IT’S THAT REFIT TIME OF YEAR
Nothing illustrates the truth of the saying ‘Proper preparation prevents a pretty poor performance’ better than the steps taken before entering a refit yard. ONBOARD takes a look at the top facilities for this coming refit season
For captains, senior crew and yacht managers, a refit period represents both opportunity and challenge. A well-planned yard stay can refresh a vessel, update systems and enhance performance, but without the right approach it can quickly become a stressful chapter.
The key lies in preparation, communication and building a constructive relationship with the chosen yard so the process unfolds as calmly and efficiently as possible.
Preparation begins well before the yacht arrives at the facility. Detailed planning, clear task lists, and an honest assessment of priorities are vital.
Senior crew should engage with managers and owners to establish what must be achieved during the period, distinguishing between essential and desirable works, and have a clear commitment on budgets for each phase.
This early clarity prevents scope creep and ensures time, budget and resources are directed towards what matters most. Gathering documentation, service histories and technical data before arrival streamlines the yard’s onboarding process and avoids wasted time once the yacht is hauled out. Once in the yard, communication becomes the most vital tool in achieving a relaxed and productive refit. Open channels between captain, chief engineer, project manager, and yard supervisors set the tone.
The most successful refits are those where expectations are discussed frankly from the outset, progress meetings are scheduled regularly, and reporting is consistent.
Whether it’s a daily walk-through or a weekly review, this rhythm of dialogue ensures no surprises, and builds the trust that allows both crew and contractors to work in harmony.
Equally important is the transparency around budget and timelines. Senior crew and managers must feel confident that costs are tracked in real time, with estimates compared against actual spend and any variations flagged immediately.
When yards provide regular financial updates alongside technical reports, it fosters confidence that the project is firmly under control.
This discipline also allows managers to keep owners accurately informed, avoiding last-minute disputes or unpleasant financial shocks.
Another aspect often overlooked is the crew’s own experience during refit. A positive yard period is not only about the yacht, it’s about keeping morale high among those who live and work onboard.
Yards that provide practical crew facilities, from lounges and gyms to simple conveniences like reliable internet and laundry services, make an enormous difference. Crew who feel supported and comfortable are more likely to remain engaged, which in turn benefits the whole process.
Ultimately, the goal of any refit is to emerge with a yacht that is safer, fresher, and more capable, delivered on time and on budget.
Achieving this relies not just on technical expertise, but on a culture of communication and respect between all parties.
When senior crew and yacht managers foster collaborative planning, encourage transparency, and place value on both the work and the people involved, the result is not just a successful refit, but a yard period that is remembered as efficient, professional, and even enjoyable.
STP SHIPYARD PALMA
MALLORCA, SPAIN
The ‘open shipyard’ and best location for the refit up to 1.000tn in Palma de Mallorca. STP Shipyard Palma is one of Europe’s top refit and repair facilities. Located in Palma de Mallorca, it offers 162,500 m. of technical area and can accommodate vessels up to 120 metres long and 1,000 tonnes in weight. Its open shipyard model, unique in the industry, allows clients to choose their own contractors, giving them greater control over the refit process. With all trades and services available on-site, this approach leads to better cost management and time efficiency. Since its inception, STP has grown significantly. With over 8,500 yachts serviced, 3,000 professionals, and 600 contractors, it has become a key player in the superyacht sector. STP has helped position Mallorca as an international hub for high-quality, safe and efficient refit and repair services. Thanks to a major expansion, STP has increased its operational efficiency, is now able to accommodate more yachts, and has improved workflow through reorganised work areas. Fully aware of the importance of sustainability, STP has integrated energy-efficient solutions into its expansion project. The installation of solar panels and energy storage systems will slash the yard’s carbon footprint and help preserve the environment. Not only will this ambitious investment benefit STP, but also the local economy as a whole. The creation of new jobs, the increase in economic activity and the stature of Mallorca as a first-class yachting destination are just some of the expected benefits.
