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Top 10 luxury yacht builders 2023

The design and build of a luxury yacht is a truly personal experience. Whether customising a design to be built, or striving to create a completely new concept altogether, superyacht owners will seek to work with a yacht builder that truly understands their vision, and can translate their dream design into a real vessel.

As Royal Huisman proudly state, “If you can dream it, we can build it!”

Those buying a new superyacht will therefore have many questions to ask themselves before settling on a suitable yacht builder and shipyard facility to carry out the project. Thankfully for these prospective owners, there are a number of luxury superyacht brands that have the ability to turn the biggest mega yacht dreams into reality.

Yachting Pages lists the world’s top luxury superyacht builders and their shipyard facilities , from A to Z, identifying some of the best superyachts in the world along the way.

Best luxury superyacht builders

1.  amels, netherlands.

Located in Vlissingen, Amels operates the largest superyacht boatyard in the Netherlands, and is known to be one of the best superyacht builders in the world.

Amels has been operating for over 100 years and offers both Full Custom and Limited Editions, ranging from 55 to 83 metres (180 to 272 feet) LOA. Built on a proven platform and delivered in half the time expected of standard construction superyachts, all 20+ Limited Editions projects have so far been delivered on or ahead of contract, with 55-metre (180-foot) Galene among the most recent to emerge from the yard. With several new projects currently under construction, Amels is likely to be among the top superyacht shipyards for many years to come.

2. Benetti, Italy

Founded in 1873 and headquartered in Viareggio, Benetti is the world’s largest builder of superyachts by number built, with a production capacity of 100 units per year.

Most famous for building Sir Philip Green’s 90-metre (295-foot) Lionheart in 2016, 2019 was its breakthrough year with its first 100-metre+ (328-foot+) deliveries of Lana, Luminosity and IJE. This gave Benetti 2 nd , 3 rd and 4 th spots on the Top 10 Largest Superyachts Delivered in 2019 . Luminosity is widely believed to be valued in excess of €200,000,000 and is listed with Fraser and Burgess (as of November 2020).

3. Feadship, Netherlands

The home of full-custom superyachts, Feadship is one of the few shipyards worldwide that works to create completely custom yachts. It has worked with superyacht owners since the 19 th century to create one-off luxury motor yachts that are truly unique.

Feadship currently has four shipyard facilities in the Netherlands, with expansion underway at its Amsterdam facility in Western Harbour to offer the ability to build motor yachts as long as 160 metres (525 feet). To date, there are over 250 Feadship yachts in navigation, including 99-metre (324-foot) Madame Gu, 99.95 (327-foot) Moonrise, 101-metre (333-foot) Symphony and 110-metre (361-foot) Anna.

4. Fincantieri Yachts, Italy

Fincantieri Yachts specialises in full-custom luxury pleasure yachts over 70 metres (230 feet) with no upper limit to the size or volume that it can produce. The builder currently has a range of concepts and projects, including 70-metre (230-foot) superyacht Blanche.

Having manufactured in excess of 7,000 vessels in its 230-year history, Fincantieri has a network of 18 shipyards across four continents, two design centres and a research centre, making it one of the largest Western shipyards in the world.

5. Heesen Yachts, Netherlands

Heesen Yachts is known as one of the world’s luxury yacht builders, specialising in custom superyachts in the 30- to 65-metre (98- to 213-foot) range, but with the additional capability of building vessels of 80 metres (262 feet) and above.

With a focus on quality and innovation, Heesen has created many custom yachts with no two yachts the same. Founded in 1978, it was the first Dutch shipyard to employ aluminium for yacht hulls. In its 42 years, it has delivered more than 170 yachts, with aluminium, steel, displacement, semi-displacement and revolutionary fast displacement yachts making up its fleet. Its most famous vessels include the 65-metre (213-foot) Galatica Star, 70-metre (230-foot) Galatica Super Nova and 55-metre (180-foot) Serenity.

6. Lürssen, Germany

Based in Germany, Lürssen is one of the world's leading shipyards for large luxury yacht building, with a focus on excellence in custom-built superyachts. A family-owned shipyard for four generations, it can claim the accolade of building the world’s first motor yacht back in 1886.

Responsible for building more than 13,000 vessels since 1875, Lürssen currently has eight shipyard facilities in Northern Germany, each specialising in a specific size of yacht ranging from 60 to 220 metres (197 to 722 feet) in length. Together these facilities offer 1,125,000 metres squared of space for new builds, as well as refit, repair and maintenance services.

Lürssen builds some of the largest luxury yachts in the world, including the iconic Azzam, the world’s current largest superyacht at 180 metres (590 feet) LOA.

7. Nobiskrug, Germany

Having just celebrated its 115 th anniversary, Nobiskrug began shipbuilding long before the term ‘superyacht’ was even coined. Drawing on its extensive experience in seagoing vessels, the shipyard turned to yacht building in 2000 with the completion of its inaugural superyacht project, the 92-metre (302-foot) Tatoosh. It has since delivered an impressive portfolio of innovative custom-built superyachts, pledging to work on a single project for a single client to build superyachts ready for the 22 nd century. A big statement of intent.

