what does refitting a yacht mean

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The Yacht Refit Guide: Tips and Realities

Although owning a yacht is a fantastic pleasure, these majestic ships also need a lot of care, which necessitates frequent trips to the yard for refit or maintenance.

A yacht refit is a significant undertaking that needs excellent management, budgeting and solid scheduling of the participating crew and contractors, whether performing a comprehensive overhaul or simply a few cosmetic and system modifications.

What is a yacht refit?

In accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines, the team will:

• oversee every stage of construction
• keep an eye on the technical and financial performance of the contractors
• plan all surveys
• handle all paperwork related to classification, flag, and technical regulations
• and eventually launch and deliver the boat that you need and want.

Experience in yacht refit project is very important

The team has a wealth of expertise dealing with the daily challenges associated with operating large yachts. Choose a project management team has the qualification to offer a full range of yacht management services, offered in a variety of packages in order to suit one owner’s demands. 

What types of yacht refit can be done?

Examples of refits of yachts refit that can be done :

• Restoring: preserving an old wooden boat
• Modernizing: Using modern systems, technologies, and styling
• Customizing: Making changes to the yacht according to the owner’s desires and wants
• Modifying: Modifying the yacht to win a competition.
• Replacing or adding: Adding new equipment or replacing the old deck with a new one.

How to start a yacht refitting project?

Start by considering the main purpose of the work and what you hope to gain from the renovation. The main works will determine the main refit timeframe and the facilities required, but additional wish lists can typically be accommodated.

By distinguishing necessary work items from those that don’t take priority, you may clearly define the work’s scope and order of importance.

Prioritize anything that interferes with a vessel’s ability to operate safely. Additionally, anything that compromises the integrity of the vessel, such as exterior paint coatings, tank coatings, water leaks, etc., should not be put off since if they are they will wind up being very expensive to fix and will ultimately reduce the asset’s overall worth.

Any significant project that will affect the critical route needs to be prioritized in addition to any required tasks. For instance, they can be full paint, teak decking, interior renovation, or additions. This will constitute the procedure’ initial step in the quotation. The second stage consists of optional tasks that can be completed in the allotted time.

Understand the owner’s requirements in terms of cost, time, and quality. If quality is a given, then putting deadlines first might jeopardize the budget and timetable.

Know the Resources of your shipyard before refitting your yacht

Each shipyard has its own specialities, and they are not all made equal. If the shipyard is taken away from its core capabilities, we cannot expect a wonderful outcome. It can be beneficial to choose the shipyards you use with care.

A very frequent mistake is to assume that anyone working in the refit industry can guarantee the resources required to complete the job. A second possible mistake is to neglect to confirm this crucial detail. Once they obtain the firm contract, many of these setups — effectively the retrofit brokers — quickly look for subcontractors to carry out the work on their behalf and frequently offer extremely low prices. They frequently provide simple amenities, and sometimes not even these.

Keep On Budget : The Hardest Task of a Yacht Refit

You must constantly compare the amount of work completed to the percentage of money spent if you want to stay within your budget. However, it takes actual experience to realize that 80% of the budget has already been spent and only 50% of the work has been completed. Project management software is good at calculating how much money has been spent thus far versus the budget.

From the beginning of the job, the captain and shipyard project manager often meet. They confirm and agree on how much has been accomplished. The sooner you notice the slippage, the earlier you can remediate the steps. Quantifiable standards are necessary to assess the degree of completion, and they are crucial for projects involving paint and cosmetics.

Find a yard that will fix prices for work items so that they take on the financial risk and there are no hidden fees.

Get the Insurance and Firefighters Ready in Case Your Refit Goes Wrong

Insurance for shipyards is essential. To accommodate lateness, financial overruns, or any damage incurred in the shipyard, the contract’s specifics must be unquestionably clear. Check your policy to see if it covers situations involving “hot work,” such as welding, as some do not.

Similarly, due to the nature of the work, fires can break out at shipyards. Thus, check that the shipyard has top-notch firefighting capabilities. Conduct staff fire drills on a regular basis. Also, insist on crew and 24/7 watch schedule vigilance throughout the yacht refurbishment.

Read also : YACHT INSURANCE: THE DEFINITIVE OWNER’S GUIDE

Organize the Crew For Your Refit

During the shipbuilding period, strategically organize your workers. Different crew departments are subject to varying workloads during shipyard seasons. The interior team has more downtime because they are primarily in charge of preventing damage to the yacht throughout the refurbishment and performing stock takes, etc. 

The engineers, on the other hand, are typically busiest during this time of year. During a shipyard period, stewardesses, deckhands, and chefs, frequently have free time to attend professional training programs. Typically, the project manager for your shipyard will know about it. They can tell you how many crew members you will need to help do the job with the team onboard.

Expect Delay in almost every refitting projects

The truth is that there are a ton of excuses why you might not be ready on the scheduled day. When planning, take this into account and provide backup plans. Add at least 10% to account for unforeseen circumstances.

We work in real life. You can only apply so many coats of varnish each day or each week. If it is an international shipment, you may also have to consider the delay of parts. Further, you have to take care of the holdup of international shipments in customs, or the fabrication of a part when one cannot be found.  

Read also : Buying a Yacht : The Frequently Asked Question

How much does a yacht refit cost?

The price of refitting a boat varies greatly, depending upon what renovations you need. A comprehensive retrofit for a superyacht (one that is longer than 120 feet) can go from $300,000 to $1 million. The price of retrofitting a 60-foot personal yacht ranges from $60,000 to $250,000.

To only renew the rigging of a 50 feet boat, the yacht refit may cost only about $20,000. If you want to change the look by replacing the wood, paint or restrain it, the cost will go up to $300,000.

When picking the best refit provider, there are a lot of other aspects to take into account in addition to the services the yard provides.

For instance, determining a yard’s reputation and financial standing are crucial. After all, how can you be certain that they will be able to fulfil – and surpass – your expectations if they aren’t highly recommended by other customers?

In order to establish a long-term relationship with the vessel, investigate whether a yard offers competitive pricing. It makes sense to wonder if potential clients are dependable partners if it doesn’t want to enter into a mutually beneficial business partnership with them.

Clients should prefer a shipyard that aims to build a long-term connection with the vessel and provides ongoing value beyond a single yard period.

At Windward Travels, we provide all refit works for sailing or motor vessels – short- or long-term contracts. Get in touch for recurrent or preventive maintenance such as careening, revisions and class visits. Contact the team for daily repairs such as a normal repair or fixing a technical problem. Whether it is mechanical breakdowns, piping, hull damage, air conditioning, home automation, call us during emergencies at any time of the year.

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Yacht Refit: A Guide

Yacht ownership is a great pleasure, but these magnificent vessels also require a great deal of upkeep, with regular periods in the yard required for yacht refit or maintenance. Whether conducting a major overhaul or just making a few cosmetic and systems updates, a yacht refit is a large undertaking, requiring excellent scheduling and budgeting, as well as excellent management of participating crew and contractors.

Finding a highly experienced, professionally run shipyard will go a long way towards heading off costly delays or possible conflict between the yacht and the shipyard, but there’s a great deal the captain and crew can do to ensure a successful, speedy yacht refit yard period.

1. Once the captain and crew have drawn up an extremely thorough yacht refit yard work list, submit the work list to numerous shipyards for quotes. Be wary of jumping on the cheapest quote, drill down into why the quote is lower. Ask around for shipyard recommendations, and be quick to note if the shipyard quote process has any errors, is revised numerous times, or simply doesn’t reflect good customer service.

2. The process must be organized by a strong project manager who is there from the start to the finish of the yard period. This is most often the captain, but can also be a trusted external project manager, and the yacht management company may also be involved. The yacht’s engineer is also heavily involved in the shipyard project management, normally holding the 2IC role onboard. The shipyard will also assign their own project manager to collaborate with the yacht’s designated person throughout the yacht’s refit.

3. Budgeting is of extreme importance. Yacht refit budget overruns are common during shipyard periods – partly due to unknown faults being uncovered during the work, but also due to poor time management or installation problems and delays. Work should be meticulously budgeted, with a running total with breakdowns to indicate where the budget has blown out (and where possible efficiencies could be gained.)

4. Shipyard insurance is imperative. The contract details must be rock-solid to apportion where liability falls for lateness, budget overruns, or any damage caused in the shipyard. Be sure to check for conditions involving ‘hot work’ such as welding, as some policies do not cover this.

5. Fires have occasionally been known to happen in shipyards due to the nature of the work, so ensure that the shipyard’s firefighting capabilities are top-notch, carry out crew fire drills extremely regularly, and insist on crew vigilance and a 24/7 watch schedule throughout the yacht refit.

6. Yacht refits can run over-time due to unexpected complications, so be aware of this when planning any charter bookings, yacht transport, or boss trips around this time.

7. Organize your crew wisely during the shipyard time. Shipyard periods exert different demands on different crew departments. For the engineers, it’s generally their busiest time of the year, while the interior team is largely responsible for protecting the yacht from damage during the refit and doing stock takes etc, and therefore has more downtime. There is often time for chefs, deckhands, and stewardesses to take vacation during a shipyard period, or enroll in professional courses. Your shipyard project manager will generally be able to tell you how many crew will be required to assist with the work being carried out by their team onboard. However, bear in mind that shipyard staff will not be willing to oversee the work of private contractors who don’t work for them— that must be done by your crew.

8. Have the contractor and dayworker admission process streamlined for your yacht refit. A common delay in shipyards is in the mornings, when dayworkers and external contractors can get held up at the gate because they aren’t listed on the day’s admissions. Have all of this organized before time, as well as contracts ready for the dayworkers to sign.

9. Get to know the shipyard where your yacht is being refit. From building good relationships with the shipyard staff to knowing the facilities, emergency services and security provisions of the yard, the better informed you are, the better your yard period will be. By choosing the right shipyard and managing the yard period well, your yacht will be back on the water on time, on budget, and even more beautiful than ever.

By choosing the right shipyard and yacht brokerage to manage the yard period well; your yacht will be back on the water on time, on budget, and even more beautiful than ever.

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YACHT REFIT: A behind-the-scenes of why a yacht refit is important and how it’s done

• Written by Zoe Huitema
• May 25, 2023

Yacht refits; it might sound like either a very abstract or a rather overwhelming undertaking to a (potential) yacht owner, yet it need not be either of those two. Let EXMAR Yachting’s Xavier Ex take you behind the scenes to go into the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of a yacht refit.

REFIT: THE WHY In general, in order to maintain a yacht in perfect working condition, a thorough inspection is required every five years. Often, these extensive services translate into a mini-refit, as one might as well make the most of shipyard-time. Sometimes, a more thorough refit is either necessary or desired. Take Sailing Catamaran DOUCE FRANCE, for example.

Following a refit survey in Seychelles, where a clear outline of the extent of the refit was crafted with crew, owner, technical manager and shipyard representatives, DOUCE FRANCE sailed to a shipyard in France. What’s in a name, but there are more reasons to choose this location for its extensive refit; Europe tends to offer high-quality refits, France is relatively nearby for the owner and to EXMAR Yachting, who are the owner’s representative and the ship managers, and it means that all parties are working in the same time zone. Xavier Ex, the owner’s representative, explains: “Working in the same timezone is not an essential element to a successful refit, but it does make communication timelines more efficient. When you complete a refit in New Zealand, there is often a 12-hour delay for every phone call or email. Matching time zones allow for much quicker response times.”

