Michael Bradford in his recent presentation to the Superyacht Design Symposium in New York City stated that it’s critical, “To involve one’s Captain and key members of crew, both in engineering and operations, in the design and build right from the start“.
With any project we consider that it begins with an expert team having clearly defined roles focused on delivering the dream and an exceptional experience for the Owner. During the many projects that the team at Urban Voyage has worked on, we have had the pleasure of working with the “best in the business” and many exceptional Captains and Owner’s Representatives.
It has been these opportunities that have provided valuable insights into the challenges facing Build Managers during the design and construction phases of Superyachts. As systems, technology, procedures and the knowledge required to build Megayachts becomes more complicated, the management systems in place and people on the team will ensure a successful result (or not). This would be a daunting task for most people and one that relies on open communication and a positive relationship with the Shipyard.
Clearly defined roles and questions we encourage our partners to consider (if they don’t already):
The Owner
- How do they want their project to evolve?
- What role do they wish to take during the design and build?
- Are they hands-on or prefer to delegate authority?
- Can I lower the cost of operation?
- Can we increase the Vessel life-cycle and resale value?
- How do I ensure my intent in communicated and implemented?
- How can the experience be fun and enjoyable?
The Captain and/or Owner’s Representative
- How do I ensure the yacht is built to how the Owner wants it to look and function?
- How do I provide the Owner with Peace of Mind through out the design and build phases?
- How do I ensure the systems and equipment are installed in the right positions?
- How “user-friendly” will the vessel be to operate and service by the crew?
- How will the build be Project Managed?
- Are there existing solutions to help with the management of the above?
The Yard/Superyacht Builder
- How do we ensure the boat is built on-time and on-budget to the agreed specification?
- How can we improve profit margins?
- How do we reduce design and engineering change orders?
- Can we reduce the time taken to release design to manufacturing information?
- Can we reduce time from design to delivery?
- How do we maximize resources and efficiency?
Superyacht Bristolian
At Urban Voyage we understand that the process of designing and building yachts can be incredibly challenging and rewarding. We understand that it takes significant resource and time to produce a design and that this design information is more of an asset that just a manufacturing deliverable.
So how do you ensure a successful Superyacht Build Project? Talk with the Urban Voyage team to see how we are bringing projects around the world to life faster and more efficiently!