With two facilities in Northern Germany, the boatyard can currently build vessels ranging from 60 to 426 metres (197 to 1398 feet) in length. Over 1000 in-house employees work across the two sites, where they have developed and built numerous award-winning superyachts, including one of the industry’s most talked about vessels, 142-metre (466-foot) Sailing Yacht A.

2020 saw the launch of 80-metre (262-foot) Artefact. At 2,999 GT, Artefact is now the largest 80-metre superyacht by volume in the world and is one of the world’s first superyachts to meet IMO Tier III emissions regulations.

8. Oceanco, Netherlands

Oceanco specialises in building sophisticated custom yachts ranging from 80 to 140 metres (262 to 459 feet) in length. Offering a highly personal service to clients, Oceanco is positioned with state-of-the-art yacht building facilities in the Netherlands, and a design, sales and marketing office in Monaco.

The builder celebrated its first launch in 1992, and almost 30 years later its portfolio now includes well-known superyachts such as the 95-metre (311-foot) Indian Empress, 82-metre (269-foot) Alfa Nero, 88.5-metre (290-foot) Nirvana and 91.5-metre (300-foot) Equanimity.

9. Perini Navi, Italy

The Perini Navi Group is made up of four independent companies that operate in five specific markets: sailing yachts up to 60 metres (197 feet), large sailing yachts more than 60 metres, racing sailing yachts, fast cruising sailing yachts and Picchiotti motor yachts.

To date, the group has launched 58 sailing yachts and four motor yachts. Its track record for innovative sailing yachts has seen it set the standard for excellence in the sector, launching more yachts over 50 metres (164 feet) than any other builder. It's responsible for the iconic 88-metre (288-foot) three-masted schooner Maltese Falcon, which currently holds the title of the sixth largest sailing yacht in the world, and other award-winning sailing yachts, such as the 73-metre (239-foot) Nautilus, 70-metre (229-foot) Badis I and 64-metre (210-foot) Spirit Of The C’s.

10. Royal Huisman, Netherlands

Established in 1884, Royal Huisman is the only shipyard with two entries in the top 10 largest sailing yachts ever built. The 2020 launch of 81-metre (266-foot) Sea Eagle II was its tenth sailing yacht over 50 metres (164 feet) and its biggest yacht since 90-metre (295-foot) Athena in 2004, which was then the largest sailing yacht in the world. Despite being renowned for its luxury performance sailing yachts, Royal Huisman’s largest delivery in 2021 is expected to be “Project 403 PHI”, a featherweight 55-metre (180-foot)+ aluminium motor yacht under 500GT.

Discover how to choose your luxury yacht builder or alternatively  search for superyacht shipyards .

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The Top 10 Best Yacht Builders In The World

Here is our list of the best yacht builders on earth. Deciding which shipyard will build your luxury yacht is a complex and deeply personal choice, depending on many factors including the level of customization you want, your budget, the location of the shipyard, and the ‘feel’ you get for the yard’s vision and people.

Our list of the best yacht builders is naturally subjective and will not feature every well-known brand. Our short selection includes a range of shipyards, from manufacturers of the some of the most iconic custom-built superyachts to hugely popular production yacht builders.

Here are the best yacht builders on earth, sorted by region.

Usa – best yacht builders.

Westport is one of the dominant players in the American yacht-building market, with a hugely popular range of tri-deck and raised pilothouse motoryachts built from composite materials. Their models range from from the 112′ to 164′ (34m to 50m) series, allowing the yacht owner to customize the interior layout without the high cost and long timescale of fully-custom construction. As the largest American yacht building company in operation, Westport has a proud history of high quality yacht manufacturing dating back to 1964, with over 100 superyachts and over 170 fishing vessels launched from their Pacific Northwest Shipyard. Westport yachts are extremely popular in the US brokerage and charter market and have a reputation for holding their value well. View current Westport yachts for sale .

Christensen Yachts prides itself on the construction of American-built custom and semi-custom superyachts from fiberglass, including well known yachts M/Y CASINO ROYALE, M/Y SILVER LINING and award-winning M/Y ODESSA. Founded by superyacht owners, Christensen has a loyal following of yacht owners, many of whom are repeat customers. Currently producing yachts at its Vancouver, WA yard between 100’ to 165’ (35m to 50m) in length, Christensen was bought out in 2015 and is in the process of building America’s largest superyacht facility in Tennessee, which will construct vessels up to 70m. View current Christensen yachts for sale .

Northern Europe – Best Yacht Builders

German superyacht builder Lurssen is the builder of the largest superyacht in existence, the 590’ (180m) M/Y AZZAM, which was completed in an astonishingly quick three years. Known for superb build quality and large projects across its superyacht, naval vessel, as well as its’ yacht refit and management divisions, Lurssen is a family-run shipyard with a prestigious yacht building heritage spanning back to 1875, when it constructed the first ever motoryacht. Lurssen is the builder of 5 of the top 10 largest yachts in the world. View current Lurssen yachts for sale.

Feadship, Netherlands: For some yacht owners, the only name worth knowing is Feadship. This prestigious brand is synonymous with Dutch superyacht quality, and has a legion of steadfast and loyal fans. Dating back to 1849, Feadship creates fully custom yachts from a ‘blank slate’ beginning, priding themselves on creating supremely unique, innovative yachts that stand the test of time. There are 450 bespoke yachts currently afloat in the Feadship fleet, including M/Y HASNA, a 239’ (73m) with a revolutionary layout. Read more on Dutch yacht builders . View current Feadship yachts for sale .

