At 43 metres, moving the superyacht Hetairos out of the refit bay at Southampton Yacht Services was always going to be a spectacle. Gleaming in her new livery of jet black with gold trim, she is even more spectacular than when she arrived in October 2010, a fitting tribute to her original builders, Abeking & Rasmussen.
The winter refit at the yard encompassed the removal of the 6.5 ton, 7.5m long bronze centreboard and all accompanying control systems, service work to the rudder, winches and windlass servicing and a thorough service of the main engine, shaft and propeller.
The removal of the centreboard and service of the beautifully designed control mechanism – all in bronze – was an intriguing challenge. Years of extensive cruising, and latterly some racing, had exacted its toll, but the fundamentals of the systems remained sound and having removed all the components from the keel box and serviced the two 30-ton hydraulic rams and control system she has returned to the water as good as new.
A fabulous paint job on the topsides, masts and spars and a major rig overhaul has ensured this elegant Bruce King design is ready for a summer season cruising the Mediterranean.
Southampton Yacht Services
+44 (0)23 8033 5266
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www.southamptonyachtservices.co.uk