Experts in New Build and Refit Project Management

How Hill Robinson’s experienced project managers support captains and crew and safeguard owners’ interests.

Building a new yacht or transforming an existing one is a significant undertaking – and one that demands precision, experience and complete peace of mind. At Hill Robinson, we offer expert project management for both new builds and refits, ensuring that every project, no matter how ambitious, is delivered on time, on budget and exactly to your vision.

New build: A complex journey made simple

Constructing a yacht is an exhilarating and highly personal process, but also one that is full of contractual, technical and logistical challenges. Our experienced new build project managers guide you every step of the way, from concept to completion, protecting your interests and ensuring every decision serves your long-term vision.

• Contracts built to protect you: Our project managers collaborate with your legal advisors to navigate and negotiate shipbuilding contracts and assist in incorporating commercial protections against commonly overlooked contractual snares.
• Full representation throughout the build: Acting as the owner’s representative, our project managers will ensure your contractual obligations are carried out, including approving drawings, managing stage payments, attending inspections and sea trials and coordinating owner’s supply items.
• Quality control: Acceptance of the yacht is a process, not a deadline. Our project managers begin thorough evaluations long before the final delivery date to ensure expectations are met – not just minimum class requirements.
• Ongoing support after handover: Even after delivery, our project managers stay involved to process any warranty claims and support you through your yacht’s first year of operations.

Refit: Global coverage, personalised support

Refits can be just as complex – and rewarding – as a new build. Whether it’s a technical upgrade, renewal survey or a full-scale interior transformation, our refit project managers take charge of planning, oversight and execution – freeing captains to focus on operations and crew, and ensuring owners receive full value from every hour spent in the yard.

• Pre-planning that pays off: To ensure the yacht’s downtime is optimised, our project managers can assist with all necessary preparations. This includes compiling a shipyard comparison report with realistic quotations based on the full scope of works required.
• Expertise that earns trust: We proactively drive the project with a solutions-focused mindset, technical confidence and transparent communication. Shipyards value our ability to make quick, informed decisions thanks to our deep understanding of owner expectations.
• Return on investment: Our project managers don’t just keep projects moving; they also save money. From negotiating supplier rates to cost-effective solutions, we routinely deliver savings equal to 100–200% of the project management cost.
• A specialist team behind every project: Every project manager is supported by the wider Hill Robinson team. This includes a legal team for the preparation of contracts and disagreement resolution and a procurement department for sourcing and negotiating the best prices and shortest delivery times.

Get in touch with our team of experts to find out how we can help with your next new build or refit project at enquire@hillrobinson.com.

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