Amels’ vast and high-tech superyacht facility is the largest in the Netherlands, producing iconic, high-value yachts up to 330’ (100m), including their 2017 flagship yacht, 272’ (83m) M/Y HERE COMES THE SUN. Amels offer a fully custom yacht building service, as well as their exceedingly popular Limited Edition Series, whereby the yacht owner retains control over interior and exterior design but the yacht is built on a proven platform, thereby slashing the build time. Amels also builds support yachts through their parent company, DAMEN, a heavyweight in global shipbuilding. View current Amels yachts for sale .

Dutch yacht builder Heesen is known for its aluminum and steel superyachts and innovative use of technology, as seen in the revolutionary fast displacement hull form first seen in the multi-award winning M/Y GALACTICA STAR, and the hybrid propulsion utilized in the 2017 launch of M/Y HOME. With a fleet of over 170 yachts launched since inception in 1978, Heesen is known for pushing the boundaries of what is possible in superyacht design and engineering. Heesen builds motoryachts between 100’ to 265’ (30m to 80m) in length at its Oss shipyard. View current Heesen yachts for sale .

Now owned by Lurssen, Blohm + Voss is a yachting powerhouse in its own right, constructing magnificent large superyachts including the iconic MOTOR YACHT A and 531’ (162m) M/Y ECLIPSE, currently the third-largest yacht in the world. The vast Blohm +Voss facility in Hamburg, Germany creates striking custom motoryachts and sailing yachts. View current Blohm +Voss yachts for sale.

Mediterranean – Best Yacht Builders

Benetti is a powerhouse of luxury yacht building, with a very healthy order list and a boat- building pedigree stretching back to 1873. Since 1960, Benetti has been constructing superyachts in Italy, including iconic yachts MY KINGDOM in 1980, then the largest yacht in the world at 280’ (85m), right through to recent launches such as the award-winning M/Y 11.11. Benetti is part of the Azimut-Benetti Group, the largest producer of luxury yachts in the world, building semi-custom and fully custom yachts between 100′ and 330′ (30m and 100m) long. Known for their Italian style and long history of yacht construction, Benetti has a loyal following of yacht owners who return to the yard each time they upgrade. View current Benetti yachts for sale .

The creators of one of the most well-known yachts on the planet, S/Y MALTESE FALCON, Perini Navi enjoys a superb reputation as a sailing superyacht builder, and also entered the large motoryacht market in 2007 under its Pichiotti brand. Perini Navi yachts are known for their superyacht luxuries and interior volume, as well as the technically brilliant sailing systems that allow these large yachts to be operated by a small crew. Perini Navi dominates the sailing superyacht market with its range from 130’ to 200’(40m to 60m), constructed at their three shipyards in Viareggio, La Spezia in Italy and also in Istanbul. View current Perini Navi yachts for sale .

UK – Best Yacht Builders

Sunseeker is one of the most instantly recognizable names in the yachting world, building performance luxury yachts known for their speed and sleek looks. Once better known for their smaller sport yachts, Sunseeker is now a major player in the superyacht market, with customizable yacht models from 75′ to 155′, as well as constructing the Predator range with a top speed of 45 knots. Built and engineered in Dorset, UK, Sunseeker is Britain’s most famous luxury yacht builder, creating the hand-finished yachts regularly featured on James Bond films. View current Sunseeker yachts for sale .

Worth Avenue Yachts has extensive experience with each of these yacht brands. To find out more about the relative advantages of these shipyards or the other high-quality shipyards that we recommend, please contact us for an expert discussion.

Your Vision. Your Burger.

Creating a custom-built yacht is a journey unlike any other. Conceiving your yacht alongside Burger’s engineers and design team is a remarkable experience: developing the specifics, reviewing the plans and making decisions as you watch your dreams materialize before your eyes. Burger welcomes all clients to enjoy the progression of their journey while your custom creation evolves.

The first step in delivering the yacht of your dreams is to share your vision with the Burger design team and engineering staff. Our in-depth design brief helps define your priorities for a yacht. We recommend touring the Burger shipyard where you can meet our exceptional team, learn how your yacht will be constructed and to witness the true value of Burger’s experience and craftsmanship.

After defining your vision, your dreams will begin to take shape in dramatic conceptual designs, renderings and cost estimates, presented for your direction and approval before moving forward.

Conceptual designs and renderings include:

• Hull designs
• Exterior styling and interior floor plans
• Interior elevation renderings
• Engines, propulsion and electric generation equipment selection
• Special requirements, including recreational and/or shore tenders and storage options
• Navigation electronics and entertainment system descriptions

Once you’ve approved the design, Burger will prepare a detailed design and specification breakdown with descriptions of every step in your yacht’s construction; from its development milestones to key points of approval. With a finalized and signed contract, your yacht is on the way to fruition. Each step of the build is documented before work begins, with a detailed timeline that describes each step of the process, so that you remain involved and aware of our progress, every step of the way.

Months of careful planning and construction culminate when it’s time to launch your new Burger yacht. Along with the Burger team, you and/or your captain take your new Burger yacht through various sea trials, including at-sea observations and detailed walk-through inspections. At this stage, final modifications and refinements are made.

