New Zealand

Oceania Marine Limited

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2319" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceania Marine Limited (Company)">Oceania Marine</a> has announced the launch of a new 560 tonne marine travel lift at its South Shipyard in Port Whangārei, New Zealand. The new machine is one of New Zealand’s biggest marine travel lifts and also establishes <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2319" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceania Marine Limited (Company)">Oceania Marine</a> as one of the South Pacific’s premiere refit and repair destinations for superyachts.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/250018/image/large-5583af33b9b82181ffc043b091bfcd64.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/250018">The new marine travel lift is used for lifting and transporting vessels onto the hardstand at the South Shipyard and will increase the shipyard's ability to service yachts from 100 tonnes to 560 tonnes. The new machine complements <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2319" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceania Marine Limited (Company)">Oceania Marine</a>’s existing 100 tonne machine and will provide cost efficient, flexible haul-out options for recreational and commercial operators.The launch of the lift also marked the opening of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2319" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceania Marine Limited (Company)">Oceania Marine</a>’s Business Hub for use by other marine industry colleagues as well as the launch of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2319" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceania Marine Limited (Company)">Oceania</a> Yacht Agency.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/250215/image/large-baa60b65981d91f9c4de6b81d1ac4c64.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/250215">“With both the 100T and 560T machines in operation, the extensive hardstand and undercover refit facilities available at South Shipyard will be an attractive option for yachts,” commented <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2319" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceania Marine Limited (Company)">Oceania Marine</a> Managing Director, Martin Gleeson.“With this new marine lift, we have the ability for multiple ships to be worked on at one time, it opens potential for new jobs and apprenticeships, and it creates jobs in support industries.”As well as increasing the level of service provided by the shipyard, the new lift has helped to fund civil works at the South Shipyard. This includes new piers, hardstand reinforcements and other works.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/250216/image/large-6ea11ca5ff64e77dc25dfda262aed3ba.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/250216">In 2019, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2319" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceania Marine Limited (Company)">Oceania Marine</a> was approved for a loan of up to $5.84 million AUS from the Government’s Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) to buy the 560-tonne capability travel lift and complete the supporting civil works.“The boat and ship maintenance, repair, and overhaul market is highly lucrative, so our investment in this sector has the potential to be transformational for the region’s economy, as well as providing high pay, highly skilled apprenticeship and employment opportunities for Whangārei,” added Robert Pigou, Head of Kanoa – Regional Economic Development &amp; Investment Unit.

Oceania Marine launches new 560 tonne lift

New Zealand-based Oceania Marine has announced the launch of a new 560T marine travel lift at its South Shipyard in Port Whangārei, New Zealand.

New Zealand-based Oceania Marine acquires new 560T yacht lift for refit and repairs