REFIT: THE WHAT In case of DOUCE FRANCE, the largest portion of the refit meant a full repaint. Everything from topsides to masts, booms to buoys and hulls to davits was repainted, giving the catamaran a fresh new finish. Worth noting is that the colours and style of both the paintworks as well as the interior were renewed without modification, as even after twenty years of ownership, the owner is still in love with his yacht as it is. Xavier: “Of course we upgraded the ship’s systems wherever it was useful, but the overall design was and remains timeless to this day.”

Speaking of upgrades, the inspection of the ship’s structure from the inside of DOUCE FRANCE allowed for a thorough inspection on the inside. “She was completely open and dismantled, so we took full advantage,” says Xavier. “Completely new crew cabins with improved lay-outs are being installed and the galley is receiving a full refit as well. The guest areas all received a full refurbishment, deliberately retaining its classic style. Even the insulation of the ship was renewed to match current standards, with better sound and thermal properties. There was a full upgrade on the ventilation, a redo of water- and air condition piping and part of the electricity was updated as well. No stone was left unturned.”

REFIT: LONG-TERM VISION It is clear that a refit does not mean renewing for the sake of renewing. DOUCE FRANCE received a full EDCIS (professional IMO compliant digital charts system) upgrade, the communication system was completely renewed and upgraded, including a new, air-conditioned server rack and new modems/routers for 5G, wifi connection throughout the vessel and she is Starlink-ready. “It was decided to future-proof the vessel without letting ourselves get caught up with complex and redundant systems,” says Xavier. “Often simple is more reliable, especially out in the open sea. That way, things are easier to repair on-site if ever needed and spare parts are easy to find, making the ship easier to handle and cutting potential downtime.”

Another deliberate choice in keeping the ship easy to handle, was keeping on the entire crew during the refit. Even during the shipyard period, logistics continue, and own crew can do so much more efficiently. Plus, it can be a really interesting period for the crew, according to Xavier: “Crew can learn new things, which adds to their personal development, but also makes them better crew on board their vessel in the long run. Keeping crew on board during downtime shows mutual loyalty and commitment, and it keeps knowledge on board.”

REFIT: OWNER’S REPRESENTATIVE In DOUCE FRANCE’s case, the shipyard period means that next to the crew itself, there is a dedicated project manager representing the Owner on board, who is responsible for monitoring the shipyard activities whilst the Captain of course remains responsible for safety of the ship and the crew’s tasks. Xavier: “The both of them ensure the synergy between shipyard and crew, making sure they do not get in each other’s way but reinforce each other where possible.”

The two key figures act collaboratively on a problem-solving level, of course in close contact with the owner and Owner’s Representative. “As Owner’s Representative I have more decision-making rights. Also, the fact that I am not on board all the time makes that I bring a fresh perspective, which always helps with longer projects such as refits. As EXMAR Yachting, we are the main point of contact for the shipyard as we represent multiple vessels, we are the point of contact for respective owners and the point of contact for personnel on board. Our voice carries more weight as a result.”

Part of that weight is the fact that EXMAR Yachting has a direct line with the technical experts of the EXMAR Group. “It’s why we have the broadest maritime knowledge of the entire yachting industry. We can lean on the broad in-house knowledge for specific suppliers and contractors, for example. EXMAR’s purchase department also ensures that purchases are made properly, cost-effective, logistics done etc. We are a small team, so we’re right on top of things ourselves. Combine that with the extensive, collective know-how and you have a win/win situation.”

The fully upgraded, nearly-new DOUCE FRANCE will be back in the water by summer, which is when she will be available for charter in the Mediterranean.

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Behind the Scenes: The Refit Process from Start to Finish

Cruising the seas is an irresistible realm of luxury and adventure, where the opulent vessels of today embark on journeys that traverse endless horizons. Yet, concealed from the casual observer, lies a remarkable transformational process at the heart of these maritime icons — the refit process. This process is nothing short of an art form, rejuvenating boats, and elevating them to new heights in performance, aesthetics, and functionality.

Boat refits are the silent symphonies of transformation, where vessels are reborn and their stories are rewritten. Behind the scenes, hidden from the prying eyes of onlookers, skilled artisans, naval architects, engineers, and visionary owners come together to breathe new life into these nautical beauties. With meticulous planning and craftsmanship, they ensure that every vessel, from the gracefully sleek to the imposingly grand, remains at the zenith of maritime excellence.

In this comprehensive exploration, we embark on a journey through the captivating world of refits, where every phase of the process is a testament to human ingenuity and dedication. From the initial spark of inspiration to the final unveiling of a rejuvenated vessel, we uncover the intricacies, craftsmanship, and sheer artistry that transform aging boats into modern masterpieces. Join us as we lift the curtain on the fascinating journey that turns dreams into reality upon the azure canvas of the open sea.

1. The Vision and Planning Stage

A boat refit commences with a vision, often stemming from the owner’s desires and needs. Owners collaborate closely with experienced refit specialists, sharing their goals for the vessel. During this stage, a comprehensive plan is laid out, covering everything from technical enhancements to interior design changes. Every detail is meticulously considered, ensuring the refit aligns with the owner’s vision.

2. The Inspection and Assessment

Before any work begins, the boat undergoes a thorough inspection and assessment. This step is akin to a health check for the vessel. Engineers, naval architects, and marine technicians meticulously examine the boat’s structure, systems, and components. They identify areas that require attention, from mechanical systems and engines to the integrity of the hull. This assessment serves as the foundation upon which the entire refit project is built.

3. The Design and Conceptualization

Following the assessment, the design phase takes center stage. Interior designers, naval architects, and engineers collaborate to bring the owner’s vision to life. Innovative design concepts, materials, and technologies are explored to optimize both aesthetics and functionality. Detailed plans are developed, covering every aspect of the refit, from cabin layouts to exterior styling.

4. The Deconstruction and Stripping

With design plans in hand, the vessel enters the deconstruction phase. This stage involves carefully stripping the vessel down to its core. Old components and materials are removed with precision, making way for the new enhancements. This phase is akin to a meticulous surgical operation, requiring skill and care.

5. Technical and Mechanical Upgrades

At the heart of the refit lies technical and mechanical upgrades. Engines are overhauled or replaced with more efficient models, propulsion systems are modernized with the help of Seakeeper, and navigation equipment is updated. The vessel is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to ensure it operates at peak performance. This phase involves precise engineering and a commitment to enhancing the boat’s capabilities.

6. Interior Refurbishment

Simultaneously, the interior spaces undergo a transformative refurbishment. Every detail, from luxurious staterooms and salons to galleys and entertainment areas, is meticulously attended to. The goal is to create an environment that balances comfort, functionality, and aesthetics. Skilled craftsmen and designers work tirelessly to bring the owner’s interior design dreams to fruition.

7. Exterior Enhancements

The vessel’s exterior is not overlooked. Paint and coatings are refreshed to restore the vessel’s gleaming appearance. Hulls are polished to perfection. Exterior spaces such as decks and lounges are redesigned to maximize usability and visual appeal. This phase ensures that the boat’s exterior matches the renewed elegance of its interior.

8. Rigorous Testing

Before the boat returns to the water, it undergoes rigorous testing. Every system is tested exhaustively, engines are run extensively, and every component is checked for proper functionality. Safety and performance are paramount during this phase, ensuring that the boat operates seamlessly upon completion.

9. Sea Trials

Sea trials provide the ultimate assessment of a refit’s success. The boat embarks on test voyages to ensure that all systems perform flawlessly. Owners and refit specialists closely monitor the vessel’s performance, making necessary adjustments as needed. These trials guarantee that the boat not only meets but exceeds the owner’s expectations in real-world conditions.

10. Final Touches and Delivery

Once sea trials are successfully completed, the final touches are added. Every detail is meticulously inspected to ensure perfection and also detailed immaculately. The boat is then delivered to its owner, marking the culmination of months of hard work and dedication. This final phase is the realization of the owner’s vision, and the boat is ready to grace the seas once more in renewed splendor.

The refit process is a harmonious symphony of vision, precision, and innovation. Behind the scenes, skilled professionals collaborate to breathe new life into vessels, ensuring they continue to grace the seas with beauty, performance, and luxury. Whether you’re embarking on your own refit journey or simply admiring these magnificent vessels from afar, understanding the meticulous process behind the scenes is a testament to human ingenuity and the enduring allure of the open waters.

At Starboard Yacht Group, we specialize in orchestrating these transformative journeys, and we invite you to explore the possibilities of refits with us.

Take the first step toward elevating your boating experience.

Let’s embark on the remarkable voyage of transforming your boat together. your dream boat awaits, and we have the expertise to make it a reality., contact starboard yacht group today.

For any upgrades or refits, please reach out to us at Starboard Yacht Group.

We offer many different services designed to keep your vessel in pristine condition.

What is Sailboat Refit? (A Comprehensive Guide)

Sailboat refit is an important part of boat ownership, and yet it is often an intimidating process for many boat owners.

Whether you are a new or experienced boat owner, understanding what is involved in a sailboat refit is key to making sure you get the most out of your boat.

In this comprehensive guide, you will learn what sailboat refit is, the benefits, different types, costs, steps, best practices and challenges involved in the process.

So, if youre ready to make sure your sailboat is properly refitted and ready for the open seas, lets dive in and explore the ins and outs of sailboat refit!

Table of Contents

Short Answer

Sailboat refit is the process of upgrading or renovating an existing sailboat.

This can include replacing parts, installing new equipment, repairing structural damage, and painting or varnishing the interior and exterior.

Refitting a sailboat can be a major undertaking, requiring specialized skills and tools, and can take anywhere from a few days to several months, depending on the scope of the project.

What is a Sailboat Refit?

A sailboat refit is the process of renovating an existing sailboat to make it look and perform better.

This may involve repairs, upgrades, and modifications to the boat’s interior, exterior, and systems.

Refits are a popular way to extend the life of an existing sailboat and ensure it can keep up with the latest technology.

Refitting a sailboat involves more than just making cosmetic changes.

It includes replacing worn out or damaged parts, rewiring electrical systems, updating navigation systems, and adding additional amenities and equipment.

Depending on the age and condition of the sailboat, a refit can be a simple job or an extensive project that requires professional help.

Refitting a sailboat can be a cost-effective alternative to buying a new boat.

It can also be a great way to customize a boat to suit individual tastes and preferences.

Refits can range from minor projects like replacing a few hardware items or a new coat of paint to more extensive projects that involve structural changes and the addition of new systems.

In addition to improving the look and performance of a sailboat, a refit can also improve its safety and value.

By replacing worn and damaged parts and updating navigation systems, a refit can help make a sailboat more reliable and seaworthy.

This not only increases the value of the boat, but also helps to ensure a safe and enjoyable sailing experience.

No matter what type of sailboat refit is desired, it is important to find a qualified professional to ensure the job is done correctly.

An experienced professional can help to ensure the job is completed to the highest standards and that the boat meets all safety standards.

What Are the Benefits of Refitting a Sailboat?

