The right painting services for the right superyacht

Written by Michael Henson  |  With thanks to M.u.H Von der Linden GmbH, Chi Yacht Refinishing & Yacht Wrapping

When a superyacht looks stunning it is often a breath taking experience, especially when seeing it for the   first time. This should be the standard when looking to impress owners or guests. However to achieve this standard, the entire yacht needs to be flawless, especially the paint!

To ensure every part of the superyacht looks exceptional and retains that wow factor, choosing the rightpainting services from the outset is one of the most essential decisions to make.

The secret of an excellent painting service lies in the client knowing exactly what the desired result of the project is and what needs to be done to achieve that result.

Tips on choosing the best paint company for your yacht

Kai Arendholz, from M.u.H. von der Linden GmbH explained:

“Key decisions need to be made early on, such as choosing the right company for the scale of the project. There are lots of skilled people for small repair jobs, but there are very few who do total refits on 40m yachts for example.”

These decisions will reverberate throughout the length of the project and M.u.H. von der Linden GmbH has passed on some key pointers, which are well worth considering;

• Ask the local distributor for advice - They will know a range of companies that specialise in painting services because they deliver the materials to them.

• Look for a company that specialises in certain areas not a ‘Jack of all trades’ - For example some companies may be experts at painting and varnishing and another company may be painting consulting experts.

• Compare quotations - For bigger projects, ask more than one company for a quote. Normally the prices of experienced companies are similar, but if one is very low in price, double checking the company before getting into business would be a good idea.

• Location - Where is the company based and what type of facilities do they have? If looking for a high class spray job, someone with a specialised shed, which is big enough for a superyacht would be essential.

• Additional Maintenance - In most cases other maintenance work needs to be completed along with the paint job, so check if a qualified shipyard is close by too.

Further services should be expected when selecting a company to take on a large project as Thomas Chadinha from Chi Yacht Refinishing gives an example of an extra service;

 “Prior to painting, it is advisable to test the paint by spraying a small test board, highlighting any defects early in the project.” 

This additional service will prevent any problems arising in the future and will ensure a durable, high quality finish.

Alternative to Yacht Painting

Yacht wrapping is a dynamic alternative to painting. It is the application of decorative or protective self-adhesive film to professional and private boating. Yacht wrapping can be used to renovate, customize and protect any marine hull (motor yacht, sail yacht, tender boat, jet-ski), with the use of high performance polymer self-adhesive film specially designed for wraps.

"It is very important that a fully qualified team is trained in new technologies required for applying this product and has several years of experience."Yacht Wrapping 

If painting your yacht is a costly investment. Yacht wrapping offers you a cheaper alternative to paint.

Know exactly what is wanted from the start

To ensure every part of the superyacht looks exceptional and retains that wow factor, choosing the right painting services from the outset is one of the most essential decisions to make.

The secret of an excellent painting service lies in the client knowing exactly what the desired result of the project is and what needs to be done to achieve that result.

Whichever method is used on a superyacht communication should be a key priority when making the decisions; using a company that provides ongoing updates throughout the project provides benefits for both parties. For the superyacht, this helps to reduce disruption as any problems, issues or potential stumbling blocks can be corrected at an early stage. For the contractor, communication with the client aids efficiency and planning, ensuring the project is completed at the earliest possible time – ideal for both parties.