Congratulations; owning a Burger built for you also means you’ve joined the most exclusive fleet of yachts in the world. Our craftsmen share your pride in seeing your new yacht launched, and value each customer relationship that endures long after delivery. Bringing your dreams to reality is what makes every Burger yacht unique and extraordinary.

With your Burger set out into open waters, a new journey begins.

Custom Yachts

View Burger's full fleet of custom yachts, uniquely crafted to each owner's vision of limitless luxury.

Design Concepts

Explore Burger's newest design concepts and yachts under construction — and bring your ideas to their design.

Why build a yacht with Burgess?

Build a yacht

Discover the Burgess difference

Commissioning a bespoke superyacht is an exhilarating yet complex journey. With multiple decisions to make along the way, we guide you from your initial vision to maiden voyage and beyond.

We share your vision to achieve the remarkable

We reduce the risk and increase your enjoyment. Whether seeking a fully customised vessel or looking at the latest semi-custom platforms, our highly-skilled Technical Services team provides decades of experience and expertise, working together with you to realise your dream.

Dedicated in-house team working on your behalf

Every project offers a unique set of challenges, and for each we offer the complete range of technical, engineering and project management services in‐house, collectively serving as your personal project consultant. We have every angle covered, every step of the way.

Providing an unforgettable build experience

From vision to design brief to build, sea trials and delivery, we continue to be involved throughout the agreed construction period, offering peace of mind and a single point of contact. Your dream, our knowledge, one unique result.

• Delivered yachts

We successfully deliver more yachts in the 30-180m and over market than any other new construction team in the world.

• Length: 80.1m (262.8ft)
• Built: 2023
• Bilgin, Turkey

• Length: 87m (285.4ft)
• Built: 2020
• Lurssen, Germany

• Length: 60.6m (198.8ft)
• Built: 2022
• Heesen, The Netherlands

• Length: 107.6m (353ft)
• Benetti, Italy

• Length: 57m (187ft)
• Built: 2019
• Damen, The Netherlands

• Length: 56m (183.7ft)

• Length: 55m (180.4ft)
• Amels, The Netherlands

• Length: 93m (305.1ft)
• Feadship, The Netherlands

BRAVO EUGENIA

• Length: 109m (357.6ft)
• Built: 2018
• Oceanco, The Netherlands

• Length: 74.5m (244.4ft)
• Abeking & Rasmussen, Germany

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Abeking & Rasmussen

Founded in 1907, Abeking & Rasmussen is globally renowned for producing high-quality custom motor yachts from 45-125m.

AKYACHT is an ISO 9001, Lloyd's-certified shipyard in Turkey. Its first breakthrough project was the spectacular 85m VICTORIOUS, the biggest superyacht ever built in Turkey.

Alia Yachts

Alia Yachts was founded in 2008 in Antalaya, Turkey. Its Lloyd's certified facilities are equipped for cutting edge yacht construction in carbon reinforced composite, steel and aluminium up to 80m.

Established in 1854, Cantiere Baglietto Spa specialises in the construction of new planing aluminium yachts between 35-50m in length, and steel and aluminium displacement superyachts over 40m.

With three facilities spread across Viareggio and Livorno in Italy, and rich brand heritage, Benetti is a leading light in the production of 35-70m superyachts.

Cantiere delle Marche

The Ancona-based Cantiere delle Marche (CdM), founded in 2010, builds 26-48m explorer yachts in steel and aluminum. CdM is the No.1 expedition yacht builder worldwide for the third year running.

With origins dating back to 1825, Codecasa is a family company specialising in the building of large yachts in steel and aluminium up to 72m in length and fast motoryachts up to 50m in length.

CRN Shipyards

Founded in Ancona in 1963, CRN yachts are often characterised by a distinctive pointed bow, which has become something of a signature for this Italian yard.

Custom Line

Founded in 1996, brand of Ferretti Group and based in Ancona, Italy, Custom Line designs and builds planing and displacement yachts in composite from 30-42m in length with over 250 yachts delivered.

Damen Yachting

Damen Yachting is the master yacht builder behind more than 100 Amels superyachts, SeaXplorer expedition yachts, yacht support vessels and major yacht refits.

Delta Marine

Located in Seattle, Washington, Delta Marine has a worldwide reputation for producing custom-built luxury yachts of up to 100m in length.

Based in the Netherlands and with roots dating back to 1849, Feadship is recognised as the world leader in the field of pure custom superyachts.

Fincantieri

Fincantieri Yachts, part of the leading Western shipbuilder Fincantieri, is a world leader in both superyacht and cruise ship design and construction.

Heesen Yachts

Renowned for its innovation, Heesen is the world leader in aluminium construction, and dominates the 50-60m semi-custom market.

Located in Ancona, ISA Yachts builds luxury superyachts from 44-80m in steel, aluminium and fibreglass.

Lürssen

Based in Germany, Lürssen is the leading shipyard for large luxury yacht building as well as refit of yachts from 50-200m.

Mariotti Yachts

Mariotti is a world leader in the fields of ultra-luxury cruise shipbuilding, superyachts and supply vessel construction.

Located in Northern Germany, Nobiskrug has built over 750 seagoing vessels, delivering a select portfolio of custom superyachts including the 143m Sailing Yacht A.