When it comes to making the most out of life, there are a certain number of people who we can all agree have cracked the formula. Whether that’s through managing to achieve the ever-so-elusive ‘work/life balance’, seizing every possible opportunity to travel, spending plenty of time out and about in your natural environment or finding a way to make your passion into your work, it has to be said that Simon Greenwood and Charlotte Devereux have really hit the sweet spot. Naturally, it doesn’t do any harm to their achievement of this goal that their native land happens to be New Zealand: a country renowned for its verdant hills, craggy landscapes, breathtaking mountains and, of course, its incredible array of islands and beaches. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/114602/image/large-712b1176fad64589910a67d68db07769.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/114602">As of just over a year ago, Simon and Charlotte became the happy owners of the classic, 30.53-metre motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4422" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sea Breeze III30.53m (100'2&quot;)Millkraft Boatyard Pty1976">Sea Breeze III</a>, which was originally built by the Australian shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2728" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Millkraft Boatyard Pty (Company)">Millkraft Boatyard</a> as Ulysses in 1976 for Keith Williams and later owned by New Zealand’s wealthiest individual, businessman and serial yacht owner Graeme Hart (she was the first of Hart’s boats to bear the name of Ulysses and he has upsized considerably since then). It was her classic looks which first drew the pair to the boat, now called <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4422" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sea Breeze III30.53m (100'2&quot;)Millkraft Boatyard Pty1976">Sea Breeze III</a>, after they first found her online and took a trip to scout her out at Rivergate Marina in Brisbane, Australia.&nbsp;“When we were looking at all these beautiful heritage boats, it started off as more of a hobby, but it soon became a real passion for us”, explains Charlotte.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/109169/image/large-321608fa5ac3cca4e87541e2719c4d1e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/109169">Both growing up with boating in the blood (keen sailor Simon was a grinder during New Zealand’s first America’s Cup challenge on KZ3, 5 and 7), it was partially the process itself of finding the perfect boat to restore which appealed to the couple and it was an experience with which Charlotte was familiar from her own family. “We have a heritage boat that we have restored, a little sailing boat called Turakina as well as a gorgeous old traditional tug boat. In my family, we are a bit crazy for restoring these boats and probably spending far too much money on them, so much so that you go, ‘God, it would be so much easier just doing a modern one!’ But we are always just drawn to these beautiful old boats.” When they actively started looking for their dream restoration project, they weren’t in a rush. As Charlotte explains: “We thought that this might be an adventure that takes a year but could also take two years or even longer because part of the romance of it was to go on this wonderful journey to find this beautiful boat, and within a year we found her, we were so lucky.”&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/114593/image/large-66c89ce1751bee32a41393de22cf277c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/114593">Once they saw her classic lines sitting there in the marina, they were hooked.&nbsp;“We went and saw her and fell in love - nothing else came up which could compare.”&nbsp;Reflecting on it now, getting to the stage of actually owning <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4422" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sea Breeze III30.53m (100'2&quot;)Millkraft Boatyard Pty1976">Sea Breeze III</a> was something of a rollercoaster experience for the pair. “The boat was going up for auction and my mother was in the hospital at the time and very sick, so we were bidding whilst we were in the hospital. It was one of those situations where we had no idea if we were actually going to end up with her and we couldn’t believe it in the end when we did become owners of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4422" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sea Breeze III30.53m (100'2&quot;)Millkraft Boatyard Pty1976">Sea Breeze III</a>!” Although as of our interview in early 2020, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4422" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sea Breeze III30.53m (100'2&quot;)Millkraft Boatyard Pty1976">Sea Breeze III</a> is undergoing major refit works at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2319" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceania Marine Limited (Company)">Oceania Marine</a> in Whangarei in order to prepare her for her first charter season beginning this April/May, she was in excellent shape at the time of purchase. This can be considered something of a rarity in a classic boat, as refit-manager Simon explains. “Well-maintained boats of her history and of that ilk don’t appear very often. She was built to a very high spec and has had a lot of money spent on her to keep her in that sort of condition.”&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/114598/image/large-d2b6684122c59e8699977c283888690e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/114598">Boat bought, Charlotte and Simon could now launch into the next stage of their plan, and the primary reason for purchasing <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4422" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sea Breeze III30.53m (100'2&quot;)Millkraft Boatyard Pty1976">Sea Breeze III</a> in the first place: their new business, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5710" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Boutique Superyacht Charter (Company)">Boutique Superyachts</a>. Both evidently possessing more than a little of that entrepreneurial spirit and having enjoyed success across various different industries between them (Simon:&nbsp;“I’ve never really worked for anyone else since finishing university. I’ve always wanted to create something and be my own boss and Charlie is exactly the same”), the idea of setting their boat up for boutique Kiwi charter experiences found its roots in Charlotte’s hospitality background.<img src="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/uploads/store/photo/114599/image/large-939f524be37c2aa04905a9cc6f448cb2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/114599">“When I was 23, I founded a boutique hotel which I ran for six years. Within the hotel, we had 12 rooms that were all individually decorated by different country themes. At the time, I wanted to bring my love of entertaining and hospitality to make a really amazing and personal experience for our guests. So I had the desire to create a similar concept with&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4422" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sea Breeze III30.53m (100'2&quot;)Millkraft Boatyard Pty1976">Sea Breeze III</a>: a boutique floating hotel on the water. I thought it would be amazing to create this new platform and to do something quite different from what everyone else was doing in the market.”