Thailand

Ratanachai Shipyard Co., Ltd.

As the number of large superyachts cruising the Asia-Pacific continues to rise, so does the demand for world-class refit and maintenance services across the region. In particular, Thailand is emerging as a key hub for visiting vessels seeking reliable facilities and a high level of service.&nbsp;Between 2022 and 2024, an average of over 400 yachts exceeding 30-metres in length were recorded in the Asia-Pacific each year. This trend signals not only a growing interest in the region, but also highlights the importance of supporting infrastructure to sustain and encourage repeat visits.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357888/image/large-d2a2784b617f36a6281728c56955b704.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357888">To better understand how the region is responding to this shift, <a href="http://superyachttimes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht Times</a> spoke with Leang Narukutpichai, Managing Director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5235" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ratanachai Shipyard Co., Ltd. (Company)">Ratanachai Shipyard</a> and a fourth-generation member of the family-owned refit yard based in Phuket, Thailand. Leang reflects on the shipyard’s evolution, the growing appeal of Thailand as a refit destination and how <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5235" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ratanachai Shipyard Co., Ltd. (Company)">Ratanachai</a> is positioning itself within the region’s expanding superyacht ecosystem.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357884/image/large-483bdf9b1adddfbec3e553c023369877.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357884">Could you share some background on the founding of&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5235" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ratanachai Shipyard Co., Ltd. (Company)">Ratanachai Shipyard</a>&nbsp;and how the company has evolved over the years?<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5235" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ratanachai Shipyard Co., Ltd. (Company)">Ratanachai Shipyard</a> was established in 1979 to support the growing fleet of fishing vessels operating around Phuket. Over time, our client base diversified to include commercial vessels, Royal Thai Navy ships and privately owned yachts - both sailing and motor.As Phuket evolved into an increasingly international destination over the past few decades, the shipyard evolved in parallel. In 2021, we made a strategic decision to focus more deliberately on servicing superyachts. Since then, we’ve steadily expanded our capabilities and the response from captains, crew and management companies has been overwhelmingly positive.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357889/image/large-4375885e0f15167fb5aa7fa0cd320723.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357889">Could you describe the facilities and capabilities <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5235" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ratanachai Shipyard Co., Ltd. (Company)">Ratanachai Shipyard</a> offers for yacht refit projects?At <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5235" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ratanachai Shipyard Co., Ltd. (Company)">Ratanachai Shipyard</a>, we’re equipped to handle refit projects for vessels up to 45-metres in length, with a beam of 10.5-metres and a displacement of up to 280 tonnes. Our hardstand areas can accommodate up to 25 vessels simultaneously. We use slipways and custom cradle systems for haul-outs, allowing us to work with a wide range of hull shapes and sizes.In terms of infrastructure, we’ve made targeted investments to ensure safety and operational continuity. A backup generator keeps the yard functioning during any power outages, while an upgraded firefighting system - featuring pressurised piping throughout the facility - ensures we are prepared to respond promptly in case of emergency.Looking ahead, we are actively expanding our capabilities. A new in-water jetty service area is under development, which will enable us to carry out sea trials and onboard systems checks without requiring a haul-out.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357890/image/large-754d6e977fcc5e81c6f9971b8e39e612.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357890">Thailand is increasingly recognised as a leading destination for yacht refits in the Asia-Pacific region. What factors have contributed to this reputation and what more could be done to enhance the country's appeal?Thailand, especially Phuket, has really carved out a name for itself in the refit space over the past couple of years. This reputation stems from a strong network of marine professionals, skilled tradespeople and shipyards like ours that are equipped to support complex projects. It’s a combination of factors: high-quality workmanship, cost-effectiveness, and a growing capacity for technical work.The Thai government has also recognised the potential of this sector and is actively supporting its development. There is a clear initiative to position Phuket as a major hub for marine tourism and those efforts are helping to elevate its standing on the global yachting map.Lifestyle plays a significant role as well. Both owners and crew enjoy spending time in Phuket, which is one of Asia’s most popular tourism destinations. The wide range of activities available makes longer refit periods feel less like downtime and more like an opportunity, contributing to a positive experience that often leads to repeat visits.That said, the region is still developing. There’s room for improvement - particularly in streamlining infrastructure, customs procedures, logistics and tax frameworks. But the momentum is real. Interest from international players is growing, and the regional ecosystem is maturing year by year.