Oceanco builds award-winning large custom yachts, such as the 106.7m Black Pearl, the world's largest and most sustainable sailing yacht, and the 110m Jubilee, the largest Dutch-built yacht.

Pendennis is a world-class custom build and refit yard in Falmouth, UK, specialising in luxury sail and motor yachts between 30-100m.

Perini Navi

Renowned for pioneering automation and furling systems in large sailing yachts, Perini Navi today builds both sailing and motor yachts, most famous of which is MALTESE FALCON.

Established in 1980, Rossinavi builds custom superyachts between 40-70m in four locations between Viareggio and Pisa.

Royal Hakvoort

A family shipyard since 1919, Royal Hakvoort builds luxury yachts in steel and aluminium up to 65m in length.

Royal Huisman

A family-owned shipyard established in 1884, Royal Huisman specialises in the build and repair of custom luxury sailing yachts, as well as motor yachts.

Founded in 1958, Sanlorenzo builds a limited number of high quality, made to measure superyachts at its shipyard in La Spezia, Italy. Today, Sanlorenzo ranks highly among builders of Superyachts over 40m.

Tankoa Yachts

Tankoa specialises in semi-custom and custom yachts of 50-90m with Northern European quality and Italian DNA for design and flexibility.

The Italian Sea Group

TISG operates in the new-built industry with the brands Admiral (yachts over 50m) and Tecnomar (yachts up to 45m) while it works in the refitting industry with the brand NCA Refit (yachts over 60m).

Turquoise Yachts

Turquoise Yachts (formerly known as Proteksan Turquoise) is a builder of custom power and sailing superyachts, and Dr. Al Barwani, owner of Oceanco, recently became the majority shareholder.

Based in Zwartsluis, The Netherlands, Vitters has established a reputation for delivering sailing yachts of uncompromising quality and innovative design.

• Yacht designers

Bannenberg & Rowell Design

A luxury yacht and jet design company based in London’s Fulham. Headed up by Dickie Bannenberg, son of the great Jon Bannenberg, the studio is renowned for creative, contemporary and approachable design – both interior and exterior.

Espen Oeino

Under the leadership of the eponymous Norwegian naval architect, Espen Oeino International has been designing iconic superyacht interiors and exteriors since the 1990s. Based in Monaco the studio has worked with Burgess on several projects, most notably the 72m Trinity Yachts-built ALBATROSS and the 156m Lurssen DILBAR, the largest yacht afloat by volume.

H2 Yacht Design

Jonny Horsfield established H2 Yacht design in London in 1994. Today it is a multi-disciplined exterior and interior styling team that has earned a reputation for challenging conventions in yacht design. The studio has so far collaborated on five projects with Burgess, most recently with Heesen.

Harrison Eidsgaard

International yacht designers and architects, Harrison Eidsgaard Design is headed up by its three partners, Peder and Ewa Eidsgaard and Ben Harrison. Undertaking both exterior and interior styling, the studio’s most notable yachts to date include the award-winning TANGO and ELANDESS, the latter being the studio’s first project with Burgess.

Jonathan Quinn Barnett leads a talented team of award-winning yacht designers. Established in 1995, the studio has created original exterior yacht designs and interior architecture for discerning clients in the luxury marketplace. With a critical eye on proportion and detail, designs of distinction associated with Burgess include the interior of OCTOPUS and popular charter yacht MUCHOS MAS.

Michael Leach Design

Established in 1997 by Mick Leach with Mark Smith joining in 1999, MLD is an multi award-winning design practice specialising in marine, aviation and residential projects. With over 60 years’ industry experience collectively, having worked in various top design offices, MLD is now established as one of the industry’s leading and most successful design offices.

Reymond Langton Design

Headed up by design duo Pascale Reymond and Andrew Langton, the London-based studio was founded in 2001. The studio has since delivered 28 motor and sailing yachts, including the 134m SERENE, the largest yacht built in Italy at that time. Originally based in London, the studio’s HQ has since moved to the historic city of Bath.

Situated in the stunning surrounds of Beaulieu in the New Forest, RWD is best known for the design of superyachts such as motor yacht HASNA and sailing yacht TWIZZLE. Founded in 1993, RWD has to date completed six collaborative projects with Burgess.

Sorgiovanni Designs

Established by yacht designer Sam Sorgiovanni in 1997, the eponymous design studio is based in Perth, Australia, and undertakes both exterior and interior designs. The studio’s unique location lends a point of difference to its body of work and it has become well-known for designing superyachts with an exotic feel, as well as great attention to detail.

Terence Disdale Design

Terence Disdale Design is an award-winning design studio located in London, and responsible for the interior and exterior design of the some of the world's most significant yachts. Renowned for a ‘beach house’ style, the studio’s most notable yachts include ECLIPSE and PELORUS, and it has no fewer than 10 collaborative projects with Burgess to date.

Tim Heywood Design

A multi-award-winning exterior yacht designer, Tim Heywood Design has produced some of the largest yachts on water, including the 133m AL MIRQAB. Located in Hampshire, the eponymous yacht designer cut his teeth under the guidance of Jon Bannenberg and in the 40 years since has completed six collaborative projects with Burgess.