www.stp-palma.com
IMM
THE CARIBBEAN
IMM – European-Standard Refit and Technical Expertise in the Caribbean. At International Marine Management (IMM), they deliver full-service refit and technical support at a European standard, based in the heart of the Caribbean. Since IMM’s story began in 2007, its unique service offering has grown enormously. The company was built on a foundation of technical know-how, laser focus, authenticity and strong organisation. At IMM Guadeloupe, they operate a full-service facility with a 700-ton floating dock and 200 metres of deep-water alongside berthing. The skilled team includes master riggers, fibreglass and carbon technicians, class-certified welders, and specialists in yacht-standard painting, teak, and technical systems across all fields. In Puerto Rico, the team are expanding capacity with a 2,000-ton floating dock and a 200-metre covered graving dock – the first of its kind on the US side of the Atlantic. This new facility will be game changing for global refit, capable of handling the world’s largest vessels to the highest standards. In St. Maarten, the IMM experienced project managers oversee complex works of every scale, transforming downtime into efficient maintenance, shortening future technical stops, and maximising time available for charter or private use. For global operations, IMM A.WAY brings bespoke refit and technical expertise directly to the clients, delivering maintenance and refit services where and when needed. The companies values – passion, expertise, honesty, teamwork, and service, guide everything the team does. IMM exists to serve the vessel, the crew and the owner.
www.imm-yachting.com
ORAMS
NEW ZEALAND
In the heart of central Auckland, Orams Marine has created a world-class marine precinct designed to meet the needs of superyachts. Having operated on the site since 1984, they have created ultra-modern, purpose-built facilities with 30 specialist marine services on site for a one-stop marine hub. Key facilities include an 820T travelift, 60m work sheds, ten 90m marina berths, dedicated workshops, crew amenities and yacht agency services. Orams offers a broad range of on-site expertise, including boat building, cabinet making, engineering, fabrication and painting. Supported by a highly experienced project management team and a reputation for technical excellence, the yard has delivered award-winning refits and established itself as the pre-eminent superyacht hub in the South Pacific. A recent highlight includes hauling 81m Sea Eagle, the world’s largest aluminium sailing yacht. This project is a true showcase of New Zealand’s capabilities, Orams Marine’s expertise, innovation and world-class infrastructure – ready to take on the most ambitious superyacht challenges. As lifelong ocean lovers, Orams Marine has a keen interest in protecting the environment and the health of sea which surrounds the facility. From building sustainable technology into the infrastructure, to keeping on top of new and better ways to carry out the work within their premises, the company view their approach to sustainability as a constantly evolving practice. To learn more or begin planning your South Pacific yard period, contact Richard Low at Orams Marine.
www.oramsmarine.co.nz
BAE SYSTEMS
USA
Situated just two miles from the Atlantic Ocean on the St. Johns River in northeast Florida, BAE Systems boasts deep-water access, unlimited air draft, and the capacity to haul out vessels up to 25,000 tons. They refit, maintain, modernise and overhaul yachts with the highest degree of expertise, professionalism, confidentiality and focus on safety. They have the location, capabilities and personnel to service the unique mechanical and engineering needs of yachts. Accommodating the world’s largest yachts, BAE Systems maintains the highest standards for cleanliness, security and transparency. Other highlights include: secure 101-acre site, land-level facility of four acres, pier and bulkhead repair berths totalling more than 3,000 feet (or 942 metres), and covered workshops totalling more than 135,000 square feet (or 12,542 square metres). In addition, the North Florida facility includes environmentally-controlled indoor shops for machining, pipe repair, carpentry, sheet metal fabrication and insulation. They also have a self-contained, environmentally controlled blast and paint facility; a fully-automated steel surface preparation and coating facility; and a steel fabrication facility with numerically controlled plasma cutting system. Hull maintenance, engineering plant services and topside painting are their specialities. The services, performance and personnel define BAE Systems as a primary partner for their yacht customers. Anchored in safety, secured in quality – BAE Systems is the simplified solution.
