From vast and elaborate megayachts to timeless, handmade dayboats, there is a vessel type for everyone. Decided on what you want? Well, it's now time to select whether you want a production, semi-custom, or full-custom yacht.
Each of the three distinct categories offers its own benefits, considerations, and level of personalization, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. In this insightful guide, we'll delve into the differences that set these build types apart, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of each and what to expect.
The yacht industry is one of the few left where craftsmanship still plays a key role. Despite modernization within a multitude of manufacturing processes, many vessels are still meticulously constructed by skilled artisans, ensuring every detail exudes excellence. From using the finest materials to fitting the most intricate design elements, production and custom yachts are all manufactured to extremely high standards.
Production Yachts
In the realm of yachting, production-made yachts stand as a testament to efficiency and accessibility without compromising on luxury. These vessels, often built in series, offer enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of maritime elegance that combines quality and affordability.
The role of production yacht building in shaping today's industry cannot be emphasized enough. It has not only revolutionized the industry but has also paved the way for a distinct retail sector. Dealers now have the ability to strategically plan sales, guaranteeing access to a specified number of yachts annually, while prospective buyers can anticipate a swift delivery process.
These yachts offer a remarkable balance between customization and simplicity. While buyers still have the freedom to choose optional finishes and equipment, the process is thoughtfully streamlined and comprehensible, rendering yacht acquisition an enjoyable and straightforward endeavor.
Semi-Custom Yachts
Take a production yacht and infuse it with a world of possibilities. Semi-custom yachts harness established hull and superstructure designs, presenting buyers with a plethora of interior and deck layout variations. This realm of generous yet physically constrained customization ensures a swift construction process, with the hull, superstructure, and upperworks largely predefined. The extent of personalization, especially if it involves substantial layout alterations, becomes the key determinant of the build timeline.
Semi-custom yachts carve a niche between the production and fully custom segments, typically spanning the 20m-40m (60ft-140ft) range. However, they can venture into larger yacht territory, thanks to platform builds that offer exterior designs with nearly bespoke levels of fit-out.
While smaller sub-20m (-60ft) yachts may offer semi-custom options, the rule of thumb remains: the larger the yacht, the more choices you can explore, making for an enriching and personalized experience.
Pros
- Good balance between delivery time and owner choice
- Interior and exterior style choices
- Multiple but easily navigated options
- Proven design platform
Cons
- Delivery times can be longer compared to production yachts
- There are still constraints in terms of customization
- Resale value can be affected if the yacht is too personalized
- Limited external design choice
What Can I Change?
Depending on the builder, you, the buyer, will enjoy a vast array of interior options, from curated interior design packages to physical layout changes that might see cabin numbers change, move a master suite from the main to the upper deck or switch a dining area for a gym.
Such is the level of cosmetic and layout change available for a semi-custom yacht it might be easier to confirm what you can’t do.
- Cabin layouts and configurations
- Flexible salon and living space configuration
- Multiple interior finishes
- Multiple deck layouts and furniture
What Can't I Change?
✖ Primary exterior or structural design
✖ Hull design or length
✖ Bulkhead positions
For most buyers, a semi-custom build offers a superb level of choice and personalization, without the complexity and expense of a large new-build project team and external designers.
If you do, however, wish to create your own truly unique and completely bespoke vessel, the custom yacht world awaits.
Custom Yachts
If you're after an entirely bespoke build, then a full-custom yacht is your only option. Offering extreme levels of personalization, custom yachts tend to start at approximately 50m (164ft), but can be significantly more.
The lucky buyer/owner will work with their own build team to decide on everything from the shape of the exterior windows to the finish of the taps in the master en suite.
A full-custom vessel requires a building material that can follow a unique design. GRP requires tooling and a mold, while steel allows for section-by-section construction, with lighter aluminum sometimes used for the upper works.
Commissioning a shipyard to build your own unique vessel requires a lot of time, consideration, and most importantly, money. A team must be assembled to design the yacht and to ensure its function is as good as its form.
Depending on how involved the owner wants to be, or how complex the project is, a fully bespoke team can be put together. Alternatively, the builder can take on much of the responsibility. Whatever the outcome or preference, as the client and owner you will be involved every step of the way, from dream to reality.
Pros
- Complete design and style choice
- The joy of personal investment
- A one of one vessel
Cons
- Delivery time
- The strain of personal investment
- Extremely expensive
Often, outside parties are used to support the owner. An existing hull design might be used, negating the need for a naval architect for example, but an interior designer, however, will be required to create the owner’s vision. Furthermore, an owner’s representative can also be employed to oversee and protect their interests, in addition to a build Captain.
Custom Yacht Build Team
Shipyard project manager: responsible for the build schedule, budgets, and program
Owner's representative: the go-between in the team/owner relationship
Design team: naval architect, exterior and interior designers
Build Captain: follows the build through to delivery and beyond
Copy, Redesign, or Create?
A custom build can be many things. It could be a near copy of an existing vessel, a classic design, or a never-attempted shape. More often than not, though, custom yachts will start with a designer’s previous work, before it is reimagined in line with the client's needs and desires.
Most full-custom builds will be based on a previous design or will share similarities. The benefit of this is that both money and time can be saved with a design headstart, using proven layouts and proportions. Furthermore, even significantly different-looking yachts from the same builder can share similar, or even identical underwater designs.
From design to execution, full-custom yachts epitomize the dreams of their owners, turning vision into floating reality. These vessels are not just yachts; they are expressions of individuality and style.
If you're seeking the ultimate in exclusivity and craftsmanship, full-custom yachts are your passport to a maritime world without boundaries. Embrace the allure of full customization, and embark on a journey like no other – one defined entirely by your own imagination.