&nbsp;Indeed, although the boat herself may be traditional in looks - the couple has taken pains to maintain many of the motor yacht’s original features, including rejuvenating her mahogany interiors - the charter experience offered on board <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4422" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sea Breeze III30.53m (100'2&quot;)Millkraft Boatyard Pty1976">Sea Breeze III</a> is anything but. As Charlotte sees it, “the heritage gives her a quirkiness and a sense of history and then we modernise her by bringing in the latest equipment and amenities. We are able to mould the two together in order to bring something a little bit new to the picture.”&nbsp;<img src="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/uploads/store/photo/114594/image/large-eb2e64cb742fa37a906ba6d32e81ed97.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/114594">This ethos finds its way into every aspect of the charter experience. “We do have a formal dining room but today’s guests want to have their meals as outdoor experiences with great music and good vibes and don’t feel like sitting indoors in a stuffy and old fashioned setting. In terms of cuisine, we didn’t want to do all of the fiddly three-course meals with full butler service either. I see some beautifully arranged food on yachts on Instagram but it’s all very contrived. We are more interested in serving SLOW food: food which is seasonal, local, organic and whole.”&nbsp;Of course, as this is a charter experience which is clearly aimed at breaking through to a younger (dare I say, millennial) generation who may never have previously considered spending any time on board a superyacht, vegan options and plenty of yoga are definitely on the cards.&nbsp;“You can do morning yoga to great beats on our special yoga deck and have massages and reiki crystal healing; you can enjoy the incredible scenery in one bay and then the next morning you’re somewhere else, or you can have amazing parties with fantastic DJs. Sometimes I don’t think people realise that superyachts can be so much more than the formal, white-glove service experience.”&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/114589/image/large-2872229b0a4d405d690d6de1016577b8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/114589">Although Charlotte and Simon’s passion for their new endeavour emanates from them in conversation, it is also clear that there is also considerably more to this than just a pipe dream. Behind the foundation of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5710" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Boutique Superyacht Charter (Company)">Boutique Superyachts</a> lies their very canny homing in on a niche area. Simon explains: “We’ve done a very detailed business plan taking into account the competition in the area, the costs and the opportunities because we’re not going to go into something like this and spend all this money without figuring out whether it’s worth it or not.”&nbsp;Charlotte continues, “in New Zealand, there isn’t a huge amount available for charter in the size of our boat: there are some at the smaller end of the market, but not really in our range. It initially started off as a dream and as we started delving into it, we saw that there was a big gap in the market. We wanted to find the perfect boat so we could restore something that had a great heritage and story and create a really unique offering for both the NZ market but also for our international guests - especially with the America’s Cup coming up.”<img src="/uploads/store/photo/114591/image/large-ecb33c1d79905ec7a6d15ba48cc4d0a3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/114591">Before commencing the refit works which have taken her off the water since last August (and include work to the engine room, the guest bathrooms, crew quarters, a new hydrotherapy spa pool and a new all-teak upper deck to accommodate the weight of the up to 99 charter guests who will be able to travel on board for day trips), Simon and Charlotte decided that the best way to fine-tune the experience they want to offer their charter guests was to test it out for themselves. To this end, they spent the whole of last summer cruising around New Zealand with family and friends and making unforgettable memories: memories which will inform the travel itineraries for their first batch of charter guests. Charlotte explains:&nbsp;“There are so many incredible places to explore in our back yard. When we were there last summer, we actually couldn’t believe it. Even though as a child, I grew up going to many of these places on holiday, we just feel so blessed to have these beautiful places on our doorstep. Think of the Bay of Islands, that is still very much untouched, with the most stunning water and you are constantly surrounded by sea life like orcas and dolphins. You can go into these bays and not see a single boat, it is so different from Europe where it can be so busy. You can be the only one in the bay if you want, or you can go ashore to Russell and Waiheke, for example, where there is a lot of buzz and where they have gorgeous little restaurants and stylish boutiques. You can be as remote or not as you like, it just depends on the experience the guest is after.”&nbsp;<img src="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/uploads/store/photo/114595/image/large-6ca6ea34d01c76b42afd234d9c0874cb.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/114595">With her base amongst the America’s Cup yachts in Auckland City’s Viaduct Harbour - putting her in prime position for international visitors when the event kicks off next March - it is a short trip of no more than an hour at cruising speed for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4422" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sea Breeze III30.53m (100'2&quot;)Millkraft Boatyard Pty1976">Sea Breeze III</a> to reach so many must-see local spots on the Hauraki Gulf including the active volcano of Rangitoto where visitors can enjoy beautiful walks to the summit - and the list goes on. Above all, it is an authentic experience of true Kiwi hospitality that Simon and Charlotte are keen to pass on to their guests, and it is the ability to balance the business and family elements of their boat that makes this such an exciting venture for the pair. “It is incredible that we can do both: have a business but also an amazing family beach house - a home on the water,” says Charlotte. Going forward, as the first charter season approaches this spring, the pair are now looking to hire captain and crew to help them out, as, unfortunately, non-yachting life has to intervene sometimes (“Simon does have another job - much as he would love to skipper the boat himself full time!”).<img src="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/uploads/store/photo/114590/image/large-fe3a3d5b72a9f01b61bec68aca6f73d7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/114590">Finally, we say our goodbyes and I leave Simon and Charlotte sitting on their balcony to do “a little bit of work”, golden Labrador at their feet, before jumping into the pool with their six kids as they look forward to a busy and exciting first charter season on board their very special superyacht. As the very epitome of joie de vivre, who wouldn’t want to join them?<img src="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/uploads/store/photo/114587/image/large-15b60e115bcbc8209caa37e7e8db015d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/114587">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title=""><img src="/uploads/store/photo/55401/image/large-6524e9c9dfc37e22bf131ecc39bea57e.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/55401"></a> This article was first featured in The SuperYacht Times newspaper. <a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription">Subscribe</a> now to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue.