www.baesystems.com/en-us/product/superyacht
WEST ISTANBUL MARINA
TURKEY
What sets West Istanbul Marina apart from other refit destinations is that it is not just a shipyard. The marina offers three things that one would not expect to accompany a yacht refit centre: a customs gate, a beach, and a complex recreational facility. West Istanbul Marina’s expansive hardstand area is prepared to service up to 200 yachts with 11 hangars, a 75-ton and 700-ton travel lift, a 300-ton boat mover and a dedicated team of experts with decades of experience. The facility can safely accommodate vessels up to 80m with its climate-controlled workshops providing the ideal environment for precision engineering and refit works. One of the most notable refits at the facility includes a complete paint job on an 85m Lürssen superyacht, which remained in the water throughout the five-month restoration process setting a precedent as the first ever marina to carry out such a complex undertaking in Turkey. Services are comprehensive and delivered by certified in-house teams supported by an international network of subcontractors. Core technical capabilities include: mechanical and engine works, electrical maintenance and repair, hull and structural works such as osmosis treatment, blasting, antifouling, painting and coating, complete refinishing, fairing, protective coatings, and polishing, plumbing and HVAC, as well as carpentry and interior design. Every project is managed under strict quality control, with transparent reporting and timely delivery. Combining heavy-duty infrastructure with skilled craftsmanship, West Istanbul Marina is well worth a visit.
www.westistanbulmarina.com
HUISFIT BY ROYAL HUISMAN
THE NETHERLANDS
Royal Huisman is principally known as a builder of fine custom yachts, but the same standards of expertise and craftsmanship are equally accessible for superyacht refits. Every yacht requires a refit and refurbishment from time to time. Huisfit in Amsterdam offers everything from classification-driven refit and maintenance work to the re-arrangement and refurbishment of superyacht interiors. In recent years the team has proven to be a specialist for various yacht conversions, rebuilds and green solutions. Huisfit has a comprehensive range of infrastructure and facilities that rival any to be found within the industry. State of the art tooling and equipment can be found in all the manufacturing and construction departments including CNC controlled machine shops that enable perfectly matched and detailed repairs or replacements to be fabricated from the widest range of marine quality materials including wood, aluminium, stainless steel, GRP and carbon composite. Huisfit can accommodate any motor or sailing yacht, up to 100m+ / 330ft+. Facilities include: berthing at deep water quay for in-water-work at non-tidal location with convenient access to the North Sea. Three heated main halls (for length up to 68m / 223ft and can be extended semi-permanently). Workshops (2,300 sqm / 24,800 sqft) for welding / construction, joinery, hydraulics and electrics. Heated, dry storage (2,000 sqm / 21,500 sqft): locked and divided per project. Crew facilities include offices (175 sqm / 1900 sqft), meeting rooms, support and accommodation with houses and apartments at the shipyard.
www.huisfit.com
PENDENNIS
FALMOUTH, UK
Pendennis operates a custom superyacht build and refit facility in Falmouth, UK, capable of undertaking substantial restoration and remodelling projects or routine class/flag refit works. Founded in 1988, the company has built over 30 bespoke projects and conducted refit works on a further 300 vessels. Over 470 highly skilled tradespeople and support staff are based at the Falmouth facility, from CAD teams to exterior outfitters, joiners, electricians, engineers, fabricators and specialist painters. Three purpose-built construction halls (2 x 90m and 1 x 45m) and a flexible 150m undercover dry dock are supported by purpose-built modern workshops and offices. An enclosed non-tidal wet basin can accommodate yachts up to 100m LOA, designed to provide direct deep water seaward access to the yard for haul-out, and facilitating short refit works. Pendennis’ project and trade managers work alongside the owner’s team to control deadlines and budgets throughout. The quality of their work stands the test of time with a high percentage of repeat visits for yachts requiring refit works taking advantage of the company’s highly in-house skilled tradespeople, global network and impressive modern, accessible facilities. Breathing new life into vessels has become a hallmark of Pendennis, all the way from the remodelling and extension of a yacht’s outdoor entertainment space, to the full reconfiguration of the interior layout to allow for an owner’s specific requirements. Usually running alongside technical upgrades, paint and survey requirements, the possibilities to enhance clients’ onboard experience on their newly purchased or existing yacht are endless.
