The best recently completed superyacht refits

The 50 metre classic Defoe superyacht Alicia has finally finished her mammoth three-year renovation at the Southampton refit yard SMS. Alicia was treated to a completely new aluminium superstructure while a new hull has been rebuilt from the steel of her previous hull. A number of other major structural works also took place. Alicia is now expected to show off her new look at the 20th Les Voiles de Saint Tropez, joining 300 of the world’s most beautiful modern and classic yachts at the event in September.

Espadarte emerged from her major refit at the Lusben shipyard in Italy after having her deck restored, full paint job and new interior. The refit of the 49.8 metre classic superyacht, which was overseen by Ocean Technical, also included the fitting of excessive steel replacements and a completely rebuilt mast.

The 72 metre Feadship superyacht Utopia is already on her way to the Mediterranean after completing her third refit at her home yard. The 10 week refit saw the yacht’s cabin walls, mast and foredeck repainted and underwater ship blasted. A new AF system was applied, and a number of technical enhancements and refurbishments were made in relation to Lloyd’s 15-year-survey. A number of technical systems were also upgraded in the engine room to enable Utopia to spend longer periods cruising.

The 52 metre Benetti yacht My Falcon has emerged from its major refit at Turkish yard Bilgin as a fully-fledged “party yacht”. Key work included the installation of lighting, speakers, lasers, steam units and a DJ cabin to enable the transformation of the sun deck into a private night club. Meanwhile the Kuwaiti owner also opted to upgrade the seating areas with glowing fabric to “enliven the atmosphere during night” and replaced the old Jacuzzi with one surrounded with glass walls.

Not so much a refit as an upgrade. Elon Musk’s rocket recovery Mr Steven’s was kitted out with extended catching arms and an upgraded net measuring 3,700 square metres. The 62 metre vessel was pictured during sea trials in preparation for SpaceX’s July satellite launch but due to “inclement weather”, Mr Steven was still unable to snare a falling rocket fairing in her massive net.