Several superyacht shipyards occasionally perform refits, even though it’s not the company’s primary focus. But when there’s an opportunity to formally create a service division, it’s wise to take action. That’s what Royal Huisman has done with the creation of Huisfit.
Having performed refits before, Royal Huisman was confident its craftspeople were properly skilled. However, it still wanted to assess whether both new builds and refits could be undertaken simultaneously without placing stress on its resources, human and otherwise. A study of operations, including recent investments in its facilities, revealed they could. The investments include the opening in 2009 of a new building with dedicated office space for project managers and crew. Royal Huisman also computerized its stock room, placing barcodes on every part. Parts are scanned when placed on or taken off a shelf, and the barcode further contains information on how much the part weighs, important in both new-builds and refits.
The new Huisfit division will handle both power and sailing yachts, from a variety of builders. In fact, this winter it handled the Lloyds recertification of the 33-meter (107-foot) Karyatis, a sportfisherman built by Heesen. In addition, given the yard’s experience with the restoration of the famed J Class yacht Endeavour, classic-yacht refits will also be available. Services include interior modifications, deck refurbishments and/or replacements, machinery inspection and repair, hull and superstructure repairs and modifications, and spars and rigging repair. Class survey and inspection will also be available.
Bert Tromp, the service and refit manager, and Evert van Dishoeck, the yard’s commercial manager, will handle all inquiries. Once a refit project is booked, Royal Huisman will also assign a dedicated project manager. Every two weeks, the project manager will send the captain or owner’s project manager both progress and financial updates. Furthermore, Royal Huisman will partner with facilities elsewhere in Holland on a case-by-case basis, in accordance with captains’ and owners’ wishes.
While Huisfit is still in its infancy, Royal Huisman says various project managers, captains, and engineers are “seriously interested.”
For full details on Huisfit, see the online Huisfit brochure.
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