Location: Hong Kong · Yacht: Ferretti Navetta 33 · Client: for Burgess · Status: Delivered Scope: RINA-approved emergency hull and diesel tank composite repairs
The challenge
M/Y Kerry, a 33 m Ferretti Navetta, needed urgent composite repairs to her hull and diesel tank in Hong Kong. The time frame was tight: the team had to travel, find the right materials locally and complete a structural repair that would satisfy both the classification society and the insurers.
What we did
- Assessment: surveyed the damaged hull and tank areas to find the full extent of the damage.
- Repair plan: agreed the repair method with the RINA surveyor.
- Vacuum bagging: laminated the repairs under vacuum, which consolidates the plies, removes excess resin and air, and gives the strongest adhesion to the existing laminate.
- Reporting: regular, detailed schedules and work reports so the captain, Burgess and the surveyors always knew where the job stood.
- Finishing: repaired areas were faired and finished ready for service.
The result
The repairs were approved by RINA, and the class and insurance surveyors were satisfied with all the work. The job was finished within the tight schedule.
Captain Lance Dawson wrote afterwards:
"I would like to thank Scott Taylor and his team for the impressive work done completing GRP repairs on our Ferretti Navetta 33. The challenge of a tight time frame to arrive, find the required materials and do the work was met with smiles, laughter and professionalism."
Why vacuum bagging matters
On a structural repair, adhesion between the new laminate and the existing structure is everything. Vacuum consolidation presses the plies together evenly and pulls out trapped air and excess resin, which hand lay-up alone can't guarantee. On a fuel tank, the repair must also stay sound in contact with diesel, so material choice and cure are critical. More on composite repair.
Project at a glance
| Yacht | M/Y Kerry, Ferretti Navetta 33 m |
|---|---|
| Location | Hong Kong |
| Scope | Emergency hull and diesel tank composite repair |
| Method | Vacuum bagging |
| Class | RINA approved |
| Status | Delivered |
What this means for other owners
Composite damage is rarely convenient. A team that can travel quickly, work with the surveyor from day one and keep everyone informed limits the time a yacht is out of service. The same team also fairs and paints the repair, so there is no wait between contractors.
Frequently asked questions
Can you do class-approved composite repairs outside the UK?
Yes. M/Y Kerry in Hong Kong was RINA approved. We work with RINA, Lloyd's Register, Bureau Veritas and ABS surveyors.
Can you repair fuel tanks?
Yes. The M/Y Kerry job included a diesel tank composite repair.
Will you also paint the repair?
Yes. We fair and paint repaired areas to blend with the surrounding finish.
Related: Superyacht painting Hong Kong · Composite repair · References · Contact · info@yachtrefitasia.com · +66 (0)80 829 0122
Superyacht Painters Ltd, The Clock House, Western Court, Bishop's Sutton, Alresford, England SO24 0AA · +66 (0)80 829 0122 · info@yachtrefitasia.com