Simon Greenwood and Charlotte Devereux on life on board Sea Breeze III

Yacht owners Simon Greenwood and Charlotte Devereux share their experience since becoming owners of the 31m yacht Sea Breeze III.

Insight: Simon Greenwood and Charlotte Devereux on owning Sea Breeze III

The 40.36-metre superyacht Be Mine (ex; Leonora) has been relaunched in New Zealand following a major refit at Oceania Marine’s facilities in Port Whangarei. The 12 week refit saw the Lürssen vessel undergo a full superstructure repaint as well as electrical, engineering, fabrication, survey and other painting works.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/166183/image/large-2e504a5730b78bf9b8b30813cb36502b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/166183">

“I congratulate everyone involved on putting this project together then executing it to achieve what has to be an excellent outcome for the owner. I spoke to skipper Mikael Andersson and he said we have a great team and have done a great job. Like almost any refit, unexpected works emerged but the team adapted and kept things on track,” commented Oceania Marine Managing Director Martin Gleeson.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/166184/image/large-a1fd243bdad435892de9e03afffb8ce2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/166184">

Launched in 1991, Be Mine underwent her last significant refit in 2012 at Dutch yard Royal Huisman, where she underwent a paint job of underwater body, steel hull and superstructure; construction work including updates to sun deck, main deck and portholes; replacement of teak decks; service work to board systems; interior modifications including updates to upholstery; updates to electronics (entertainment, navigation and communication) and to electrics.

The 40m Lürssen superyacht Be Mine relaunched after refit

It is not often that we are able to get an insight into the operations of a superyacht mothership and her accompanying support vessel. An extension commonly reserved for some of the most private of private yachts, we are now able to take you on an inside tour of what this double luxury lifestyle experience consists of. The two members of Vantage Fleet, the 45.7 metre Vantage and 53.3 metre Ad-Vantage, joined up for the first time in December last year and are now available for charter in the South Pacific to the ultimate thrill-seeking and most adventurous of guests.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/159632/image/large-48559b8fa4be51eddffd9f7bc611392e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/159632">

 

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/159633/image/large-8923a6a224000c2fd6b9733bc85c45bf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/159633">

 

Spanning a total of 99 metres in length, the Palmer Johnson superyacht Vantage and Damen-built support vessel Ad-Vantage together make for the perfect blend of luxury, speed, comfort and functionality. The pair offer guests endless possibilities ranging from comfy outdoor cinema experiences and fine dining events to captivating exploration missions and fun-filled family days on the water. Currently based in Tahiti, the fleet is available for charter as a pair or separately depending on guests’ lifestyle needs.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/159634/image/large-9d87b95d08044b28c1cfa32ba53f782e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/159634">

 

Vantage was designed for guests to enjoy the life outdoors with open end sloping aft decks making for a good mix of indoor and outdoor spaces. The flybridge offers a panoramic view and boasts a Jacuzzi with sun loungers, a dining area and a large seating area in the shade with a pop up flat screen television.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/159635/image/large-74e6294e67ab507b18811ce6dacf50fd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/159635">

 

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/159636/image/large-1daec74726757ff6c0a13684e3cdf466.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/159636">

 

Having undergone a refit period at Oceania Marine in New Zealand early in 2015, the 2010-built Vantage is in top condition. Her 12 guests are accommodated for across five staterooms with the master suite located on main deck forward. The suite comprises of a lobby, and inside the suite, a study area to starboard and seating area to port.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/159637/image/large-7a35a53688356c2e1a6ef2e648ee2959.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/159637">