Winch Design

A full-service award-winning British design and architecture studio specialising in the exterior and interior styling of motor and sailing yachts, aircraft, residential and commercial properties, Winch Design was established in 1986 and has to date completed seven collaborative projects with Burgess.

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America’s 10 Best Yacht Builders

In America, the yachting industry might not be as established. Yet, today, America’s best luxury yacht builders continue to put out award-winning and state-of-the-art designs. Who are America’s best yacht builders?

From Christensen to Trinity, we countdown the best yacht builders in America and highlight what makes each shipyard unique. Here are our favorites:

1. Christensen

Christensen is one of the most established yacht builders in the U.S., and the company is known for its completely custom yachts. Each yacht the company produces is designed according to owner specifications.

Known for its classic hull design, and upscale finishes, Christensen produces some of the most luxurious superyachts in the U.S. That’s thanks in part to the builder’s in-house design team. Many other builders outsource design. Plus, the builder is known for its exquisite interiors, featuring spacious layouts and the finest finishes. Christensen also regularly wins innovation awards for their efficient and powerful displacement systems and state-of-the-art stabilization.

2. Westport

Since 1964, Westport has been a leader in yacht design and manufacturing in the U.S. And its earned a reputation for developing sporty, classically-styled superyachts.

That wasn’t always the case. Originally, Westport designed and built commercial fishing vessels, but today, Westport focuses exclusively on luxury motor yachts, including 34-, 38-, 40- and 50-meter yachts. Westport’s raised pilothouse and tri-deck yachts feature classic nautical hulls with modern touches. The interiors are sleek and comfortable and known for their spacious outdoor deck areas.

3. Derecktor

Derecktor is one of the country’s oldest yacht builders. It was founded on Long Island, NY in 1947, and during its early years, the company produced commercial fishing and passenger vessels. (Even today, Derecktor manufacturers high-speed ferries for cities around the world.)

Derecktor’s output has changed quite a bit in its 70-year history. Today, the company continues to build commercial vessels, but it’s also a top builder of custom motor yachts. Derecktor produces both explorer yachts and motor yachts, and many of its luxury motor yachts feature explorer-inspired designs. Many Derecktor yachts, for example, feature towering superstructures positioned forward. This opens up an abundance of aft-deck space for outdoor dining areas, beach clubs, and even helipads.

In addition to style, Derecktor yachts are renowned for their performance. They might be sizable. But they’re fast, and the ride is stable.

4. Hatteras

Hatteras is a legendary name in American shipbuilding, known for its high-speed and beautiful motor yachts. Initially, the shipyard focused entirely on sportfish yachts – something they’re still known for today. Yet, the company’s line-up of motor yachts offers the best of the best in luxury yachting.

Hatteras offers a full range of superyachts, including the 100 RPH, a stunning 102-foot raised pilothouse motoryacht, and the M90. Hatteras certainly shows its sporty roots in all of its designs; Hatteras exteriors are sleek and streamlined, sharing design details with its sportfish line.

At Trinity , size is the name of the game. The Gulfport-based shipyard produces yachts up to 123 meters (400 feet), including some of the largest luxury yachts ever built in the U.S.

The yachtbuilder has many signatures. For example, classic nautical architecture is one. Trinity produces some of the most inspiring superstructure designs that feature sleek lines and an abundance of glass. When you charter a Trinity yacht, you’ll have plenty of places to relax, as most of their designs incorporate an abundance of deck space. In the past, that’s include beautiful sky lounges and sprawling aft-deck dining/bar areas.

Below deck, Trinity yachts delivers spacious layouts. The yachtbuilder is know for their opulent owner’s suites and staterooms, as well as stunning salons.

6. Broward Marine

Founded by legendary boatbuilder Frank Denison in the 1950s, Broward Marine has been a leader in superyacht design throughout its history. For example, in 1954, Broward launched its first luxury superyacht, ALISA V. At the time, the 96-footer was a behemoth – similar in grandness to today’s megayachts of 150+ feet.

The Alisa paved a path for the company, which shifted its focus exclusively to luxury motoryachts. In the 1980s, for example, Broward was quick to respond to the trend of the superyachts; Broward sold some 80 yachts in the 1980s, an impressive sales feat.

Under new management in the early 2000s, the company continued its focus on stunning megayachts in the 100- to 160-foot range. Broward yachts are grand in scale, with stunning tri-deck and raised pilothouse designs, and they’re also some of the first to feature farmhouse kitchens. Today, the company focuses primarily on refits, but many of their majestic yachts are still available for charter.

7. Hargrave

Hargrave has been producing yachts since the 1950s, and throughout its history, the shipyard has built a reputation for inspiring yacht designs. In fact, the company initially only focused on design. Founder Jack Hargrave, the famed nautical designer, worked closely with other top U.S. yacht builders including Burger and Hatteras, helping to launch numerous brands.

In 1997, the company transitioned from design to designing and building its own luxury yachts. The company quickly made a name for itself. Hargrave has won numerous awards for its sporty tri-decks and sportfish-inspired motoryachts. Hargrave yachts feature contemporary interiors, matched with sleek profiles.

A Horizon yacht has a distinctive look. The company’s yachts have stately exteriors with tons of classic nautical architectural details. Inside, too, Horizon yachts have a lot of character. Most Horizon yachts feature sprawling windows, creating light and airy interior spaces.

