using the Gym with the transom door open and a great view. The clever layout means that all our work as Crew happens on the opposite side of the yacht so if we have to move or set up, we can do so without interrupting him."
Building an Amels
Based on his experience of the build and his time at the shipyard, Captain Khalil was keen to pass on his final words on what other Captains and crew can expect when doing a new build with Damen Yachting.
"Everyone is very approachable, and they’re very happy to involve you. Not only with business, but also in a social aspect. They do a great job at planning events that involve Captains and Crew. Workwise, they have productive meetings, giving regular progress updates. I’d be happy to go back."