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357886/image/large-e74098759685c8ef61275867484ad7e6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357886">Skilled labour is essential to the success of any yacht refit project. What steps does&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5235" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ratanachai Shipyard Co., Ltd. (Company)">Ratanachai Shipyard</a>&nbsp;take to train and retain a highly skilled workforce?At present, we do not have a formal training programme in place, but we have been working closely with local technical colleges and regularly host interns as part of their vocational education. This experience has highlighted the potential for developing a more structured apprenticeship scheme in the future.Thailand already benefits from a deep-rooted tradition of craftsmanship and we are actively exploring ways to formalise training that both preserves this heritage and equips younger technicians with the skills required to meet the expectations of the superyacht sector.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357891/image/large-23f57251c7502a0cfb67edd876acd563.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357891">In what ways does your shipyard differentiate itself from competitors in the region?&nbsp;One of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5235" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ratanachai Shipyard Co., Ltd. (Company)">Ratanachai Shipyard</a>’s core strengths is our flexibility. We give clients the freedom to bring in their own contractors, which is often a significant advantage for captains and owners who prefer to work with trusted specialists.What also sets us apart is the quality of our in-house teams and our strong relationships with leading local contractors. Our carpentry department, in particular, is a point of pride, and interior refits are among our key areas of expertise. We maintain close partnerships with many of Phuket’s top marine professionals, who appreciate working in a clean, well-organised and supportive environment. That collaborative atmosphere enables all parties to perform at their best, ultimately delivering a smooth and successful refit for the client.&nbsp;Another notable advantage is our location. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5235" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ratanachai Shipyard Co., Ltd. (Company)">Ratanachai Shipyard</a> is situated just 10 minutes from Phuket Town, making it a very conveniently located yard on the island. Captains and crew have easy access to restaurants, marine suppliers and international medical services- all within close reach. This proximity enhances both efficiency and quality of life during a refit period.More broadly, we see strength in Phuket’s growing marine ecosystem. Collaboration between shipyards, contractors, and suppliers contributes to an increasingly robust infrastructure. We’re committed to supporting that development, because when the industry flourishes, everyone benefits - including the client.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357887/image/large-a95be9d8fa9e47e15c83ae18e8331876.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357887">Last year saw a significant number of yachts coming to your yard for refits. Do you anticipate this trend will continue in 2025?&nbsp;We’re pleased to report that the demand for superyacht refits in Phuket remains strong. Last year, we welcomed a significant number of yachts to the yard, and the feedback from captains and management companies has been extremely positive.Looking ahead to 2025, we’re confident this momentum will continue. While the majority of our clients currently come from within Southeast Asia, we believe that by continuing to raise our service standards and maintaining a strong commitment to quality, we can begin attracting yachts from further afield - regions such as Hong Kong, Australia, and even Europe.&nbsp;Our long-term ambition is to position <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5235" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ratanachai Shipyard Co., Ltd. (Company)">Ratanachai</a>, and Phuket more broadly, as a trusted destination for high-quality, well-managed refits on a global scale.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357907/image/large-e2fb312393403de0bc4bd01b9f7ee8c1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357907">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit 2025The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/events/asia-pacific-superyacht-summit" target="_blank">APSS</a> will take place between 7 and 8 May 2025 at the Renaissance Harbour Hotel in Hong Kong. It aims to promote the region as a yachting destination, addressing current challenges and highlighting unique opportunities. Tickets are available <a href="https://www.eventbrite.nl/e/asia-pacific-superyacht-summit-2025-tickets-1139739805439" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">here</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284217/image/large-b66ead0d6d92b5d102efb5c4693cd4ee.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284217">Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/62442" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit 2025 programme (2025-02-06 16:00:00 +0100)">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit 2025 programme</a>Set against the dynamic backdrop of Hong Kong, one of Asia’s most influential hubs for finance, commerce and luxury, the summit will offer two days of essential discussions and strategic insights.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314028/image/large-f730cff9d54ca869b3d97ff122d5b924.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314028">With the Asian superyacht market continuing to expand, this event is a must-attend for those seeking to understand the evolving market landscape and capitalise on new opportunities.

How Ratanachai Is shaping Phuket’s superyacht refit future

SYT spoke with Leang Narukutpichai, of Ratanachai Shipyard on the shipyard’s evolution, the growing appeal of Thailand as a refit destination.