Refitting a sailboat can be a great way to extend the life of your boat and ensure it can keep up with the latest technology. Refits can range from minor cosmetic changes to a complete overhaul, depending on the goals of the owner. In addition to increased performance, refitting a sailboat can provide a number of benefits, including:

1. Improved Safety: One of the most important benefits of refitting a sailboat is improved safety. Refitting your boat can help ensure that it is up to date with the latest safety regulations and standards, so you can enjoy worry-free sailing. Refitting can also help reduce the risk of mechanical and structural failures due to wear and tear, which can be especially beneficial for boats that are more than a few years old.

2. Increased Comfort: Refitting a sailboat can also provide increased comfort while sailing. This can involve replacing worn out cushions, updating the cabinetry, and installing air conditioning. By making your boat more comfortable, youll be able to enjoy your sailing trips even more.

3. Increased Performance: Refitting your sailboat can also help improve its performance. This can involve upgrading the boats electronics, installing new sails, and replacing the engine. Improving the performance of your boat can help you sail faster and more efficiently.

4. Increased Value: Refitting your sailboat can also help increase its value. This can be especially beneficial if you are looking to sell your boat in the future. Refitting your boat can make it more attractive to potential buyers and can help you get a higher price.

Overall, refitting a sailboat can be a great way to extend the life of your boat and improve its performance and value.

Whether youre looking for minor cosmetic changes or a complete overhaul, refitting your sailboat can help you get the most out of your sailing experience.

What Are the Different Types of Sailboat Refits?

When it comes to sailboat refits, there are several different types of projects that can be undertaken.

Depending on the condition of the boat, the owners goals, budget, and other factors, the scope of the project can range from minor cosmetic changes to a complete overhaul.

One type of sailboat refit is a cosmetic refit.

This type of project focuses on the aesthetics of the boat, such as cleaning and waxing the exterior, replacing hardware and fixtures, and refreshing the interior.

The goal of this type of refit is to improve the aesthetics of the boat while also helping to protect it from the elements.

Another type of sailboat refit is a performance refit.

This type of project focuses on improving the performance of the boat by upgrading and replacing components such as the sails, rigging, and engine.

The goal of this type of refit is to make the boat faster and more efficient.

A third type of sailboat refit is a structural refit.

This type of project focuses on the structural elements of the boat, such as replacing rotten wood, repairing or replacing the hull, and strengthening the frames and bulkheads.

The goal of this type of refit is to make the boat stronger and more reliable.

Finally, a complete refit is a project that combines all of the above types of refits.

This type of project combines the aesthetics, performance, and structural elements of the boat to make it look and perform better.

The goal of this type of refit is to make the boat look and perform like new.

No matter what type of sailboat refit is undertaken, its important to have a clear plan and budget in mind before beginning.

A professional refit can be expensive, so its important to make sure that the project is planned out and that the budget is realistic.

Additionally, its important to make sure that the project is completed properly, as a poorly done refit can cause more harm than good.

What Are the Costs of a Sailboat Refit?

When it comes to sailboat refits, one of the most important considerations is the cost.

Depending on the scope of the project, refits can range from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars, and the costs of a refit can vary widely depending on the boats size, condition, and the owners goals.

For a minor refit, the costs could include a few hundred dollars for a new coat of paint, new canvas, and new lines.

For a more extensive refit, the costs could easily climb into the thousands of dollars and include repairs to the hull, repainting the exterior, installing a new mast and rigging, upgrading the interior, and replacing the sails and electronics.

Its also important to consider the cost of labor when budgeting for a refit.

Professional services can cost thousands of dollars, depending on the complexity of the project.

If you plan on tackling the project yourself, you should consider the cost of tools, supplies, and time to complete the work.

Finally, its important to factor in the long-term cost of maintenance and upkeep for the boat.

Refits can extend a sailboats life, but its important to ensure that the boat is well-maintained to get the most out of the refit.

Regular maintenance and repairs can add up over time, so its important to factor in the cost of upkeep when budgeting for a refit.

Overall, the costs of a sailboat refit can vary widely depending on the boats size and condition, the owners goals, and the complexity of the project.

By researching the costs of materials, supplies, and labor, as well as the long-term costs of maintenance and upkeep, you can create a budget for your refit that will ensure your sailboat is looking and performing its best for years to come.

What Are the Steps Involved in a Sailboat Refit?

When it comes to a sailboat refit, it is important to understand the process and the steps involved.

Every refit is unique and will vary depending on the goals and scope of the project, but there are some common steps to consider.

The first step in any refit is to assess the boat and create a plan.

This will involve inspecting the boat for necessary repairs, upgrades, and modifications.

This is the time to decide what needs to be done and to create a budget.

The next step is to start the actual refit.

This will involve stripping the boat down to its bare bones and repairing any existing damage.

This includes replacing any unusable components and making any necessary repairs.

Once the repairs are complete, the boat is ready to be upgraded.

Upgrades can include new equipment such as sails, rigging, electronics, and other features that will improve performance and look.

Modifications to the interior and exterior can also be made to make the boat more comfortable or to give it a new look.

The final step in the refit is to launch the boat.

This involves putting the boat in the water, testing it out, and ensuring it is ready for use.

This is also the time to make any final adjustments or tweaks that may be needed.

A sailboat refit is a great way to extend the life of an existing sailboat and make sure it is up-to-date with the latest technology.

By understanding the process and the steps involved, you can ensure your refit project is a success.

What Are the Best Practices for Refitting a Sailboat?

Refitting a sailboat is a big undertaking, and its important to plan ahead and take the necessary precautions to ensure the job is done safely and correctly. The following are some of the best practices for refitting a sailboat:

1. Make sure you have the right tools and supplies. Youll need a variety of specialized tools and materials for any refit, including saws, drills, sanders, caulking, sealants, and marine paints. Make sure you have the right materials and tools for the job.

2. Get professional help. If youre not familiar with boatbuilding and repair, its best to hire a professional to help with the refit. Hiring a professional means you get the job done right the first time, and it will save you time and money in the long run.

3. Take safety precautions. Boats can be dangerous places to work, so make sure you take the proper safety precautions. Wear protective gear such as goggles, gloves, and ear protection. Make sure youre familiar with any hazardous materials, such as paint or fiberglass, and that youre taking the necessary steps to avoid harm.

4. Make a plan. Before you start the refit, make sure you have a plan. This should include a timeline, budget, and list of materials and tools youll need. Having a plan will help you stay organized and on track.

5. Focus on one task at a time. Refitting a sailboat is a complex process with many different tasks. To avoid getting overwhelmed, its best to focus on one task at a time and make sure its done correctly before moving on to the next task.

By following these best practices, you can ensure that your refit goes as smoothly as possible.

With the right tools, materials, and professional help, you can make sure your sailboat is safe, efficient, and reliable for years to come.

What Are the Challenges of Refitting a Sailboat?

Refitting a sailboat is no easy task.

It involves a significant amount of time, effort, and money.

Before embarking on such a project, it is important to consider all the potential challenges and determine if the benefits of the refit outweigh the costs.

One of the biggest challenges of a sailboat refit is the cost.

Depending on the type of refit and the desired outcome, the cost can range from a few hundred dollars for minor cosmetic changes to tens of thousands of dollars for a complete overhaul.

Other expenses may include tools, materials, and labor.

Another challenge is the complexity of the work.

Sailboat refits can involve a variety of tasks, from welding and carpentry to electrical work and plumbing.

Unless you are experienced in these areas, you may need to hire an expert to help with the refit.

Additionally, some refit projects may require specialized tools or parts that may not be available locally.

Finally, it is important to consider the amount of time involved in the refit.

Depending on the scope of the project, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks or even months to complete.

If you undertake a large refit project, you may need to factor in the cost of a marina stay while the project is in progress.

Refitting a sailboat can be a rewarding experience, but it is important to be aware of the challenges involved.

With a realistic budget, the right tools and materials, and a realistic timeline, you can make sure your sailboat refit project is a success.

Final Thoughts

A sailboat refit can be an exciting and rewarding experience.

By understanding the different types of refits available, the costs involved, and the steps and best practices to follow, owners can ensure their sailboat is up to date and ready to take on any adventure.

With a little bit of planning and the right guidance, a sailboat refit can be the perfect way to extend the life of your boat and make sure youre ready to hit the open waters.

James Frami

At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others.

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Yacht Interior Designers Guide: To Refit Or Not To Refit

Having spent quite a bit of time at various shipyards this first couple months of 2019, I am noticing that the yards are buzzing with refits and showing no signs of slowing down.

Why the refits? We are continuing to see yacht buyers who are interested in customizing a yacht but are unwilling to wait several years or pay the financial premiums that come with building a new custom yacht. If this is the case, an ideal solution would be a brokerage yacht that is purchased with a refit in mind.

A yacht refit can give an existing vessel an entirely new identity more expeditiously and more cost effectively. Great value can be achieved from successfully refitting an existing yacht to the buyer’s personal tastes and requirements. Either from the outset of ownership or during, a refitted yacht can exponentially add to the yachts aesthetic value, the buyer’s on board experience, and to the safety of their family and crew.

Yacht refit options range from minimal to massive.

Just about anything is possible with a yacht refit, allowing total customization within the yacht’s hull structure. One of the first steps is to determine what type of refit the vessel requires.

Does the yacht require a major refit, or “gut-n-chuck”? A “gut-n-chuck” consists of structural changes to exterior decks, walls or stairs, upgrades and repairs to the vessels mechanical and electrical systems, lighting, audio visual, plumbing, overheads, space planning, built in furnishings, mill work, solid surfaces, appliances, hardware, loose furniture, upholstery, window treatments carpet, wall paper, plus all of the soft goods, art and accessories. You can read about one of our most current extensive and highly custom yacht interior refits 142’ Christensen Lady Bee Refit: Striking A Balance Between Design & Desire on our Blog.

Or does the vessel require a minor yacht interior refit, or “fluff-n-puff”?  A “fluff-n-puff” includes fabrication and installation of soft goods such as bedding, upholstery, window treatments, carpet, wall paper, headliner, loose furniture, art and accessories.

A client who was a lifelong boater decided to charter the 86’ Nordhavn, (named Cary Ali at the time) and immediately made the decision to purchase her. After spending some time on the 86’ Nordhavn VivieRae , he decided to build the larger 96’ Nordhavn VivieRae II . He engaged us to do a minor refit on the yacht to enjoy during the two year built process of the 96’ which he also hired us to design.

Sometimes an Owner, Owner’s Representative or Yacht Broker will request that a Yacht Interior Designer “fluff-n-puff” or even stage the interior of a yacht to assist with the sale.  This was the case with the 209’ Royal Denship Turmoil that we completed just in time for the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show. You can read more about staging in our blog post “Staging Yacht Interiors” .

The key to successfully refitting a yacht is the effective planning and correct execution of the plan.

The success of a yacht refit and the difference between a smooth project or one full of setbacks and frustration comes down to the plans and decisions made prior to beginning the refit.

The key players are the yacht interior designer, captain and shipyard who execute the plan; the designer making interior decisions, the captain and / or shipyard making mechanical decisions, and the owner that approves the financial and time implications.

