10 best practices for a successful superyacht refit


By Xavier Mercado, CEO and founder, ptw Shipyard


Refits are part and parcel of the life cycle of every superyacht. This is a project that every captain, owner and crew member will experience at some point in their superyacht story. Whether it’s a repair, rehaul or renovation, refits are always major undertakings and can easily overrun on timing and costs if not managed correctly. Xavier Mercado Rabella, CEO of ptw Shipyard in Tarragona – Spain, gives us his top 10 expert tips for ensuring a successful superyacht refit.


Xavier considers a superyacht refit to be successful when it is completed on time, within an agreed budget and to an acceptable standard. He explains that Superyachts are continuously growing in complexity and intricacy, so best practices are vital to a successful conclusion. Throughout every stage of the superyacht refit process, from specification to delivery, a positive synergy between owner teams and the shipyard must be maintained to ensure that the work is carried out in an effective and efficient manner. From his extensive experience with superyacht refits, these are his top 10 best practices.


1 Preparation


Preparation is the first step in any successful refit and probably the most crucial step in the entire process. Careful preparation is key and can eliminate the vast majority of issues, delays and budget overruns in any superyacht refit. It is important to ensure that you stay focused on the goal and that everyone involved is on point and clear about what is expected. Draw up a worklist and consider the possibility to include other essential maintenance or works such as annual surveys or painting so as to maximise your shipyard visit.


Ensure that you begin your planning early and with more than enough


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time to realise the entire project. Know exactly what your vessel needs, be realistic and have a clear understanding of what is required to realize the project. Refits are never a “just wing it” situation and a full plan should be set in stone before your arrival at the shipyard. Owner, captain, crew and shipyard should all be on the same page and have a clear understanding of the end goal.


Organisation


Once you have ascertained what needs to be achieved in the refit you need to begin organising the


entire project. Superyacht refits often involve a number of mini-projects and ensuring that each step is carefully planned and organised can ensure a smooth flow and best use of shipyard and contractors time thus reducing costs and maintaining deadlines.


While it’s fair to say that refits can be notorious for churning up the unexpected, looking at the big picture goes a long way to reducing the possibility of unwanted surprises. Assess the yacht’s needs from a realistic point of view because fully understanding the vessel is your best indicator to possible hiccups which may be encountered.


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