An industry organization has launched an online tool to help megayacht captains, owners, and fleet managers better select refit yards.
The ICOMIA Superyacht Refit Group website does more than just list facilities around the world. It requires members to adhere to basic good-business principles and ethics. It also sets forth a standard contract outlining all responsibilities.
The goals are directly in line with those of ICOMIA, the International Council of Marine Industry Associations. Founded in 1967, ICOMIA strives to formulate common policies, break down barriers to trade, and promote awareness of yachting, including safety.
So far ICOMIA Superyacht Refit Group includes the following refit yards: Amico & Co., in Italy; Astilleros de Mallorca, in Spain; Compositeworks (above), in France; International Technic Marine, also in France; Marina Barcelona 92 (a.k.a. MB92), in Spain; Monaco Marine, in France; Pinmar, in Spain and the United States; and Rybovich, in the United States.
So what do the good-business principles and ethics mean? They require that the shipyards follow ISO 9001 procedures and have financial transparency. To the latter, they are required to follow proper financial accounting practices and are independent businesses that do not have ties to other service providers and therefore have a conflict of interest. They also must have experience working with the various flag states and classification societies.
In reference to the standard contract, it was developed with input from leading international maritime lawyers. It spells out outlining everything from whether subcontractors are used to warranty and insurance details.
Leave a Reply