Together, It is crucial for this team to prioritize goals, map out a course of action and create a plan that anticipates and considers any potential unforeseen issues that may arise. As work begins, unexpected surprises will need to be addressed promptly and methodically.

Realistic budgets can work to a Yacht Owner’s advantage.

The budget should be realistic and contain a contingency for unforeseen conditions.

The Owner should acknowledge their budget and be honest with their team, the Yacht Interior Designer and Captain. Some Owners are reluctant to divulge the actual budget to the designer. Setting a realistic budget will help an owner keep track of where their money is going and what it is going toward. The Designer would not want to give the Owner a Cadillac if they had a Bentley in mind or the other way around. The Owner must discuss the budget with the Designer and the Captain and determine how much money should be allotted for items such as the interior, paint, generators, etc.   A wish list should be created and future Owners and charter guests should always be factored in to maintain the yacht’s value. All of the experts on the team must be on the same page to determine if everything desired will fit into the budget.

It is what you don’t see that can cause unexpected budgetary issues.  To keep costs from creeping up during a yacht refit, quickly identify any additional costs or delays and address them. Almost anything can be done, it just may cost more time and money.

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About the Author

Destry Darr Pethtel is an award-winning interior designer based in Florida. Her designs have been featured in several luxury yacht publications such as Showboats, Boat International, Yachts International, Yachting, Luxe Magazine to name just a few! Read More About Destry >>

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Published date — 05.01.2024

How to Start a Yacht Refit

Are you dreaming of transforming your beloved yacht into a vessel that reflects your unique style and vibe? Embarking on a yacht refit journey can be a thrilling experience, but it also requires careful planning, attention to detail, and expert guidance. Whether you’re looking to modernize your yacht’s interior, upgrade its technology, or enhance its performance, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get started on your yacht refit adventure.

1: Define Your Goals Before diving into the refit process, take some time to define your goals and objectives clearly. Consider what aspects of your yacht you want to improve or upgrade, whether it’s the interior design, mechanical systems, navigation equipment, or overall functionality. Identifying your priorities will help guide the refit process and ensure your vision is realized. This is an excellent time to contact a skilled yacht management firm (like our team!) to help pinpoint some of these goals.

2: Conduct an Assessment Next, conduct a thorough assessment of your yacht to identify areas that require attention and determine the scope of the refit project. This may involve inspecting the hull, mechanical systems, electrical systems, plumbing, interior fittings, and exterior surfaces. Our team will work with you (in addition to connecting you to our wide network of marine professionals, including yacht surveyors, engineers, and designers) to help assess the condition of your yacht and develop a plan of action.

3: Set a Budget Establishing a realistic budget is essential for a successful yacht refit project. Our team will consider the costs associated with labor, materials, equipment, permits, and any unforeseen expenses that may arise during the process. We will also be sure to factor in contingencies and buffer zones to account for unexpected challenges or changes to the scope of work.

4: Assemble a Team Like every good heist movie, the key to a successful yacht refit is assembling a skilled and experienced team of professionals. Depending on the scope of your project, you may need to enlist the services of yacht designers, naval architects, engineers, project managers, craftsmen, and specialized technicians to bring your vision to life. Our experienced and well-connected team will help you choose individuals and companies with a proven track record of excellence in yacht refits and renovations.

5: Make a Plan We will work closely with you and your team to develop a detailed refit plan outlining the project’s specific tasks, timelines, and milestones. One of the many advantages of taking on a refit with your yacht management team is we consider scheduling the work in phases to minimize disruption to your yachting schedule and ensure that each aspect of the refit is completed efficiently and to the highest standards.

6: Select Materials When selecting materials and equipment for your yacht’s refit, prioritize quality, durability, and functionality. Choose materials suitable for marine environments and able to withstand the rigors of life at sea. Not sure what that means? Our team of experienced maritime veterans will guide you and work with reputable suppliers and manufacturers to source the best products for your yacht’s needs.

7: Monitor Progress Throughout the refit process, we stay actively involved and regularly communicate with your team to monitor progress, address any issues, and adjust as needed. The best advice we have at this point in the journey is to stay flexible and open to changes, as unexpected challenges or opportunities may arise during the project.

8: Enjoy the Transformation! As the refit project nears completion, take a moment to step back and appreciate the incredible transformation that has taken place. Your yacht will emerge from the refit process with renewed beauty, functionality, and style, ready to embark on new adventures and create unforgettable memories for years to come.

Embarking on a yacht refit journey is an exciting opportunity to breathe new life into your vessel and create a space that reflects your taste and preferences. By following these steps and working with our team here at RYC, you can turn your yacht refit dreams into reality and enjoy the thrill of sailing on a yacht that is truly one-of-a-kind.

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Understanding the Realities of Yacht Refit

Kate got her start in the yachting industry working as crew. She spent five years cruising the Bahamas, Caribbean, New England, and Central America, then segued that experience into a career in marine journalism, including stints as editor of  Dockwalk  and  ShowBoats International .

A 1967 Camper & Nicholsons yacht came to a South Florida yard for a six-month, one-million-dollar refit. Six million dollars and one year later, it’s still there. The reasons for the overrun are many: a growing work list prompted by discoveries along the way, not to mention the challenge of sourcing parts for equipment whose manufacturers are long since out of business.

Delays with boats of all ages are common. While sometimes unavoidable, it’s possible to minimize them with a lot of pre-refit investigation and planning, good communication, and prompt decision-making on the job. Dockwalk spoke to top refit yards from San Diego to Ancona about their biggest challenges and their advice for captains on preparing for and managing a project to finish it on time and on budget.

Know Before You Go

“When the plans and specifications are detailed, clear, and without significant errors or omissions, the project is much more likely to be on time and within budget,” says Judy Salzman, project administrator at Thunderbolt Marine in Savannah, Georgia.

Having the most comprehensive specification from the start is the number one piece of advice from every yard. As Vincent Escallier, commercial director of MB92 La Ciotat , says, “The earlier you begin the quotation process and the more detail provided in the scope of work, the better.”

This won’t guarantee a good project, points out James Brewer, who until very recently was head of business development at Derecktor Shipyards , but is now joining Roscioli Yachting Center as managing director. But the opposite is certainly true: “A bad specification is guaranteed to create misery. The more effort expended before the project on inspection, engineering, planning, and logistics, the better scope-creep can be handled,” he says.

Shipbuilding and repair giant Fincantieri , which mostly deals with 80-plus-meter yachts, says that these larger vessels tend to be better prepared, having the benefit of technical management.

“A bad specification is guaranteed to create misery. The more effort expended before the project on inspection, engineering, planning, and logistics, the better scope-creep can be handled,” he says.

On the other end of the spectrum, yachts in the 80- to 100-foot range can be the least organized, says Dan Bornarth, assistant vice president of operations at Bradford Marine . “There tends to be a greater growth in the scope of work once the yard period begins, which then in turn changes timelines.”

Expect the Unexpected

Scope-creep happens. “There is always the unforeseen,” says Phil Vitale, business development manager at Roscioli, “especially on older vessels.”

You can’t determine the condition of the sub-deck without ripping up the teak. But figuring out ahead what surprises may be in store and allowing time for these will go a long way towards managing the owner’s expectations. Fincantieri calls the growth in work scope inevitable and expected, especially on major refits of larger boats. Giuseppe Palumbo, CEO of Palumbo SY Refit , which has shipyards in France, Italy, and Malta, agrees. “Thanks to the vast experience we’ve acquired, usually we can predict such circumstances.” With this foresight, yards can help keep a project on track. “Most established yards can absorb significant work growth without major schedule changes,” says Fincantieri, “[but] there’s a limit, especially if spare parts and materials with long-lead procurement are needed for the additional jobs.”

Indeed, “Identifying long-lead items and supply chain challenges as early as possible is really important,” says Toby Allies, joint managing director of Pendennis in Falmouth. Especially with the pandemic affecting supply chains worldwide.

Brewer suggests asking “what if” questions, while considering the worst-case scenario: “Review the work list with the end in mind: what happens if a long-lead time component gets damaged or is not repairable — shaft seals, valves, bearings, etc. Have a contingency plan or procure parts in advance of the yard period.”

What’s Essential?

Start by asking yourself what you want to get out of the refit, what is the main scope of work, says Daniele Di Giampaolo, technical & sales director at Amico & Co. in Genoa. “Additional wish lists can usually be accommodated but the main works will dictate the main refit timeframe and the facilities necessary.”

“Have a contingency plan or procure parts in advance of the yard period.”

“Be clear on the scope and the priority of work by separating required work items from those that do not take precedence,” adds Eric Lundeen, director of operations at Marine Group Boat Works .

“Anything that prevents a vessel from operating safely must be prioritized,” says Bradford’s Bornarth. “Additionally, things that affect the integrity of the vessel should not be postponed, such as water leaks, tank coatings, exterior paint coatings, etc.; when these are left unattended they will end up being very costly to repair and will ultimately decrease the overall value of the asset.”

On top of any mandatory works, any big job that will determine the critical path, like full paint, teak decks, interior work or extensions, needs to be considered a priority, says Escallier at MB92. “This will form the first stage of the quotation process. The second stage involves nonessential works that can be carried out during the set timeframe.”

Understand the owner’s expectations when it comes to quality, time, and cost, says Brewer. “If quality is a given, then prioritizing timeframe will potentially compromise budget, or prioritizing budget will potentially compromise schedule.”

Play to Strengths

“Not all shipyards are created equal and each has its specialties. Don’t expect a great result if the shipyard is drawn far from its core competencies,” Brewer says. Palumbo agrees, “Carefully selecting the shipyards to rely on can pay off.”

Understand the owner’s expectations when it comes to quality, time, and cost, says Brewer. 

“A very common mistake is to presume that anybody in the refit field is able to assure the resources necessary to perform the project; a second mistake is to not verify this important aspect,” says Di Giampaolo. “There are many set-ups ... which are essentially refit brokers, very often providing only facilities, and sometimes not even these, and once they have the business contract, they quickly search for subcontractors to perform the job on their behalf, often offering a very low price.” He calls a major refit in a custom yard akin to a two-year new-build project.

Who’s in Charge?

After the initial planning and meetings with the yard, when the project gets underway, it progresses fast. Unless a decision needs to be made and there’s no one to make it — then it can come to a grinding halt. “Unclear decision-making process and communication are the common elements that have created program delays in the past,” says Allies. 

“...Due to time constraints, the daily presence — whether virtual or physical — of the owner’s technical supervisor is fundamental in assisting the yard with real-time decisions.”

Enabling a representative on the ground to make decisions will avoid delays, Di Giampaolo says. “Whether that be your captain, technical management, or a dedicated independent project manager… It is absolutely essential to be able to get a rapid response from the owner’s team in order to avoid unnecessary downtime. Due to time constraints, the daily presence — whether virtual or physical — of the owner’s technical supervisor is fundamental in assisting the yard with real-time decisions.”

Project Management

At STP Shipyard Palma — an open yard where yachts choose the companies they want to work with — the challenge becomes coordinating between companies. Sometimes the vessel’s captain will handle this to save the cost of a project manager. And therein lies the problem.

STP Production Manager Carlos Albons Llompart advocates for using a project manager. “When the timing with separate projects is not handled properly, this causes a delay for the projects to be closed and it sometimes has a chain effect that ends up delaying the launching or departure of the vessels,” he says.