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/159638/image/large-9073cabcf740a32be1db16a6b305095e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/159638">

The main saloon brings the sunshine inside with plenty of natural light and sweeping full length windows in the dining room. The master cabin offers a wonderful shaded cocoon and throughout the architecture is complemented by a bright and natural interior finished with a mixture of textures and fun elements.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/159639/image/large-bfee9d601d15366c83d22dc6d05444f7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/159639">

 

 

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/159640/image/large-9ffd6da91a9258f16e24f03118de5b9a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/159640">

 

Once anchored, Vantage transforms into the ideal island of fun with easy access into the water from the swim platform and a garage filled with watersport gear.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/159641/image/large-ff227857bb708e48c2651f996b0475a0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/159641">

 

 

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/159642/image/large-9dc8c4f6bb4d22847c155dfcf676f224.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/159642">

 

What Vantage lacks in toy-carrying capabilities, Ad-Vantage more than makes up for in open deck space and dedicated supply proficiencies. Having recently completed a total transformation also carried out by Oceania Marine, Ad-Vantage was once used as an offshore support vessel. Today she serves as the ultimate water sport and exploration station on the Pacific.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/159643/image/large-30ea362386afc2a8218cac9e6244d779.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/159643">

 

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/159644/image/large-8e32b3632fa0cfd9c584dbef03d0e656.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/159644">

 

With her own dedicated and professional crew, Vantage offers guests the ability to reach ocean depths they never would have imagined possible in an on board submarine named Moby. Other on-deck tenders include a 34’ sportsfisher, a 26’ fast RIB as well as a G21 Wakeboat that is ideal for all kinds of fun watersports. A Van Dutch 40 chase boat follows Vantage wherever she goes. A dedicated toy garage makes for easy stowing of dive gear and fishing equipment.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/159645/image/large-212b345a9b5c3333983564354a81e2fe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/159645">

 

 

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/159646/image/large-a5010a7a749d8bebc11112f2c76a3848.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/159646">

 

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/159647/image/large-11034ba171c2f90c96b057d49fd62eab.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/159647">

Available to operate separately from her mothership, and capable to cater to her own set of guests, the purpose built interior that was designed to carrying 60+ crew members was removed and three new guest cabins, a captain’s cabin as well as a mess area and office was installed on the main deck. Below, the crew area and galley were stripped and upgraded, fit for its new purpose as a superyacht support vessel.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/159648/image/large-7b7dd57418be103436397e3f76aab15d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/159648">

 

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/159649/image/large-15baade1639c69e46da24e57c041d7b4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/159649">

Both yachts are manned by experienced and friendly crew ready to take guests on an unforgettable ocean adventure. To meet the crews, or learn more about the boat, go <a href="http://yacht-vantage.com/" target="_blank">here</a>. <a href="#managed-by-application" style="line-height: 1.42857; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);" target="_blank" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2404">Vantage </a> &amp; <a href="#managed-by-application" style="line-height: 1.42857; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);" target="_blank" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5937">Ad-Vantage </a>are currently available for charter through Ocean Independence cruising Fiji, French Polynesia and other South Pacific areas.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/159650/image/large-d6d9fc9ee1ddaf6dcb6077eeeb63dffe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/159650">

 

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/159651/image/large-5f56cdb20db2aa1ff725290eb4acfb65.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/159651">

 

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	Photos by Rodolphe Holler &amp; Greg Lebacon
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Superyacht of the Week: The Vantage Fleet

Superyacht Private Expeditions has recently posted the following remarkable video of the 45.7 metre superyacht Vantage cruising with her support vessel, the 54 metre Ad Vantage. Vantage was designed by Nuvolari &amp; Lenard and constructed by Palmer Johnson in 2010, and is part of the yard’s 150’ Super Sport Yacht Series.

 

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The 53.25 metre Damen-built Ad Vantage was previously used as an offshore patrol vessel. She underwent an extensive transformation into a luxury support vessel which was completed at the end of last year in New Zealand based Oceania Marine.

 

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As part of her substantial reimagining, Ad Vantage’s purpose built interior for the carrying of 60+ crew members was removed and three new guest cabins, a captain’s cabin as well as a mess area and office was installed on the main deck. Below, the crew area and galley were stripped and upgraded whilst on the main deck, a new Bolidt synthetic deck was applied, a stern anchor fitted to the transom area and a submarine garage installed.

