The Art of Renewal: Refitting a Superyacht with Feadship and Amels
In the exclusive world of superyachts, the choice isn’t always between building a new vessel or buying an existing one. For many owners, the most compelling option is a refit. A refit project breathes new life into a classic yacht, marrying its timeless design and solid construction with cutting-edge technology and modern luxury. This approach can save an owner anywhere from 30% to 50% of the cost of a new build, while allowing them to preserve the yacht’s unique heritage. Two of the most prestigious names in the industry, Feadship and Amels, both based in the Netherlands, have become global leaders in this specialized field. While both deliver exceptional quality, their philosophies and cost structures for refits are distinctly different. This article will explore the costs involved and compare the unique approaches of these two legendary yards.
What Makes Up the Cost of a Refit?
The total cost of a superyacht refit is a complex calculation that depends on the age and condition of the yacht, the scope of the project, and the owner’s vision. The key cost drivers can be broken down into mandatory upgrades and optional enhancements.
Core Work (Mandatory)
- Hull and Engines:
- Sandblasting and Anti-Corrosion Treatment: An essential first step for any major refit. This process ensures the structural integrity of the hull and can cost from $500,000 to $1.5 million, depending on the yacht’s size and condition.
- Engine Replacement: Upgrading to modern, more efficient engines (e.g., from MTU or Caterpillar) is a major expense but provides significant long-term savings in fuel and maintenance. This can range from $2 million to $6 million.
- Interiors:
- Complete Layout Redesign: A full interior overhaul to modernize the layout and amenities. This is typically priced per square meter, ranging from $3,000 to $8,000 per m². For a 50m yacht, this can amount to $1.5 million to $4 million.
- Premium Materials: The choice of high-end materials like marble, exotic woods, and bespoke leather can increase interior costs by 50% to 100%.
Optional Systems (Premium Upgrades)
- Navigation and Communication: Upgrading the yacht’s bridge with the latest technology, including new radars, ECDIS systems, and a high-speed satellite communications system like Starlink, can add $1 million to $3 million to the budget.
- Environmental Upgrades:
- SCR Filters: Retrofitting a yacht to meet modern emissions standards, such as IMO Tier III, requires the installation of Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) filters. This can cost $1.2 million to $2 million.
- Ballast Water Treatment Systems: Necessary to comply with international regulations, these systems can cost between $300,000 and $800,000.
Overall Price Range: A significant refit for a 50–70m yacht will typically fall within the $10 million to $30 million range. For larger yachts (70m+), the costs can escalate to $30 million to $100 million. A notable example is the refit of Feadship’s “Savanah,” which reportedly cost around $75 million.
Comparing Feadship vs. Amels Refits
While both are renowned Dutch shipyards, they have developed distinct approaches to the refit process. The choice between them often depends on the owner’s priorities for customization, timeline, and budget.
| Criterion | Feadship (Netherlands) | Amels (Netherlands) |
|---|---|---|
| Timeline | 12–36 months | 8–24 months (modular solutions) |
| Price (for 50m) | $15–$40M | $10–$30M |
| Key Feature | Bespoke, custom-tailored design | Pre-engineered “Limited Editions” packages |
| Specialty | Restoration of classic yachts with unparalleled craftsmanship | Rapid modernization of systems and interiors |
Feadship is the choice for an owner who wants a truly unique, one-of-a-kind refit, often focusing on preserving the yacht’s history while integrating the highest level of modern luxury. Their projects are typically more time-consuming and expensive but deliver a result that is completely custom. Amels, on the other hand, excels at more predictable and efficient refits, often utilizing modular solutions from their “Limited Editions” series. This approach reduces both the timeline and the cost, making it ideal for owners who want a high-quality upgrade without a multi-year wait.
Top 3 Refit Projects of 2024
The past year has seen several impressive refit projects, showcasing the capabilities of these leading yards:
- Feadship “Moonrise” (65m, 1995 → 2024):
- Refit Cost: An estimated $45 million.
- Key Changes: This project was a complete overhaul, including the installation of a new hybrid propulsion system and the addition of a stunning panoramic glass hull.
- Amels “Here Comes the Sun” (83m, 2017 → 2024):
- Cost: Around $30 million.
- Key Changes: The primary focus was on modernization and enhancing guest experience, including expanding the beach club and replacing the entire HVAC system for improved efficiency.
- Feadship “Virginian” (50m, 1990 → 2023):
- Budget: $22 million.
- Details: This refit was a masterclass in classic yacht restoration, with the complete replacement of interiors to an authentic Art Deco style, all while upgrading all of the vessel’s technical systems.
How to Reduce Refit Costs
For owners seeking to optimize their budget, there are several strategic choices to make:
- Alternative Shipyards: While Feadship and Amels are premier choices, opting for a reputable yard in Turkey or Spain can lead to savings of 20–40% on labor and overhead.
- Modular vs. Custom: Choosing Amels’ pre-engineered solutions over a fully bespoke design from Feadship can drastically reduce both cost and timeline.
- Phased Approach: Instead of a single, massive refit, owners can choose to complete the work in phases—for example, upgrading engines and mechanicals first, followed by interior and exterior work in subsequent years.
Conclusion: A Matter of Vision and Budget
The decision to refit a superyacht is an investment in both its future and its past. Feadship is the ideal choice for an owner with an unlimited budget who values exclusivity and desires to create a truly one-of-a-kind masterpiece. Amels, on the other hand, offers a more predictable, cost-effective path to modernization, perfect for owners who want a high-quality upgrade on a more structured timeline. The current trend for 2024 is a strong focus on refits that include hybrid propulsion, advanced AI systems, and a strong emphasis on sustainability. Whatever the choice, a refit is a journey that ensures a classic yacht can sail proudly into the next era of luxury and technology.