Crew Are Essential Workers

Yards love crew. Bornarth at Bradford calls them critical to a project’s success. “Knowing the boat quite well, they can be of valuable help to our team, making the whole process smoother and faster,” Palumbo agrees.

He’s even seen a trend: “Vessels with regular crew on site typically experience a smoother yard period.”

When a key crew position leaves mid-project it can throw off the whole schedule. Marine Group Boat Works includes disruptions due to crew rotation or turnover as one of the top challenges the yard faces in completing a project on time. “What one captain or engineer wants or understands of the objective can vary from the next, so oftentimes this creates confusion from a yard’s standpoint,” says Lundeen. He’s even seen a trend: “Vessels with regular crew on site typically experience a smoother yard period.”

Staying on Budget

To keep on budget, Brewer recommends a continuous review of percentage of completion versus percentage of money spent. “Project management tools are good at determining how much money has been spent to date versus the budget; however, it takes real experience to see that 80 percent of the money has been expended and the job is only 50 percent done.” He suggests the captain and shipyard project manager meet regularly from the start of the job to verify and agree how much has been completed. “The sooner the slippage can be identified the earlier efforts to mitigate can be started,” he says, adding that quantifiable standards to judge the completion level are particularly important for paint and cosmetic projects.

Marine Group Boat Works has another tip: find a yard willing to fix-price work items so they absorb the financial risk and there are no surprises in costs.

Get Real About Potential Delays

The reality is there are countless reasons why you might not splash on the intended day. Consider this at planning and build in contingencies then, advises Fincantieri. Di Giampaolo recommends factoring at least 10 percent for the unexpected.

“We deal in reality,” says Vitale, whose approach stems from 45 years in the business. “There are only so many coats of varnish you can put on in a day, in a week. We have to deal with parts being delayed, shipments from overseas being stuck in customs, or [a part having] to be fabricated when it can’t be found. We have to deal with subcontractors that don’t show up when they say they will. We have to deal with a team member having a baby, for example. That’s reality.”

Manpower is a common stressor. Yard work in busy periods between cruising seasons will have yachts jostling for a finite number of skilled laborers. 

Manpower is a common stressor. Yard work in busy periods between cruising seasons will have yachts jostling for a finite number of skilled laborers. “You’re at the mercy of subcontractors in this business, which is why we try to do everything ourselves, but there is only so much a shipyard can do,” Vitale says. “We have our key subcontractors ... loyal to us and we’re loyal to them, so they usually perform for us. But things happen.”

In open yards like Lauderdale Marine Center and STP Shipyard Palma, where the captain is dealing with subcontractors directly, make sure the company chosen has enough staff to handle the project within your timeframe, advises Llompart at STP.

In the end, the pressure goes both ways. The yards feel your stress and they strive to get you out when you have to be. “We all do the best we can,” Vitale says. Escallier at MB92 seconds that: “We are in the service industry, so it’s our job to move heaven and earth to make it happen.”

More from Dockwalk

Most popular on dockwalk.

Yacht Refit Cost

There is a false impression about yachts – that they only require a refit if they are on their last legs and are barely seaworthy. This simply isn’t the case. 

If you think in terms of houses, you refit your home from time to time to update how it looks, to reflect both your personal taste and changing trends: to future proof it and ensure it remains fit for purpose.  

Now consider when you would usually renovate your house. Normally, the highest expenditure is when you move in, as you want it exactly the way that suits you before settling in. You might spend smaller amounts updating it from time to time, as fashions change, before spending the second highest amount of money when you plan to move out.

Why? Because you realise that, by making it look more up-to-date and attractive to potential buyers, you’ll get better value for it.  The cost of any work is justified by the proportionally far larger increase it adds to the value.  

Delivering Value

Much the same applies to yachts. A refit by Setag is there to add value. It isn’t the equivalent of fixing a dilapidated house – rather it should be seen as a way to futureproof your yacht and make it reflect your taste, personality and needs.  

One of the most common customer situations the yacht business caters for is the returning customer who wants to upgrade their vessel. Our solution at Setag is to offer a larger pre-owned model, without the depreciation and work with the customer to carry out a thorough refit at the fraction of the cost. That way they have all the benefits of a new build – with bespoke interiors created for them as well as up-to-date electronics systems, but delivered at value.  

A Sustainable Transformation

We provide a beautiful level of service, offering luxury to the pre-owned market – ensuring that you are in control of your yacht’s refit at every stage. You get to sit down with one of the best interior designers in the business and work with them to create the yacht that you have always dreamt of, rather than simply making do with the pre-owned boats available, in the state that you find them.  

In turn, we can make a very significant impact on the vessel for 10-15% of the boat value . So there’s a good economic answer for having a Setag design & refit, but a full, dedicated refit service simply hasn’t existed until now.  

We’re ready to redefine, refit and remaster your yacht, according to your needs. Get in touch today to Realise the Art of the Possible.

Redefined by Setag

Each project is truly bespoke, catering to individual needs. If you are moving into a new house, you naturally want to renovate to put your own stamp on it – to make it feel like your home. So, why would you be happy to live with someone else’s taste when it comes to your yacht?

Yacht Refit

One of the most common questions we are asked by potential clients is what we mean exactly when we talk about offering a refit service for yachts. There is a false impression about yachts that they only require a refit if they are on their last legs and are barely seaworthy. This simply isn’t the case.

With SETAG, you can make a huge difference when you buy something secondhand, maybe a bit tired and then you put all of this beauty in it and you create what effectively is a brand new boat. Completely to your own liking, your own standard...creating the perfect boat for us.

Brilliant concept...new boat look and feel at pre-owned prices - by the industry experts. Recycling at its best!

The great thing is, none of this is off the shelf - I love this boat and now she’s got her frock on...this is the best money I've spent.

If you want to redefine, refit and remaster your boat who better to do it than the people who designed it in the first place? "What a fantastic idea!"

We cannot recommend the SETAG team highly enough. If you love your current boat, then for a fraction of the cost to change it, have it SETAG’d. The SY branding certainly helped us obtain a premium price. We got what we paid for her in 2017 plus what we spent with you!

I have worked with Chris for over 30 years and I’m pleased to see him develop his own brand - along with likeminded people with industry-leading expertise. The future is bright for Setag Yachts and pre-owned yacht owners, who can now refurbish their vessels to today’s - or even tomorrow's standards.

That has been one of the key selling points for us – having that personalised service and having a boat that is unique to us – is standout in its own right. We are pretty blown away…very very pleased. I think it’s fabulous…it has transformed the boat.

The perfect way to open up a new market: the "true reflection of luxury". Setag gets it: simplicity and personalisation are key – with the depth of knowledge to deliver.

Setag are probably the only company who can carry out all the tasks as a ‘one stop shop’. Other yards were reluctant to price work and needed to subcontract many tasks meaning higher costs and longer lead times. If you are in any doubt speak to Chris and his team, they know boats like no one else.

We have been waiting for this quality of service: a comprehensive, professional refit that we can rely on – because of the pedigree of its staff, with over 200 years' experience in our market.

You have put Princess magic into our beloved Broom.

Never have I come across a more able collection of professionals in this market. We have complete trust in Setag, since its team has been in the business for as long as we can remember. We're very excited to welcome this specialist refit company into our portfolio.

Testimonials

Don't just take our word for it...

• Yachting World
• Digital Edition

Yacht refit tips: you can save costs on refitting a quality cruiser by project managing the work yourself

• January 25, 2015

Buy a quality cruiser and project manage your own refit. Rupert Holmes advises on how to avoid the pitfalls

Have you ever hankered after a top-quality yacht, fitted out to your own requirements, but discounted the idea on the basis of cost? If so, it may be worth looking into buying one with the intention of carrying out a yacht refit and project managing the work yourself.

While many owners of larger craft hand refit work to a single yard that becomes responsible for the entire process, it can also be viable to manage a refit on a biggish boat yourself. One of the most common motivations for owners to do so is to get to know their boat and its systems better – we even came across one person who had bought a new boat with a very basic level of equipment and then fitted the equipment needed for long-distance sailing themselves for this very reason. Another popular reason is the potential for cost savings.

On the downside, even if you’re not hands-on in terms of actually doing the work, the project management aspect will be time-consuming. In addition, if things go wrong you won’t have the benefit of the knowledge base of a big yard, which is likely to have figured out solutions to similar problems encountered in the past. But it can still pay dividends.

Dave and Linda Pedley

The refit of Sea Flute

David Pedley bought his 2003 Oyster 56, Sea Flute , in Palma, Mallorca in early 2014 and brought her to the UK for a refit that he project managed himself.

“Although I could have bought a newer boat with similar equipment, it would have been a compromise,” he says, “Now I have an excellent boat that’s set up exactly as I want it, with top-quality gear, and I’m delighted with the result.”

Having completed the refit in just eight weeks, his plan is to return to the Mediterranean in the spring of 2015, before setting off on a circumnavigation in 2017 with the Oyster World Rally.

Work done included hull renovation (including a deep cut and compound polish, plus skeg repairs), an extensive overhaul to the teak deck, a new suit of Dolphin Sails in a heavy-duty DYS Dyneema double taffeta laminate and replacement of most running rigging. On the electrical front, there were repairs and modifications to the electrical system, plus new chartplotters, Raymarine CHIRP downvision sonar, radar and VHF systems. The engine was also serviced and a new bow thruster fitted.

New suit of Dolphin sails

Initially, one of Pedley’s motivations for project managing the refit was that none of the yards he approached – two large operations in Palma, plus Oyster’s Southampton Yacht Services – was able to accommodate the refit within a timescale that would enable the boat to be used in 2014.

As well as minimising the loss of sailing time, Pedley believes in retrospect that his greater input helped to reduce costs. “I saved quite a lot by getting quotes from different contractors and being able to negotiate on price,” he says.

Around 90 per cent of the work was contracted out to three different companies. “My main time input was in organising that, getting quotes and so on – I was working at least one day per week on the project,” he explains.

The long lead time on the project, which was an inevitable factor of the delivery home, meant Pedley was able to give contractors three or four months’ notice, so they had plenty of time to schedule the work.

“It would have been nice to have done it earlier, so that we wouldn’t have missed as much of the sailing season,” he says, “but we were constrained by the earliest realistic dates to bring the boat across Biscay.”

The boat had already been surveyed in Palma and, before leaving, the engine was serviced, the rig checked and the masthead wind sensor replaced. However, as is often the case with refits, not everything went according to plan and the total cost amounted to roughly double what Pedley originally expected to spend.

In particular, the deck required considerably more work than anticipated. In the boat’s previous ownership, the deck had been enthusiastically cleaned, with the result that once work started it became apparent that there was insufficient depth remaining for new caulking to be applied. The channels between the planks on the entire deck had to be routed deeper – a very labour-intensive task. There were also smaller problems with wiring and electronics, which were discovered on the delivery back to the UK.

Sea Flute sailing again

Given the problems he encountered, would Pedley undertake a similar project again, and what advice does he have for other owners?

“I would definitely do it again and in a very similar way, but I would spend a lot more time investigating each job beforehand,” he says. “The problem is that if you discover additional problems during a refit, you’re beholden to the contractor and you’re not in a position to negotiate on the price for the extra work.

