Dan Lee joins Apache 555 offshore racing team

Award-winning boatbuilder Dan Lee has joined the Apache 555 offshore powerboat racing team as Hull Specialist, marking a significant step in the return of one of offshore racing’s most recognisable boats.

Based in the Cotswolds, Lee is known for his expertise in wooden boat construction and restoration. He has also built a strong following through his YouTube channel, which has attracted more than 50,000 subscribers and over 7 million views.

Apache 555 was originally campaigned by David Hagan and remains closely associated with an important period in offshore racing. Now under the custodianship of Peter Bonham Christie, the boat is being prepared for a new race programme that aims to respect and continue that legacy.

With two months until the team’s first race, the programme will centre on testing, evaluation and development. Lee will oversee repair, maintenance and optimisation of the boat’s wooden hull, while also assisting with driveline setup to support performance improvements.

Planned work includes redevelopment of the hull’s running surface to improve efficiency, stability and handling at speed. The boat will also undergo an aesthetic restoration, returning it to its original dark blue and gold racing colours.

Lee has extensive experience restoring classic British race and ski boats, often bringing craft back from severely degraded condition to award-winning standard.