 

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/158595/image/large-1334eb1735e3574e96b5b19379a87d35.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/158595">

 

Ad Vantage’s mothership also underwent a refit at Oceania Marina in 2015, and was relaunched in May.

Video of Vantage and Ad Vantage cruising side by side

Superyacht Private Expeditions has recently posted the following remarkable video of the 45.7 metre superyacht Vantage cruising with her support vessel, the 54 metre Ad Vantage. Vantage was designed by Nuvolari &amp; Lenard and constructed by Palmer Johnson in 2010, and is part of the yard’s 150’ Super Sport Yacht Series.<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/154276231" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe>The 53.25 metre Damen-built Ad Vantage was previously used as an offshore patrol vessel. She underwent an extensive transformation into a luxury support vessel which was completed at the end of last year in New Zealand based Oceania Marine.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/158494/image/large-72f7fe87af9c67f16a42967482cf229e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/158494">As part of her substantial reimagining, Ad Vantage’s purpose built interior for the carrying of 60+ crew members was removed and three new guest cabins, a captain’s cabin as well as a mess area and office was installed on the main deck. Below, the crew area and galley were stripped and upgraded whilst on the main deck, a new Bolidt synthetic deck was applied, a stern anchor fitted to the transom area and a submarine garage installed.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/158495/image/large-3a87455406e8aacd5bb043c532e603f9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/158495">Ad Vantage’s mothership also underwent a refit at Oceania Marina in 2015, and was relaunched in May.By Gemma Fottles

Video of Vantage and Ad Vantage cruising side by side 

Following the successful conversion of the 54 metre offshore support vessel Advantage in New Zealand last year, comes another offer from Ocean Independence on the same platform. The crew transport vessel Transit has been serving offshore platforms in the eastern Mediterranean from her Cyprus base and is now ready to sail alongside a superyacht mothership carrying watersport toys, provisions and crew in support.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/158090/image/large-b2fb622d6151cad2fd767e8290ac65ba.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/153654">Advantage is a good example of the capabilities of these seaworthy and tested vessels. She sailed away from Whangerei-based Oceania Marine capable of carrying a submarine, 40’ and 34’ tenders and two 20’ inflatable RIBS. She is also capable of accommodating a helicopter once her deck has been cleared of the water craft.Transit is currently on offer through Ocean Independence at an asking price of EUR 8,500,000.

Another Damen Sea Axe platform ready for support yacht conversion

It seems like yesterday when the 54m Damen-built Sea Axe support vessel Ad Vantage arrived in the New Zealand port of Whangarei to start work on her transformation into a superyacht support vessel at Oceania Marine. Diverse Projects, the company that was in charge of the refit operations has now reported that the vessel has departed New Zealand and is en route to join her mothership, the 45.70 metre Palmer Johnson superyacht Vantage.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157553/image/large-1a1419bf3d66aa6d177c14227691c2c0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157553">Used as an offshore support vessel previously, Ad Vantage’s purpose built interior for the carrying of 60+ crew members was removed and three new guest cabins, a captain’s cabin as well as a mess area and office was installed on the main deck. Below, the crew area and galley were stripped and upgraded, fit for its new purpose as a superyacht support vessel.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157554/image/large-b5e16347a447219d5146ddbed761089f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157554"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157555/image/large-2e0c0680156534090ee944e2eda8d0fe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157555">Outside on main deck, a new Bolidt synthetic deck has been applied, a stern anchor fitted to the transom area and a submarine garage installed, which was constructed offsite and will greatly enhance the mothership’s exploration capabilities.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157556/image/large-573c1c9f4641cdf1d8eed92db6c726bc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157556">Earlier in the year, superyacht Vanatge also paid a visit to Oceania Marine where the 2010-built yacht received a refit. The following video shows her being re-launched at the site.<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6wlDAftohQE" width="560"></iframe>By Charl van Rooy, photos by Diverse Projects