“At the outset you also have to be absolutely certain of what you want to end up with. Then you’re in a position to give contractors a very clear specification. You also have to make sure their quotes are comprehensive – I had several that appeared to be cheaper, but were short-cutting work that I wanted done, like installing new wiring and removing the existing wires.”

In terms of choosing contractors, Pedley says: “The deck was the main priority, so I specifically looked for a timber specialist and commissioned Robert Leach-Lewis of Blue Chip Marine, who did a superb job. I was impressed by his constant communication, including lots of photos throughout the work.”

For the electronics Pedley visited three companies to talk through specifications in detail, selecting companies that worked with a number of different manufacturers, so that he would be getting impartial advice. Key criteria he looked for included companies that would use their own employees for the installation, rather than contracting the work to a third party, and firms with sufficient flexibility to work around the other parts of the refit.

In the end Pedley went with Port Solent-based Marine Electronics Installations, which he had also used on his previous Oyster.

See also the refitting of Zest, the author’s partner’s boat

Do’s and don’ts

• Don’t underestimate how long it takes to source the parts you need, whether it’s nuts and bolts or big-ticket items, this can absorb a huge amount of time.
• Don’t be daunted by unexpected problems – you’re bound to come across some. What matters is the way you deal with them and that you have a sensible contingency in your budget.
• Don’t procrastinate on making decisions.
• Don’t assume that undertaking every refit task yourself will save money – there are some areas in which specialists with the right tools and experience will work ten times faster than you can.
• Do identify the most likely bottlenecks in the work programme as early as possible.
• Do expect the refit to be a lot more expensive and time-consuming than your initial estimates.
• Do order essential parts as early as possible – the many different individual items that make up a yacht’s inventory are often sold in surprisingly small numbers. Even manufacturers now often hold only small stock levels and it’s not unknown for them to run out until the next batch is manufactured.
• Do focus on the boat’s structure and key systems – you have to get these aspects right.
• Do introduce redundancy of essential systems – this will maximise the boat’s overall reliability.

Hints and tips

• Be organised and plan as far ahead as possible.
• Allow a generous contingency of both time and budget.
• If carrying out a large proportion of the work yourself, a container store/workshop near the boat will help keep you organised and speed progress.
• Remember that spring is the busiest time of year for everyone working in the marine trades. If you’re refitting at this time of year, try to commission the work well in advance and minimise adding extra jobs to the list. Even if your contractor is able to absorb the extra work, if you’re effectively asking them to put in lots of overtime hours, the labour rate may reflect this.

This is an extract from a feature in Yachting World January 2015

What is a refit?

Turns out, the answer to that question depends on who you ask..

Check out a sales listing for a yacht and chances are it includes the year of a refit.

Refit? Is that a hull extension, or new soft goods? There is no general consensus on the answer. Just ask the yacht owner, the captain, the broker or the workers — the definition depends on who is talking.

Bradford Marine in Fort Lauderdale recently did what they consider an extensive refit on the 130-foot Westport M/Y No Bad Ideas that included a 9-foot deck extension, a new fiberglass hard top, and a new aluminum mast.

“Conceptually, it’s the same as a home renovation — you can just change the bathroom or you can take it down to the studs. We think of a refit as more of going down to the studs,” said Michael Kelly, president and chief operating officer of Bradford. “There is no formal definition within the industry and owners aren’t as concerned with what it’s called. They just want us to bring their vision to life.”

Does the industry need a definition?

Use of the word “refit” leads people to expect the work to be major, but sometimes it is primarily cosmetic, even with a price-tag in the millions, according to longtime yacht Capt. Mike French. “Just to change the color is a million and to change the teak is another million — but you haven’t addressed issues in the engine room,” he said. 

It is a problem when someone buys a yacht that has been described as a refit, but later the owner finds it still needs major work.

“There is no legal definition, but maybe there is a case to tell about the work and be transparent?” French pondered. “I’ve had owners ask me ‘Should I buy this boat?’ because they don’t know what the word ‘refit’ really means.”

There are so many variables, Capt. Wendy Umla noted. One person’s refit might not be another’s; it depends on what the yacht owner needs and wants. Umla compared it to the sale of her house: She had invested in substantial improvements before she sold, but the new owners changed it all. “New owners often just want to make it their own,” she said.

With years of experience in some of Florida’s largest yards, Colin Kiley, chief revenue officer of Bradford Marine in Fort Lauderdale, said jobs are typically either repairs, maintenance, projects, or refits. 

“Repairs and maintenance speak for themselves,” Kiley said. “Projects are those trade-specific jobs that might take between one to three months to complete. They could take longer, but it is somewhat job specific. It could be new engines, or a full paint job, or a new galley, while other maintenance jobs are being completed.”

The word “refit” is reserved for something more, he said.

“For us, a refit is a more holistic renovation that generally takes place over six months to a year or more that includes major changes throughout many departments on the vessel,” Kiley said. “This could include new interior, deck extension, full paint, and engine room renovations.”

Refits often require a variety of tradesmen for significant work, such as changing the floor plan, rebuilding the galley, or adding an extension, according to Ernest D’Alto, president of Thunderbolt Marine in Savannah, Georgia. 

“Each of these requires the participation of many trades to remove interferences and provide new wiring, fixtures, plumbing, cabinetry, and so on,” he said. 

Both yard periods and refit require multiple trades, D’Alto said, but after a refit, the vessel leaves renewed — more like a complete home restoration.

With more than 40 years in yacht and crew management, yacht build projects, and yacht brokerage, Bob Saxon, president of Bob Saxon Consultancy, offers his definition from the sales perspective.

“With a twist on the theme of ‘beauty is in the eye of the beholder,’ refits are just that — a bit undefined,” he said. “I’ve had owners who called ‘refits’ simply changing out the soft goods. However, for me it’s a makeover, whether it be an interior refit or exterior refit, which could involve the extreme of hull modification,” Saxon said. 

“True refits breathe life into the yacht and re-present the vessel to the marketplace with renewed vigor.”

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About Dorie Cox

Dorie Cox is a writer with Triton News.

View all posts by Dorie Cox →

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Expert tips: Refitting a yacht

How to go about refitting a yacht – tips from the experts.

Refitting an older boat could mean you end up with a better yacht for your money than buying new. But there’s a lot to balance and weigh up.

Berthon is a top bluewater refit yard, dealing with boats from 25ft to 100ft-plus. Owner Brian May had these tips for prospective buyers:

•  The very best buy is a brokerage yacht whose current owner has just completed a refit. We have recently been involved with a couple of sales where yachts have been fully equipped for circumnavigations and then the owner’s plans have changed.
•  However perfect the yacht you buy, expect to spend 10 per cent extra on the ‘faff factor’. These will be the things that you want to do to make her yours –upholstery; different electronics; maybe an A-sail in preference to a Parasailor.
•  Buy the yacht that makes your heart sing, not the one the experts say is right. There is no such thing as the perfect Pacific, Atlantic or high latitude yacht.
•  Get the boat very carefully surveyed and make sure your surveyor is experienced and knows what you want to use her for.
•  Be realistic. Over 55ft, you will need crew unless you are a skilled engineer, so allow for them in your plan. If you do not want crew, ask yourself what level of complexity you will be comfortable with.
•  Difficult access to systems leads to lack of service and lack of reliability.
•  Buy the yacht that will suit you and your crew – not the one that will suit the guests who promise to fly out to see you.
•  It may be cheaper to buy a simpler yacht and add the kit than to reinvent the wheel on a well‑equipped older yacht.

Sky’s the limit

Malcolm Hearnden, general manager and director of Hamble Yacht Services Refit and Repair, says: “Should you decide to go down the route of buying a used boat and refitting her, look carefully into what you can achieve within the existing hull structure. Like all things, you can do anything these days with the various materials available, but if you choose to modify the structure, the man hours can soon run away and burn up a large proportion of the budget.”

Refit specialists Stella Maris, Southampton: stellamaris.co.uk Berthon, Lymington: berthon.co.uk Hamble Yacht Services: hambleyachtservices.co.uk Goodacre, Portsmouth: goodacreboats.co.uk Kiwi Marine, Portsmouth: kiwimarine.co.uk

Read about an Oyster 56 that underwent a £200,000 refit here .

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Superyacht refit guide: How much does a refit cost?

Repainting a hull.

Want to know exactly how much a superyacht refit costs? Daan Balk, CEO of Balk Shipyard , and Fortunato Di Marco, sales manager of Lusben , explain what goes into four of the most common refit requests and how much they will cost a superyacht owner.*

Repainting a hull

A new paint job might seem straightforward enough, but owners are often surprised by how quickly costs can escalate. “Painting is 70 per cent preparation – fairing, sanding and treating corrosion – but it’s absolutely worth doing a proper job,” Balk says. “If you take care with all that, your paint will last much longer.”

And don’t forget that before any painting can happen, “you have to take off all the hardware, stainless-steel railings, hand grips, grids and doors, and the caulking will need to be cut away and window seals removed”, Balk says. “There are some cases of ‘scratch and shoot’ but in general there’s a lot of additional work that people don’t realise – plus the cost of having the boat in a shed with heating, lighting and extractors.”

*All costs are estimates, based on a 60-metre yacht in fairly good condition. Image courtesy of Billy Black.

Installing an LED Lighting System

Swapping harsh halogen lights for warmer, more subtle LEDs is a relatively simple way to update your yacht. Costs vary hugely depending on whether you’re copying your original lighting plan and placing lights in the same position – in which case “you could do that quite easily in a couple of weeks”, Balk says – or if you’re planning on redesigning your whole system, which owners often want to do. The age of the boat has a bearing on rewiring, Di Marco notes, and costs will change depending on whether you go for simple LEDs, RGB or RGB white systems.

LEDs are a wise investment, in Balk’s opinion, because they’ll save on electric power consumption too. “Normally a light produces 80 per cent heat and only 20 per cent light, but LEDs are completely different,” he says. Unlike some projects, owners have the choice of whether to keep changes to the lighting minimal, and therefore keep the costs down, or to run with a more extensive overhaul. Either way, it’s a savvy investment.

Image courtesy of Jeff Brown.

Replacing Superyacht Furniture

Swapping out built-in, dark, carved wooden furniture for free-standing items in lighter woods is one of the most popular refit trends today. “It’s something you can do on a reasonable budget to make a magnificent difference,” Balk says. Free-standing items are also easier to replace in the future, giving you more flexibility to refresh your boat on a regular basis. “The process can be complicated by the fact that some fixed furniture is used to cover cables, piping and fan coils,” Di Marco adds.

But, “it’s something that makes people feel they get value for money,” adds Balk. “You can come on board and think, wow, this is a totally different ship!”

Image courtesy of Mark Sims.

Installing a Spa Pool

When it comes to installing a hot tub , many owners are lured by a seemingly straightforward, off-the-shelf option. But, explains Balk, if you haven’t thought about access properly, “the whole thing will be torn apart so that we can position filters and pumps in different positions. The same hot tub can cost you twice as much”.

