The Italy-based shipyard Lusben has released new images of the 88-metre yacht Maltese Falcon, following her extensive refit. The iconic sailing yacht underwent a major and innovative refit at Lusben performed at the Livorno yard and was relaunched in April 2023.
Commissioned by Tom Perkins and built in 2006 by Perini Navi, Maltese Falcon has retained her revolutionary status as one of the largest sailing yachts in the world. She features naval architecture by Dykstra Naval Architects and interior design by Ken Freivokh, with her refit taking more than six months to be completed. 
The technical team of experts at Lusben were able to make the owner’s needs a reality by providing support for a series of aesthetic and functional improvements. One of the largest and most challenging jobs the team faced was repainting her entire hull in the distinctive ‘Perini Blue.’
Read: 88m Perini Navi superyacht Maltese Falcon re-launched following refit
The work took place on the Livorno yard’s floating dock, with a special system designed and built to accommodate the yacht’s six-metre draught. The work centred around sustainability which led to the replacement of her generators with more efficient models that have a lower fuel consumption.
“It was a challenging project for all of us, not least because the sheer size of this sailing yacht required us to design and build a special system to accommodate the vessel in dry dock,” commented Gianni Paladino, Lusben Commercial Director. “We worked in synergy with the various teams involved in the refit work and with the customer, satisfying their wishes and at the same time suggesting improvements with a view to increasing efficiency and energy savings.”
The main engine mufflers of Maltese Falcon were also changed to provide significant benefits to the environment and considerable noise reductions. Maltese Falcon’s propellers were thoroughly checked, and the shafts, blades and bearings were disassembled and serviced to ensure efficiency in the years to come and to optimise fuel consumption.
The distinctive sailing rig of Maltese Falcon underwent extensive work during the refit and required specialist attention for cleaning. Produced by UK-based Insensys, the system is based on three rotating carbon fibre masts capable of deploying up to 2,396 square-metres of sail. This surface area translates into a top speed of 25 knots with a displacement of 1,240 tonnes. 
The teak deck of Maltese Falcon was also replaced and the interiors refurbished to offer guests an even more welcoming, elegant and comfortable night area, plus a fully appointed galley. The work commissioned also included routine maintenance.
“It was a challenging job and an effort that involved everyone because of the high expectations around the project and the complexity of its planning and execution, but the result is more than satisfactory thanks to the support of the yard and Lusben’s team. The Maltese Falcon can now return to the sea in all her splendour, regaling her guests with new and unforgettable experiences,” concluded Pierfrancesco Cafaro, captain of Maltese Falcon.