Damen support yacht Ad Vantage underway to join mothership

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157324/image/large-1093cc0e82b937e7f4faff8d01d2d532.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157324">Superyachts Alucia and Umbra in San FransiscoIt is not often that the two strictly-functional and expedition-ready yachts Alucia and Umbra make a public appearance as seen here in San Francisco. Likely because these yachts, owned by the same owner, spend most of their time exploring the depths of the Pacific Ocean or anchored off some remote island.The 56 metre explorer vessel Alucia underwent a full 12-month refit last year in New Zealand where she had a new engine exhaust purification system installed and maintenance and upgrade of her submarine and dive control systems. These upgrades were necessary for the 40 year old vessel to retain her SOLAS standards and stay in survey to continue her mission as a no-nonsense world explorer.Her much younger and slightly smaller cruising companion, Umbra, started life as a fast support Sea Axe vessel built by Dutch shipyard Damen in 2010. She too was refitted by Diverse projects and released from the Oceania Marine shipyard in New Zealand in March this year with the addition of a removable helicopter pad. Shortly after she made news earlier in the year when she joined superyacht Dragonfly in Vanuatu to assist in relief efforts in aid of stricken communities on the island following a devastating cyclone that hit the region.By Charl van Rooy, photo by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/98732074@N00/" target="_blank">Dave R </a>

Explorer yachts Alucia and Umbra alongside in San Fransisco

Following a comprehensive refit which started in August this year, the 54m Damen-built Sea Axe support vessel Advantage has emerged from the shed at Oceania Marine in Whangerei. New Zealand company Diverse Projects oversaw the extensive refit which was completed in just under four months by Oceania Marine, and comprised of custom changes such as the installation of a submarine garage, newly configurated deck and the fitting of Quantum stabilisers. This is all finished by a prominent new grey and white paint job.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157287/image/large-b3462de2ae3e4aa151868658721019d7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157287">Used as an offshore support vessel previously, Advantage’s purpose built interior for the carrying of 60+ crew members was removed and three new guest cabins, a captain’s cabin as well as a mess area and office was installed on the main deck. Below, the crew area and galley were stripped and upgraded, fit for its new purpose as a superyacht support vessel.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157288/image/large-2c40ab3661a14adad5203dfa6729e9a7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157288">Outside on main deck, a new Bolidt synthetic deck has been applied, a stern anchor fitted to the transom area and a submarine garage installed, which was constructed offsite and will greatly enhance the mothership’s exploration capabilities.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157289/image/large-400af839047fee569bfb24d1c2ece000.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157289">“A phenomenal amount of work has been done in a short period of time” says Diverse Projects director Lars Bjorklund. “This is an absolute credit to the yard and all involved, given the wide ranging and very specific compliance requirements entailed in a refit to this scale.”Following the installation of her on-deck tender crane, testing of the stabilisers and fulfilling classification requirements, Advantage will depart from New Zealand to join her mothership in Tahiti.By Charl van Rooy

54m Damen Sea Axe Advantage re-launched

Port Whangerei Marine Centre in New Zealand is currently having a new 100 ton travelift assembled at their facility. The lift will soon be operational following inspection and approval from the manufacturer official. The yard reports that an order for a larger 560 ton travelift has already been placed, and following discussions at the recent Monaco Yacht Show, will be delivered before the start of the 2016 season.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156871/image/large-e3a3907f11af6802e0f5bb43f1e66054.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156871">Port Whangerei Marine Centre forms part of Oceana Marine’s companies, one of the various superaycht refit facilities in New Zealand serving global-cruising superyachts and those operating within the Pacific.<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aPQzFPZdKxE" width="560"></iframe>Oceana Marine is currently working on the <a href="#managed-by-application" target="_blank" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/44711">refit</a> of a 53m Damen-built fast support vessel named Advantage, which is said to be re-launched before the end of this year.By Charl van Rooy

Expansions at Port Whangerei Marine Centre

Oceania Marine, the New Zealand shipyard currently overseeing the conversion project of the Damen fast support yacht Advantage, reports that the vessel has been hauled out and is now ready for work to commence. The yard will have their hands full over the next few months, with a delivery date scheduled ahead of Christmas this year.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155718/image/large-b7b855f2786509340f8f493bee22349b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155718">Work that will be conducted as part of the vessels conversion include a complete repaint of the exterior, an extension to her stern by having a module fitted to her transom as well as the addition of a large deck crane. Her interior will also see major modifications, with structural changes to take place before the entire interior is to be outfitted to suit her new superyacht standard.“We were very pleased with the outcome on the last Damen project, Umbra, and obviously this has been an influential factor in the decision to bring Advantage to our shipyard. We are well set up to cater for the wide variety of requirements that a project of this nature entails and are looking forward to the challenge of the next few months,” said Oceanis Marine’s Managing Director.By Charl van Rooy

