Superyacht sector turns to Non-Destructive Technology to sure up maintenance effectiveness

The superyacht sector stands out for its unique demands and high standards.  Owners of these luxurious vessels prioritise maintaining their assets in pristine condition, not only for the love of the sea but also for the substantial investments they have made.

Yachts are unique in that, unlike the commercial marine space, where vessels have a relatively finite and expected lifespan of around 30 years before being retired and scrapped, yachts are rarely retired.  Owners aim to extend their yachts' lifespan for as long as possible, and it is not uncommon to see vessels still operating from the first half of the 20th Century.

In this context, there must be a strong focus on proactive maintenance to ensure yachts remain in both pristine condition and, importantly, in a state fit enough to continue operating safely and effectively.  This is where advanced technology, such as Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) offered by The Lab at Brookes Bell, emerges as a pivotal tool, providing a proactive and non-intrusive way to help yacht owners stay ahead in keeping their vessels in top form.

 “One of the biggest advantages of Brookes Bell’s NDT technology is that it allows us to inspect the condition of the steel underneath the teak decks without the need for removal,” says Karley Smith, Managing Master Mariner in our Liverpool office. 

“In the past, the industry had to rip up the teak to conduct these inspections, which was not only invasive but also costly.  With our NDT services, we can save owners significant amounts of money and prevent unnecessary damage to the vessel.”

Proactive vs.  Reactive Maintenance

Traditionally, much of the maintenance work in the superyacht sector has been reactive, addressing issues as they arise.  However, there is a growing emphasis on proactive maintenance, where potential problems are identified and addressed before they escalate.

Proactive maintenance not only extends the lifespan of the vessel but also enhances safety and reliability.  It allows owners to plan maintenance schedules around their cruising plans, avoiding inconvenient and possibly costly disruptions.  This is especially relevant for charterers, where having to undertake sudden structural repairs and letting down clients at short notice could have significant reputational and financial implications.

Andrew Waller, Senior Inspection Engineer in the NDT department also notes, “By employing NDT technology, yacht owners can gain a comprehensive understanding of their vessel's condition without having to disrupt its structure.  This means that owners can plan future maintenance cycles around key dates, avoiding unexpected repairs.  The ability to maintain the integrity of the vessel while simultaneously ensuring cost-effective maintenance is a game changer,”.

The Role of Non-Destructive Testing

One of the primary advantages of NDT is its ability to assess the integrity of materials without causing any damage to the vessel.  This aspect is particularly crucial in the superyacht sector, where both aesthetic and structural integrity are paramount.

“In the superyacht sector, preserving the vessel’s appearance is as important as its structural soundness,” Karley points out.  “With our NDT services, owners can get detailed insights into the condition of the steel beneath the surface layers of paint, filler, and teak.  We can map out corrosion trends and determine how much steel remains, all without needing to remove or damage any part of the vessel.”

This foresight translates into more efficient overall management of the vessel.  When preparing for major inspections or refurbishments, NDT becomes an invaluable tool.  “NDT provides a proactive approach to vessel maintenance.  With our technology, we can create digital twins of the yachts, allowing owners to visually understand their vessel's condition.  This visualisation aids in planning and decision-making, helping avoid extensive and often unnecessary repair works,” adds Karley.

Supporting the Future of the Superyacht Sector

As the superyacht sector continues to embrace new and innovative technology, NDT stands out as a tool that can significantly reduce unplanned maintenance and keep day-to-day operations unhindered.  The cost-saving benefits, enhanced planning, and overall vessel integrity make NDT an essential asset for the sector's future.

Andrew concludes: “At Brookes Bell, we’re not just offering a service; we’re providing a solution that helps owners preserve their investments while maintaining their vessels in top condition.  Our NDT technology, combined with the expertise of our highly trained team at The Lab, puts us at the forefront of the industry.  It’s about being proactive and giving owners the tools they need to manage their yachts effectively and economically.”

By integrating state-of-the-art technologies and expert knowledge, Brookes Bell is leading the way in offering innovative maintenance solutions for the superyacht sector.  Our NDT services enable vessel owners to plan and prepare for their scheduled maintenance more effectively, keeping costs and downtime to a minimum and, importantly, ensuring that these prized assets remain in pristine condition.