www.pendennis.com
ROYAL HAKVOORT SHIPYARD
THE NETHERLANDS
For more than 100 years, the Hakvoort family has been handcrafting custom boats in the picturesque Dutch harbour town of Monnickendam. Today, Klaas and Albert are the fourth generation at the helm of this remarkable shipyard, which received its Royal designation in 2020. Abel, the fifth generation, is already in training, preparing to take the mantle. The Hakvoort family shifted focus in 1982 to sophisticated steel and aluminium yachts and have since earned a formidable reputation for custom-built yachts in all styles. Blending a rich boatbuilding heritage with forward-thinking innovation, they offer a rare proposition: luxurious custom superyachts from 30 to 65 metres in length and expansive refit facilities and expertise. Spanning both sides of the 50-metre mark, they partner with renowned designers, naval architects, artisans, and engineers to craft yachts recognised worldwide for their quality, reliability and beauty. Monnickendam, which lies just a few miles north of Amsterdam, has a grand maritime tradition dating back to the 1350s. A yard has existed on the site of today’s Hakvoort facilities since the 1700s, and the shipyard remains a cornerstone of the town – a place that owners and captains come to love during their build journeys. Each project is bespoke and a testament to the Royal Hakvoort way: from precision steel, aluminium, and stainless-steel fabrication to world-class engineering, machinery installation, and interior craftsmanship. The highly skilled craftsmen combine traditional techniques with cutting-edge technologies, working closely with world-renowned Dutch marine suppliers to deliver yachts of exceptional calibre.
www.hakvoort.com
KM YACHTBUILDERS
THE NETHERLANDS
KM Yachtbuilders is a full-service shipyard specialising in custom new build, refit, repair, and maintenance of yachts up to 100 feet. With over 25 years of experience, they help owners make well-informed decisions about their projects, from smart upgrades to full-scale new builds. What sets KM Yachtbuilders apart is the in-house expertise. All disciplines are carried out at the yard in Makkum: engineering, aluminium construction, carpentry, electrical systems, mechanical work, painting, rigging, and launching. They combine traditional craftsmanship with the latest technologies to ensure your yacht is seaworthy, safe and ready for years to come – whether you’re preparing for a world voyage or enhancing onboard comfort. By having everything under one roof, the team maintain full control over quality, timing and detail, essential for both complex refits and custom new builds. With one contact person and a dedicated team of more than 60 professionals, they focus on delivering not only excellent results, but also a smooth and transparent process from start to finish. Their yachts are built for real-world conditions, and many are sailing in remote and demanding regions, including the Arctic. That’s why reliability, craftsmanship and seaworthiness are at the core of everything they do. Whether restoring a classic or launching a new explorer yacht, they deliver Dutch quality and thoughtful service every step of the way.
www.kmyachtbuilders.com
ADRIATIC 42
MONTENEGRO
Adriatic 42 is a premier superyacht refit and repair facility located in the heart of Montenegro’s Boka Bay, one of the Mediterranean’s most sheltered natural harbours. Built on the heritage of the former Bijela Shipyard and centuries of maritime tradition, the yard blends master craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology to deliver precision, discretion and excellence. ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified, Adriatic 42 ensures the highest standards in quality management and environmental responsibility. Its world-class facilities include a 180 x 34 m floating dock, 720 t travel hoist, 6,000 t synchrolift, 8,000 sqm workshops and 100,000 sqm hard standing. Services range from general maintenance and teak deck work to major refits, surface treatment, paintwork and stabilizer or rudder overhauls, all supported 24/7. Noteable projects during last years season (of which there were over 25) included; 43.3 metre Ice Lady, the 49.9 metre Endeavour 2, and the 38.6 metre Jetsetter. A regular visitor to the yard has also been the 106m Oceanco Black Pearl, in fact, back in 2022 it was one of the first yachts to visit the yard. Other examples are the 50m Kalizma – the 118-year-old motor yacht came to the yard for a maintenance upgrade and had her three main engines and two diesel generators completely overhauled, with the team facing the challenge of limited space onboard. Easily accessible via Tivat, Dubrovnik and Podgorica airports, Adriatic 42 is surrounded by renowned marinas like Porto Montenegro, luxury amenities and Montenegro’s rich cultural and scenic attractions, making it both a service hub and a destination.
www.adriatic42.com