Today, the company produces yachts in the 56- to 150-foot range, and their offerings include power catamarans, tri-decks and raised pilothouse motor yachts.

If you’re looking for a power cat, that’s a Horizon specialty. The company’s PC Series features a range of mid-sized power cats up to about 80 feet, with numerous concept yachts in the works. Yet, Horizon does it all. You’ll find Horizon yachts in just about any style, from Fast Displacement yachts (FD Series), to customized tri-decks (CC Series).

The Burger Boat Company is one of the most historic shipbuilders in the U.S. Originally launched in 1863, the company has built more than 500 yachts in its history (more than 250 of which are still in operation). The company was a pioneer in steel yacht building, but today, Burger primary builds aluminum yachts.

Burger produces a range of custom tri-deck motor yachts, ranging from 112- to 214-foot motor yachts. Burger boats have a distinctive look and feel. They have spacious deck areas, like the wrap-around deck on its current 214-foot tri-deck concept, as well as innovative exterior lounge areas.

10. Delta Marine

For more than 50 years, Delta Marine has been producing world-class motor yachts from its headquarters in Seattle. The boatbuilder is known for its sleek exterior designs. Delta Marine yachts feature clean, flowing lines throughout, and the company produces a range of raised pilothouse and tri-deck motor yachts.

Plus, the interiors are completely custom. As such, no two Delta Marine yachts look the same, and the interiors are as unique as their owners. Delta yachts are also well-known for their performance. Many feature performance-minded hulls, and feature state-of-the-art displacement systems.

Plan Your Next Luxury Yacht Charter with Worldwide Boat

Worldwide Boat offers exclusive access to vessels from America’s best luxury yacht builders. Want to hire a Trinity Yacht for your next vacation? We can help.

Plus, our charter brokers are experts on each builder’s specialties. Contact your broker today to learn more about any of our exclusive charter yachts .

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Build a Yacht: New Yacht Construction

Building a custom yacht from inception to delivery.

Northrop & Johnson is proud to be affiliated with some of the world’s most innovative and award-winning yacht builders, refit yards, designers, naval architects and suppliers. Our reliable brokers can mediate between future owners and yards to help design the perfect custom yacht to suit the owner’s exact needs while maintaining a stress-free environment and seamless build experience. Northrop & Johnson brokers will help new-build owners facilitate every aspect of the process, from choosing the right shipyard and designer to advising on legal issues and project management. By drawing on our established relationships with the world’s industry leaders in these sectors, Northrop & Johnson can promise a flawless new-build process from inception to delivery.

The Northrop & Johnson Advantage

Why work with us

Building a custom yacht is an exciting and rewarding experience but can also be daunting. At Northrop & Johnson, we understand the intricacies and complexities of the yacht-building process and have the expertise and resources to guide you through every step of the way. Here are just a few reasons why you should choose Northrop & Johnson to build your dream yacht:

Market Leader in Building, Selling and Managing Superyachts

Northrop & Johnson has been a market leader in building, selling, and managing superyachts since its inception. Our track record speaks for itself: in 2022, we signed seven new builds worth $153 million, more than any other brokerage firm, according to Superyacht Times’ 2022 market report. Our team has completed more than 129 new builds, giving us unparalleled experience and expertise in yacht building.

Deep Knowledge of the Entire Yacht Building Process

Many of our Northrop & Johnson brokers and team members began their careers in the shipyards, giving them a deep knowledge of the entire process from start to finish. This means they have a fundamental understanding of the language of shipyards and the in-depth industry knowledge required to oversee the whole project. From regulations and market trends to design and tech innovations, our team has the expertise to ensure your dream yacht is future-proofed and built to the highest possible standards.

Specialist Industry Insight and Regular Shipyard Tours

Because we’re so active in the industry, we know what the shipyards are doing, which ones have open build slots and the strengths and specializations of each yard. Several of our expert brokers have extensive executive experience at these yards, and our culture of family and collaboration means they are only too happy to step in to help. With regular tours of yards worldwide, our team of yacht brokers is perfectly positioned to advise which builders suit your unique vision.

These tours allow us to stay current on the latest trends, innovations, and developments in yacht construction. We observe first-hand how different shipyards approach construction and the new techniques and technologies they use to design and build yachts. This knowledge is then passed on to our clients, allowing you to benefit from the latest advancements. It is also an opportunity for us to assess the quality of different shipyards’ work, ensuring our clients’ yachts are built to the highest possible standards.

Greater Flexibility and Choice

With our extensive, active network of shipyards, we can offer you greater flexibility regarding scheduling and availability. When one shipyard is fully booked or unavailable, we can quickly pivot to another without compromising quality or timelines. Your dedicated broker will only be to happy to arrange for you tours of shipyards, allowing you to see firsthand the quality and craftsmanship of different shipyards.

Behind the Scenes

To aid you in your decision-making process, we have partnered with renowned YouTuber David Seal, a respected figure in the yachting industry. His YouTube channels, Yachts for Sale and Yacht Builders, offer an inside look into shipyards and their construction process and techniques, providing a better understanding of what goes on behind the scenes.

Post-Delivery Services

Once your vision has come to life, we can cover all your yachting needs with our network of established and experienced companies under the trusted MarineMax umbrella. From ongoing yacht management, berthing, insurance and recruitment to charter management, brokerage and even bespoke luxury experiences you won’t find anywhere else, we offer a complete 360-degree in-house service.