Update on Damen fast support yacht conversion project

Oceania Marine in New Zealand are currently underway with works to transform the 50m fast support vessel known before as EDT Nefeli, into a superyacht support vessel. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5937" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ad Vantage53.25m (174'8&quot;)">Advantage</a>, according to a local New Zealand news source, is receiving a multimillion-dollar refit that will include a new storage garage on deck and tender crane.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155629/image/large-b496a852ad2cd3dbc5e8da7c2a26d3fb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155629">The Damen-built support vessel <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5937" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ad Vantage53.25m (174'8&quot;)">Advantage</a> started out as a firefighting and fast crew support vessel servicing offshore platforms while being in the service of the Mahita Sea Shipping company. In addition to her new superyacht-standard interior and exterior refurbishing, the vessel will also be lengthened. The ship was reportedly bought two months ago by her owner, who had her shipped to New Zealand to have the refit conducted by Oceania Marine.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155630/image/large-439474cf9ed8a16671515945dc1f7b97.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155630">The Whangarei-based shipyard is no stranger to completing works on superyachts. Recent projects by the yard include the refit of 46m Palmer Johnson superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2404" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vantage45.7m (149'11&quot;)">Vantage</a>, the haul-out of Fitzroy Yachts’ very last delivered yacht, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4573" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Escapade37.5m (123'0&quot;)">Escapade</a>, as well as the incredible transformation of Damen-built sister ship <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3235" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Umbra51.3m (168'4&quot;)">Umbra</a>, who recently aided devastated communities after a hurricane destroyed the island of Vanuatu.<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6wlDAftohQE" width="560" class="fr-draggable"></iframe>The refit project on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5937" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ad Vantage53.25m (174'8&quot;)">Advantage</a> is reported to employ 100 people from the local community, with neighbouring company Ship Repair NZ contracted to complete the heavy fabrication tasks of the project.

Damen-built shadow vessel undergoing superyacht conversion

Published on May 20th by New Zealand shipyard Oceania Marine, the following video shot on a drone shows the re-launch of the 45.7 metre superyacht Vantage recently.<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6wlDAftohQE" width="560"></iframe>Built by the U.S. shipyard Palmer Johnson Yachts in 2010, she is constructed with aluminium and GRP and is Lloyd’s Registered. She is part of the Palmer Johnson 150’ Super Sport Yacht Series. On board she accommodates up to 12 guests as well as a crew of 8, and is powered by twin MTU 16V 4000 M90 diesel engines.By Gemma Fottles

Drone video of re-launching of 46 metre superyacht Vantage

Oceania Marine in New Zealand has announced that an order has been made for the first of two travelift machines as part of its development plan. Work has commenced on the new Port Whangarei Marine Centre (PWMC) at South Shipyard, Port Whangarei, New Zealand, which will incorporate the new travelift haulout service.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/152820/image/large-7d132641d15a9521f8b09ff0c7753f8c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/152820">The development is starting with the installation of a 100 tonne Cimolai mobile boat hauler (MBH 100) utilising the extensive sealed hardstand, refit sheds and amenities available at South Shipyard. The works will take approximately 6 months to complete.Managing Director, Martin Gleeson, says, “The initiative has been some years in the planning and it is exciting for our whole team to finally be starting on the real thing. This first stage not only targets a market that Oceania Marine currently does not cater for but in addition will ease pressure on the slipping schedule of the 800 tonne railway slipway at North Shipyard, located close by, for more large vessel haul outs”The 100 tonne travelift will have an inside clear width of 10.2 metres making it physically the largest machine in New Zealand. The PWMC at South Shipyard will be offering haulout, refit and repair services to a wide range of vessels both domestic and international.Marketing Manager Jim Loynes is tasked with promoting the marine centre. He comments, “Whangarei is the main maintenance stop in the South Pacific for the international cruising fraternity. The number of visiting yachts is increasing and so too is the number of sailing catamarans, consequently, we have optimised the travelift to service this market. We plan to finish construction and installation in time to open by at least October this year. Between now and then I will be busy marketing the marine centre and informing everyone of what we will have on offer.”In addition to the above, provision is also being made for the installation of a 450 tonne Cimolai mobile boat hauler, which is to follow the installation of the smaller travelift. Progress updates on the development of the Centre will be release as construction proceeds.By Gemma Fottles