A detailed spec is crucial when looking into installation – what regulations your yacht has to comply with is a major factor, and “the availability of power in relation to how quickly water can be heated up is key too”, Di Marco says. What deck you choose to have your spa pool on is also important. “Most people like to have it on the highest deck, in the sun, but from a naval architecture point of view that’s the most difficult point because it’s directly related to the stability of the yacht,” Balk notes. He recommends building a tub that fits in with the power and water systems you already have on board – and don’t forget, even though space is at a premium, you’ll still need to get access to maintain it.

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Top 10 All-Inclusive BVI Motor Yachts from $23,400 for 2024/2025

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Verified & Reviewed by Louis Lamprell

Louis has a fantastic knowledge of the charter yacht market. He has participated in many yacht shows and inspected hundreds of yachts. His memory of specific details and his excellent networking skills enable him to secure deals quickly, especially when time is of the essence. Louis has a good mix of professional and friendly attitude and a great reading of client needs, reflected in the many 5-star client reviews where he is specifically mentioned!

What Does All-Inclusive Yacht Charter Mean?

To understand the prices listed in this article, it is important first to understand what an All-Inclusive Yacht Charter BVI means. –In yacht charters, two main contract types are used: CYBA ( Caribbean Yacht Brokers Association ) and MYBA ( Mediterranean Yacht Broker Association ). CYBA contracts, common in the Caribbean (all catamarans and some motor yachts), are all-inclusive except for gratuities and are in the industry referred to as “Caribbean terms.” MYBA contracts, used globally, are “plus expenses,” meaning fuel, food, and dockage are extra and handled through Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA).

What is Included in an All-Inclusive Yacht Charter?

Unless specified under the Special Conditions , the total all-inclusive charter fee includes:

• Hiring of the yacht
• Services of a fully licensed crew
• Standard ship’s bar Fuel
• Cruising taxes and permits
• Clearance taxes
• Mooring fees
• All expenses related to running the yacht
• Use of on-board leisure and sports equipment

What is Not Included in an All-Inclusive Yacht Charter?

• Crew gratuities
• Premium beverages (fine wines & excessive alcohol requests)
• Scuba diving
• Off-yacht excursions
• Dockage requested by the charterer
• Fishing licenses
• Communications
• Airport transfers and other similar expenses

Note: The prices listed in this article are all-inclusive yacht charter prices , whereas prices listed on the individual yacht pages are +Expenses rates and have an APA ( Advance Provisioning Allowance ) charge added on top, usually set at around 35% of the base charter fee.

10. Prime Time ⏐ 88 ft Nordlund

All-inclusive weekly rates:.

• 2-6 guests $26,600/week

All-Inclusive Rates Include:

• All breakfasts
• 5 lunches aboard

Christmas & New Year Rates:

Up to 6 guests – US$31,250 (HALF BOARD – all breakfasts, 2 dinners, and 5 lunches)

View Inquire

“Yachting on a Beer Budget”

This 88-foot Nordlund Motor Yacht with accommodation for 6 guests is really great value for money and has excellent client feedback ! Honestly, there aren’t many luxury yachts of this size and standard at this all-inclusive price! Prime Time is, therefore, also a very popular boat fully booked out every year; it is, therefore, important to reserve her in good time.

Prime Time is owned and skippered by American ex-navy Captain Joe Standish , who has lived and chartered in the BVI since 1999. Joe runs one of the oldest charter businesses in the BVI ; needless to say, his local knowledge and experience are second to none.

The second crew member onboard Prime Time, Michael, has worked many years on cruise ships and local cargoes and was on the water when Hurricane Irma hit the Caribbean—here is a good story to be told.

The crew wants people to be comfortable and act like they would at home: “We are very laid back. Our company motto has always been ‘Come as Guests…Leave as Friends…’ That still holds true while running Prime Time, but we have added a new one for the niche we plan on filling in this industry, ‘Yachting on a Beer Budget.’ With that mentality, we also want our guests to ’embrace the local culture,’ which is why we only do breakfast and lunches onboard. We believe that a yacht charter here in the BVI is so much more than just being on a beautiful boat for 7 days. Your Crew wants you to enjoy the things that ‘we do,’ whether that be local BBQ or fish fry, drinks on the beach, or just chilling on your own private beach. We will make your time with us a memorable one.”

Guest Feedback

“Another fantastic trip! Captain Joe and Mike are so friendly, full of knowledge, and a great time! We wouldn’t travel on another boat in the BVI. Great food and drinks, and lots of laughs! Capt. Joe took us to all the spots on our list and a few more. If you have ever wanted to charter a boat to see the Islands, Prime Time is the only way to do it! Already looking to book again for next year.”

9. Suite Life ⏐ 92 ft Tarrab

• 2 guests $42,500
• 3 guests $43,500
• 4 guests $44,500
• 5 guests $45,500
• 6 guests $46,500
• 7 guests $47,500
• 8-9 guests $48,500

Child Discount:

$250 off for each child age 12 and under at the time of charter. Max 4 child discounts per charter with 2 paying adults.

What is Included:

*All-inclusive according to CYBA terms and conditions.

10% surcharge

“One of the Most Reviewed Yachts – All 5-Star!”

If you’re looking for luxury and comfort with a personal touch, Suite Life is a fantastic option. This 92-foot yacht feels like a floating luxury resort, with plenty of space to relax, entertain, and explore. Even though the yacht was built in 1998, it’s been completely refitted and is meticulously maintained by the owner-operators, so it still feels fresh and modern.

The layout is super spacious, with four staterooms that can comfortably accommodate up to nine guests. The master suite is especially impressive, with its king bed, walk-in closet, and even a jacuzzi in the bathroom. Each room is decked out with smart TVs, Bluetooth stereos, and 24/7 air conditioning, making it easy to unwind in total comfort.

The crew of 4 goes above and beyond to make sure your vacation is perfect; their great service is reflected in the many positive reviews they receive from their guests , showing you the best spots in the Virgin Islands and catering to your every need.

On deck, you’ll find plenty of spots to soak in the sun, from the upper deck lounges to the oversized bow sun pad. Plus, there’s a fresh or saltwater pool up front and an expansive swim platform for easy access to snorkeling and water fun.

Overall, Suite Life delivers on its name, offering a top-tier experience with a cozy, personal feel. Perfect for anyone looking to live the suite life, if only for a while.

Can’t say enough about Suite Life Yachting! We had such a great experience on their beautiful boat with the best crew! Captain Roy, Chef Nick and Nate took such great care of us and we had everything we could possibly need or want and then some! Amazing food, delicious drinks, snorkel lessons, hike guides, you name it they delivered! The boat is gorgeous, super clean and so well maintained. Would HIGHLY recommend this charter!!”

Ready to Start Your BVI Yacht Charter Vacation?

Tell us what you want, and have one of our Brokers send you a list of Motor Yachts selected specifically for you!

8. Qara ⏐ 82 ft Horizon

• 7 breakfasts
• Happy hour canapes
• Standard ships bar, alcohol, and ships wine (anything specialty is at cost to the charterer)
• Pickup/drop off dockage
• 3 hours of cruise time daily

*Meals ashore are additional at client expense

Note: New Year’s Week = +15% on the rate

“A Classic Yacht with Michelin-Level Service”

If you are looking for a more classic yacht, this 82-foot Horizon motor yacht, Qara, might be for you. Qara underwent a full refit in 2023 , and her beautiful all-wooden interior is in excellent condition – look through the pictures to see her stunning, classic cabins.

Along with her nautical look, Qara comes with a great list of on-water activities; she’s got a Jacuzzi on the back deck next to the outdoor barbeque. She’s got all the equipment for deep-sea fishing , so you got something fresh to throw on that barbeque. And she’s got a great collection of water toys, including water skis, wakeboard, sea scooter, kayak, floating mats, snorkel gear, underwater camera, and beach games.

Captain Mark Sperber has enjoyed being on the water his whole life, from catamaran racing to working for the largest subcontractor for oil spill cleanups in the Gulf during the Deep Water Horizon recovery efforts; Mark understands how to give guests a great introduction to life on the water.

Chef Beth Basinski has spent 15 years perfecting her craft on luxury yachts, blending her love for food with a focus on wellness. Her meals are all about making you feel good, inside and out.

Stewardess/Deckhand Morgan Donovan traded NYC’s fast-paced restaurant scene—managing a Michelin Star restaurant and a top food hall—for the laid-back Caribbean. She’s all about creating a relaxed, unforgettable experience on board, with a touch of that NYC flair.

7. Indulge II ⏐ 90 ft Ferretti

All-inclusive weekly rates (usvi and bvi only):.

• 2-3 guests – $48,000
• 4-5 guests – $50,000
• 6-7 guests – $52,000
• 8-9 guests – $54,000
• 10 guests – $54,000
• Happy-Hour canapes
• Standard ships bar and snacks

*Meals ashore are additional.

Christmas & New Year Weekly Rates 2024/2025:

• Christmas: 1-8 guests $65,000
• New Year: 1-8 guests $65,000

“A Fantastic Luxury Yacht for a Fun Family Charter”

Indulge II is all about laid-back luxury and making sure everyone has a good time. Recently refitted in 2022, this 90-foot yacht feels fresh and modern, with plenty of space for up to 10 guests to spread out and relax. Families will love how comfortable and welcoming it is, with a mix of stylish interiors and cozy spots to hang out.

The real fun kicks in with the water toys—water skis, kneeboard, wake board, seabobs, sea scooter, paddleboards, snorkel gear, floating mats and a hot tub on the top deck to soak in after a day of adventure. The bow-pad is perfect for chilling out while cruising between islands, and the 20ft tender makes it super easy to explore the shore. Plus, there are electric bikes onboard for when you’re ready to hit the land in style.

6. Denise Rose ⏐ 112 ft Broward

All-inclusive weekly rates (available in the virgin islands only):.

2 guests – $60,000 4 guests – $62,000 6 guests – $64,000 8 guests – $66,000 – 9 guests – $67,000 – families with children only 10 guests – $68,000 – families with children only

Note: A 5% APA is added to cover taxes, permits, and customs clearance, plus any special requests.

DENISE ROSE

“award winning yacht with sundeck jazucci and bar”.

With DENISE ROSE, formerly Lady Sharon Gale, you get a lot for your money ! You get a highly customized 112′ Broward superyacht with classic interiors, great activities and toys, on deck Jacuzzi and fully equipped bar , and a prime crew, including a gourmet chef, at a remarkable rate!!

Interiors are designed to be welcoming, upscale yet informal, stylish and comfortable. Rich, maple paneling with a soft satin finish is featured throughout. Dining happens in the formal dining area, or al fresco with sea breezes and stunning views on the aft deck or sundeck. There is also the all-new sky lounge with JL Audio sound and LED lighting.

Guest accommodations are wonderful for extended families and groups of friends. There are 4 staterooms with 6 berths positioned on the lower deck level. The primary stateroom features a king-size bed, a cedar-lined closet, and his-and-her facilities. The VIP stateroom occupies the entire bow area and is nearly equal to the primary. It features a queen-sized bed, plenty of storage, and a sizable bathroom with shower. 2 guest staterooms are furnished with 1 double bed and 1 twin bed, so extra berths for children, single guests, or staff.

