INTERNATIONAL Marine News
URGENT PRODUCT RECALL: Hutchwilco inflatable lifejacket New Zealand lifejacket manufacturer Hutchwilco has launched
a product recall of its 170N lifejackets manufactured from June 2021 to May 2022. The recall follows an advisory from the manufacturer’s American supplier, Halkey Roberts, of a potential failure during testing of the green/red indicator. The recall is due to an occasional issue that only affects some units. Though the firing pin mechanism still functions, the indicator may show that the lifejacket is ready for use when in fact it isn’t due to the cylinder not being screwed in properly or the cylinder being damaged. The lifejacket may not inflate if this happens.
Spanish marine market looks mixed Jordi Carrasco, director general of ANEN – National
Association of Nautical Companies, reveals a mixed bag for the Spanish marine sector.
The national nautical market has been stabilising since 2023, following the growth experienced during the covid pandemic and the following year.
Currently the data for recreational boat registrations in Spain is around 2019 figures, and with more pronounced descents in certain length segments. In particular, the market for smaller boats up to 6 metres, jet skis and folding inflatable boats has been challenging. Consumer confidence is yet to fully return with new boats, with construction and chartering still feeling the pinch.
In the case of the charter segment, competition from other charter destinations along with increased recreational options and general economic uncertainty has negatively impacted the Spanish sector.
Marinas, refit and repair sectors, maintenance companies and marine equipment suppliers are faring much better. Thanks to its strategic geographical location and the high-quality services available, Spain is a key destination for boat repair and maintenance and this sector is performing positively. Consolidated Spanish shipyards enjoy international recognition, and we are witnessing the emergence of new projects that contribute to diversifying and strengthening our offering. This positions Spain as a benchmark in the Mediterranean for the construction, maintenance and refit of vessels.
Since 2023 sailboat registrations have fallen below motorboat registrations, by an average of -12 per cent. However, as a trend, the hobby of sailing in Spain, especially in the north of Spain, continues to grow in popularity.
There are several key trends in the current Spanish nautical market. A trend towards larger boats and customisation is apparent. Customers are increasingly looking for boats that can be adapted to their specific needs and tastes, with high quality finishes and increased comfort. ANEN reports that sales of new and used boats were down by 20 per cent in the first six months of 2024 to 3,047 units. But sales of large boats over 16m were up by 21 per cent.
Sales of boats under 6m, including jet skis, saw a 23.7 per cent year-on-year drop to just over 2,000 units sold by around October 2024.
If the mechanism on your lifejacket is a Halkey Roberts v96000, go to the website at
https://bit.ly/40M3dsN for details of what to do next.
Gibdock launches superyacht services division in Gibraltar
Gibdock has introduced Gibdock Yachting, a new division focused on supporting business growth in the superyacht sector for its Gibraltar-based ship repair and maintenance yard.
The new superyacht services division will leverage Gibdock’s experience in superyacht maintenance and refitting and also collaborate with BWA Yachting, a superyacht agency and service provider.
“Gibdock Yachting will bring unparalleled dedication and professionalism to every project, ranging from routine maintenance and certification dockings to large-scale refits, offering yacht managers and owners the quality of work and time management service levels available to a top-class repair yard,” says John Barnard, commercial director at Gibdock.
THE REPORT | MAR 2025 | ISSUE 111 | 13
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