Undertaking major engineering works aboard a 38 metre classic superyacht demands a level of planning and precision that few refit projects require. When the yacht is a traditional staysail schooner such as Gloria, the challenge becomes even greater. The integrity of the vessel, her rig and her handcrafted joinery must all be protected while complex mechanical systems are removed or replaced.
The recent superyacht refit of Gloria focused on a fundamental element of the yacht’s operation: onboard power generation. The project involved the complete removal of the yacht’s existing generators and the installation of new modern units capable of supporting the demands of contemporary superyacht systems.
For a classic sailing superyacht, this type of generator replacement is a significant engineering undertaking. Access to machinery spaces is often restricted and large equipment cannot simply be lifted out without careful structural consideration. In Gloria’s case, the work required partial removal of interior structures and even the temporary removal of the yacht’s mizzen mast to allow the generators to be extracted safely.
engineering a complex superyacht refit
Unlike modern production yachts, where equipment removal is often designed into the layout from the outset, classic sailing yachts such as Gloria were constructed around the machinery installed during their build. Over time this creates significant challenges when large mechanical components require replacement. Removing the generators therefore require a detailed engineering plan that considered lifting paths, structural clearances and the protection of surrounding joinery.
The refit began with a full technical assessment of the machinery space and the surrounding areas in order to determine how the generators could be removed without compromising the yacht’s structure or interior finish,
creating machinery access
To allow the removal of the generators, sections of the yacht’s interior had to be carefully dismantled. This work was carried out with great care, as the joinery aboard a classic superyacht is often an integral part of the vessel’s construction.
Interior panels and surrounding structures were temporarily removed to establish a clear route between the engine room and the deck. This process required both engineering expertise and an understanding of the yacht’s original construction in order to avoid unnecessary disruption to the vessel. Once the access route had been created, the engineering team were able to prepare for the extraction of the generators.
removing the existing generators
With the interior opened up and lifting routes established, the yacht’s original generators were disconnected and prepared for removal. The confined machinery spaces typical of classic sailing superyacht mean that equipment removal must be carried out with absolute precision. Specialist lifting equipment and experienced technicians were used to guide the generators safely out of the yacht.
This phase of the refit also allowed engineers to inspect the surrounding engineering spaces and prepare the area for the installation of the new systems.
temporary removal of the mizzen mast
One of the defining aspects of this project was the temporary removal of Gloria’s mizzen mast. On a traditional schooner, the masts and rigging can restrict the vertical clearance required to lift large machinery from below decks. In order to create the necessary lifting path, the mizzen mast was unstepped and safely removed by our specialist riggers.
This operation ensured that the generators could be lifted clear of the yacht without risk to the rig or surrounding structures. Once the removal process had been compelted, the mast was carefully re-stepped and the rig restored to its original configuration.
Installation of the new generators
With the original machinery removed and the space prepared, the focus turned to the installation of the new generator systems.
Modern generator technology offers significant advantages over older units, including improved efficiency, lower noise levels and greater reliability. For a classic superyacht such as Gloria, dependable power generation is essential for supporting navigation equipment, communications systems, lighting and onboard services. The new generators were installed, aligned and integrated into the yacht’s electrical infrastructure, ensuring reliable operation while maintaining the existing engineering layout.
a classic superyacht refit completed
Once the new systems had been commissioned, the interior sections removed during the project were carefully reinstated and the yacht’s mizzen mast was stepped back into position. The result is a superyacht refit that combines modern engineering with the preservation of a classic sailing yacht. Gloria retains the elegance and presence of a traditional staysail schooner while benefitting from the reliability and efficiency of new generator systems.
For a 38 metre classic superyacht, the successful completion of such works ensures that the vessel is fully prepared for continued operation while maintaining the heritage that defines her character.
The refit of Gloria highlights the level of technical precision required when carrying out complex engineering works aboard a classic sailing superyacht. From the controlled removal of the existing generators to the temporary unstepping of the mizzen mast and the installation of new modern systems, every stage of the project required careful planning and execution. The works were undertaken by Vortec Marine, whose experienced superyacht refit team delivered the project with the professionalism and engineering expertise demanded by a superyacht of this calibre.