Solent Refit re-launched the appropriately named 38 metre classic motor yacht Moon Maiden II during the solar eclipse visible across Northern Europe on 20 March 2015.
Cloud cover over much of southern England obscured the eclipse, which saw the sun temporarily darkened by the moon, and Caroline Blackwell of Solent Refit comments, “The launch was a much greater success and better photo opportunity than the solar eclipse was from Southampton!”
Moon Maiden II, formerly known as Yildiz 10, was built in 1975 and operated as a successful charter yacht, before becoming been best known for her appearance in the James Bond film The Living Daylights in 1987. Despite her high-profile appearance, she fell into disrepair and was found by her current owner in a run-down condition in the Mediterranean.
The owner embarked on a major rennovation and refit of the classic motor yacht, employing Solent Refit the UK to carry out the work. The yard has completed a successful renovation of the engine room, as well as giving the former "Bond girl" new decking and a fresh paint job on the hull and superstructure. The yacht is now ready to leave Southampton to go back to the Mediterranean to begin her 2015 season.
Solent Refit is currently undertaking work on the classic 50 metre motor yacht RS Eden, which was launched in the 1930s.