I could go on…

Denise Rose (then Lady Sharon) Won 1st Place in the 2021 VIPCA Culinary Award & Runner-Up in Best in Show

5. Blessed ⏐ 80 ft Sunreef Power Catamaran

• 2-3 guests – $90,000
• 4-5 guests – $95,000
• 6-8 guests – $100,000
• 9-10 guests – $105,000

Christmas & New Year Charter Rates:

*7 night minimum.

• Christmas 2024: 1-10 guests @ $125,000. Must end by Dec 27.
• New Year 2024: 1-10 guests @ $125,000. It may not start before Dec 29.

“Get More Space with this Brand-New Luxury Power Catamaran”

Although not technically a motor yacht, I wanted to showcase a power catamaran to demonstrate what you can expect in terms of space and amenities— comparable to a motor yacht that’s 15-20% larger . Blessed compares to a motor yacht approximately 92 to 96 feet in length.

So why choose Blessed among the many power catamarans in the Caribbean? Blessed is a brand-new, 80-foot Sunreef catamaran built in 2024 at the Sunreef factory in Gdansk. The design and construction were overseen by Tim Miller and Julie Brown, who also run the yacht as Captain and Chef, so they really know the yacht inside out!

Blessed is 80 feet long and can accommodate up to 10 guests in 5 cabins –4 masters and a double–all with en-suite bathrooms. It is ideal for a large group of friends or a big family gathering.

Blessed is truly a grand yacht both in terms of space and interior design – the main saloon and galley are like a penthouse. The best must be the flybridge, which features a Jacuzzi , a wet bar, 2 refrigerators, 2 ice makers, and a 55” smart TV. With multiple locations for sunbathing or enjoying the shade, this space is designed for ultimate relaxation (and the occasional dance party)!

Blessed’s Toy Garage easily deploys into the water from the hydraulic swim platform , providing effortless access to exciting adventures with the foils, Seabobs, or snorkeling! Or, enjoy a refreshing cocktail on the 10’ inflatable pool deck. Blessed also has SCUBA gear onboard , and Captain Tim happens to be a Dive instructor .

This catamaran is, through and through, a really amazing yacht that easily rivals a motor yacht in terms of luxury.

4. Synergy ⏐ 68 ft Sunseeker

• 2-4 guests – $77,900
• 5-6 guests – $78,900
• 7-8 guests – $79,900

Note: BVI Ports only (No USVI pick up/drop off or US charters).

All-Inclusive Rate Includes:

• Fuel (up to 3 hours of engine time per day)
• Full ships bar
• Cruising permits
• Thanksgiving week and Christmas 2024 $87,900
• New Year week 2024 $95,900/wk all-inclusive

*New Year charters cannot start before December 29, 2024. Christmas charters, including those between December 19th and 27th, must end by December 27.

“ 4-Times Award Winning Yacht in 2023″

Synergy was just awarded multiple awards in the BVI Charter Yacht Society 2023 boat show, including:

• 1st Place, ‘BEST MOTOR YACHT’
• 1st Runner-Up, ‘Best Entre,’ by Chef Audrey
• 1st Runner-Up, ‘Best Dessert,’ by Chef Audrey
• 1st Runner-Up, ‘Best Table Setting’

Synergy is an 86′ Sunseeker yacht that’s all about luxury and space. It has big windows, stylish interiors, and plenty of room thanks to its 21′ beam. Inside, you’ve got a roomy VIP suite, a full-beam master suite, and two versatile twin cabins.

On the flybridge, you have a big dining table, a wrap-around couch, and a Jacuzzi for sunset views . She cruises comfortably at 10-15 knots with a max speed of 22 knots, so she will get you to places. Plus, she has stabilizers for a smooth ride.

With a 26′ tender, seabobs, a floating cabana, and Starlink internet , it’s perfect for a high-end, connected getaway. The crew of four ensures you’ll have top-notch service throughout your charter.

We Represent You

“We do not represent the yacht; we represent you! Our aim is to match you with the right yacht and ensure that your experience is exactly what you are looking for.”

3. Angeleyes ⏐ 85 ft Horizon

• 2-6 guests – $92,675
• 7 guests – $93,830
• 8 guests – $94,985
• 9 guests – $96,140
• 10 guests – $97,295

All-Inclusive Rate Include:

Note: Angeleyes is happy to arrange private USVI water taxi transfers for $3500/round trip. The rate includes a land taxi from the airport, a private water taxi to meet Angeleyes in the BVI, and gratuity! Angeleyes will coordinate with your preferred BVI-based water taxi provider.

“Angeleyes on Netflix’s Top 10 Says It All!”

The luxury yacht Angeleyes was recently featured on Netflix’s hit series, The World’s Most Amazing Vacation Rentals , in Episode 3: Boats ‘N Floats. This episode showcases Angeleyes as the “luxury” option, with the hosts highlighting its spacious on-deck master suite, stunning outdoor spaces, and exceptional 5-star service provided by the crew.

With Angeleyes’ extra-wide beam (25’ vs. the usual 18’), the yacht offers unmatched interior space and comfort, making it ideal for groups of couples.

The episode emphasizes the personalized attention from the crew, including gourmet meals by Chef Jenn and unforgettable experiences arranged by Captain Darrel, such as private beach picnics and water sports.

Angeleyes was unanimously voted as the favorite rental by the show’s hosts , cementing its status as a top luxury charter option.

“Vacation of a Lifetime! We just got back from our epic vacation with family and friends aboard the Angeleyes Yacht! The yacht is luxuriously beautiful with its gorgeous interior. The rooms are incredibly spacious, each having its own luxurious bathroom stocked with everything you may need. The outdoor areas provided so many areas to sit and relax, eat meals with a view, or relax in the hot tub overlooking the beautiful blue waters. The staff is beyond amazing! Jen made sure we never went hungry on the table’s ever changing place settings. The food was beyond delicious. From chocolate croissants, pulled pork salads, fish tacos, to Frito pie for these Texans with hungry teenage boys. Remi made sure we were never without an activity to do or a delicious drink in our hands. He is also a very talented “merman” who can find a fish and a turtle anywhere! Darrell is an extremely knowledgeable captain who not only got us to beautiful places to anchor, but also provided us with many jokes that kept us laughing. Some of our highlights…We went snorkeling above a sunken barge and along shoreline where we saw so many colorful fish. We went swimming with sea turtles and also came across a beautiful eagle ray and a puffer fish. Remi took the kids tubing and gave them jet board lessons. Not only did we take advantage of what the ocean had to offer, we also hit up some of the hot spots on the beautiful Islands such as Soggy Dollar, Foxy’s, and The Willy T. Here, we had a blast drinking island cocktails and dancing the night away! My family can’t thank the owners and the crew of Angeleyes Yacht enough for a vacation of our lifetime! ❤️🛥”

2. Midnight Moon ⏐ 87 ft Horizon

• 2-6 guests – $82,000
• 7-8 guests – $89,500

** Charters include up to 3 hours of engine time per day.

• Christmas Week- Up to 8 guests: $98,500 inclusive plus local taxes (0% in the BVI). *Christmas charters must end by the 27th of December.
• New Year’s Week – Up to 8 guests: $102,000 inclusive plus local taxes (0% in the BVI). *New Year cannot begin earlier than the 27th of December.

MIDNIGHT MOON

“a great luxury yacht with focus on local culture – from sea to platter style cuisine”.

If you’re keen on fishing or simply relish the thrill of catching your own dinner , Midnight Moon is perfectly equipped. The yacht comes with all the necessary deep-sea fishing gear, complemented by a crew who are both skilled in fishing and passionate about cooking your catch.

The reason I put Midnight Moon this high on the list is because it is a really fantastic all-around yacht with everything you need for a 1-week or more luxury charter vacation with a real taste of the Caribbean. With 1 master and 3 VIP cabins accommodating up to 8 guests, she is a great option for a group of friends or a family trip.

She’s got a swim platform, a sweet water toy collection, a deck Jacuzzi , a great crew of 3, and a fantastic seafood-focused menu . You are in for a real Caribbean treat!

1. Stay Salty ⏐ 135 ft Horizon

All-inclusive weekly rate:.

• $163,000 (BVI only)
• Full crew and fuel
• Set menu and snacks
• Water, fresh juices, coffee, tea and non-alcoholic refreshments
• Ships bar with selected wine, beer, and liquor
• Airport transfers
• Personal laundry
• Use of water toys equipment
• 60gallons of fuel for Jet skis
• Full tank of fuel for Tender
• Massages and beauty treatments
• Wellness retreat – ice bath
• High-speed Internet
• Local taxes
• 10% crew gratuity
• Local fishing guide – $500/ day

“This Yacht has EVERYTHING Luxury + a Very Flexible Cabin Layout!”

There are many reasons why I have selected this yacht as number 1 on the list: At 135 feet and three decks high, it has all the space needed for a big group charter without feeling crowded at all. Plus, she accommodates 12 guests , which is perfect for a big group of friends or two families sharing a luxury charter.

The interior is simply stunning—classic, elegant, and bright . The light wood, white carpets, and chic furniture create a modern, airy vibe, topped off by a gorgeous chandelier that adds a touch of glam.

The cabins are equally impressive. With a master suite, four VIPs, and one twin, there’s plenty of room to spread out and storage space is more than ample–I honestly don’t think you can overpack for this yacht vacation.

The flybridge is fantastic on Stay Salty; there is both a seating area, sunbathing loungers, and a fully equipped bar . There is another bar inside, so you don’t have to walk far for a cocktail.

With a crew of 8, including a masseuse offering massages anywhere on the yacht or even on the beach, you’re in for some serious pampering.

In conclusion, this yacht is absolutely brilliant!

Browse All Motor Yacht Charters Available in the BVI

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Why Charter Guests Love These 5 Luxury Catamarans – BVI Catamaran Charter Reviews

So, who are we.

At DMA Yachting, we are proud to have a team of individuals with real on-water experience. Many of our brokers have worked or lived on yachts and crossed oceans.

This firsthand experience allows us to truly understand life at sea, both from the perspectives of crew and guests and the details that make a luxury yacht charter an exceptional experience.

We closely inspect yachts and meet in person with captains and crew to ensure every element of the charter meets our high standards.

Our yearly participation in yacht shows like the BVI Yacht Show and the USVI Yacht Show helps us stay on top of industry trends and client needs.

We are here to guide you through every step of your charter, from the moment you reach out to the moment your yacht charter ends.

Here is How You Book Your BVI Yacht Charter

Mark rubini.

Mar 26, 2024

The 55 Bali was great as we were the first paying customers. Beautiful boat with plenty of room. The Captain and first mate were great. Food was top notch and so good that we opted to not do 1 shore dinner and just ate on the boat. We saw and did everything that we set out to see. I would repeat in a heartbeat.

Read More Reviews On TrustPilot…

Mar 16, 2024

Communication was the key to our successful trip. Chris at DMA Yachting kept us informed about what to expect, upcoming payments, etc. He was on top of the one hiccup we had and really turned a negative into a positive. Would definitely us them again.

What Our Clients Say

Our clients speak of unparalleled service, exquisite yachts, and a seamless booking process, highlighting the excellence of their charter experiences in the British Virgin Islands.

Booking a crewed yacht charter in the British Virgin Islands with us is easy—just contact one of our Expert Charter Brokers and tell us what you want!

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