How do we manage new build projects?

There’s only one way to get the yacht you really want: to build it from the keel up. Building a superyacht can be a complicated, long-haul project. Our job is to act as your guide, advisor and single point of contact to simplify the entire process. We bridge the gap between you and the shipyards, designers, engineers, architects, lawyers, project managers and technical representatives.

In short, our brokers act on your behalf to help build the yacht of your dreams at the highest quality and the best price possible, ensuring each step of the build is done accurately and to the most stringent standards.

We’ll be there every step of the way to turn your concept into reality and to make the journey unforgettable—in the very best way possible.

And once your yacht has been launched, we’ll be on hand to enhance your experience with our suite of post-build services thanks to our in-house MarineMax expertise, from ongoing yacht management, berthing, insurance and crew recruitment to yacht charter, brokerage and more

Phases of a new build

The construction of a new yacht is an exciting and rewarding process, requiring careful planning and attention to detail. While each new construction and shipyard will be unique, they follow a similar approach.

Design and planning

This is the first and most crucial phase of any new build. Our team will work closely with you to determine your needs and preferences. We will need to discuss your specific requirements: What kind of build do you want? Where do you plan to cruise? What kind of performance will your vessel need? What spaces and amenities do you envision having aboard?

We will then advise which shipyards, architects and designers are the most suitable for your project and work with them to create a customized design to meet your needs.

Hull construction

Once the design is finalized, hull construction begins. Our team will liaise with your chosen shipyard to ensure that high-quality materials and advanced construction techniques are used to create a strong and durable hull that will withstand the rigors of the sea. Throughout the hull construction phase, we closely communicate with the shipyard to monitor progress and ensure the work is carried out to your specifications.

Interior and deck construction

With the hull complete, the focus shifts to the interiors and deck spaces. Skilled artisans will install wiring, plumbing and other systems and create the various rooms and interior and exterior living spaces.

Sea trials and delivery

The final construction phase involves several sea trials to test the yacht’s performance and ensure all systems function correctly. Once this has been completed to your satisfaction, your vessel is ready to be delivered.

Yacht design

What sort of build are you interested in? You have options.

Generally, there are three kinds of builds, each with pros and cons. They depend on the level of customization you’d like.

Production builds are usually part of a line of pre-designed vessels. They often have standard features and accessories and offer the least customizability. They usually are the fastest to deliver and the least expensive option but can be hard to modify or upgrade after purchase. However, because they are pre-designed, they’re a proven platform with demonstrated quality.

Semi-custom

Semi-custom builds are a compromise between production and fully custom builds. They offer many customizable opportunities—particularly concerning interior and exterior décor, design, appliances and finishes—and allow the owner to be closely involved in the build. Like production builds, they are part of a pre-designed line, expediting build time and reducing costs and risk.

Entirely custom builds are naturally the most expensive and time-intensive option. However, nothing is off limits, from the size and layout to amenities, interior and exterior design and technical specifications.

Whichever you envision, we know the right experts for you.

After-sales support

With the delivery of your superyacht, your journey will have only just begun.

Yacht ownership should be enjoyable and hassle-free, which is why we can cater to all your needs in-house with our established MarineMax companies. With 360-degree support, we’re with you all the way.

Here are the services we can offer you.

Yacht Management – Place your luxury yacht in the right hands with the services of our superyacht management team.

Berthing – Whether you purchase or rent a berth or a mooring, there is peace of mind in knowing that your yacht has a safe harbor available at all times.

Insurance – Yacht insurance gives you the confidence to cruise anywhere in the world without worry.

Crew Recruitment – Our crew services experts specialize in accurately placing crew members on the appropriate yachts and guiding the successful careers of thousands worldwide.

Charter Marketing – Allow your luxury yacht to be so much more by offering her for charter, enabling you to enjoy charter revenue while cruising at your own leisure.

Yacht Marketing – As a global leader in yacht marketing, our inter-connected, highly specialized creative team executes your custom marketing plan, supporting your charter or sale. As the only yacht brokerage firm with an in-house video production team, we can also follow the construction of your yacht.

Brokerage – Due to our broker’s knowledge, experience and ability to negotiate at the highest level, Northrop & Johnson is the world leader in selling luxury yachts over 80 feet (24m). Appointing Northrop & Johnson as your representative will ensure your yacht’s successful and timely sale.

Partnerships – We are proud to partner with some of the most exclusive premium brands in the yachting and luxury sectors, enabling us to offer you an elevated level of service and added benefits.

Concept Yachts for Sale

Shipyards & builders.

Abeking & Rasmussen Northern Europe

Acico Yachts Northern Europe

Admiral Yachts Southern Europe

Amels Northern Europe

Arksen Yachts Western Europe

Azimut Southern Europe

Baglietto Southern Europe

Benetti Southern Europe

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Blohm + Voss Northern Europe

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Cantieri di Pisa Southern Europe

Cheoy Lee Asia

Christensen North America

CMN Northern Europe

Codecasa Southern Europe

CRN Southern Europe

Custom Line Italy

Delta North America

Derecktor Shipyard North America

Feadship Northern Europe

Ferretti Yachts Southern Europe

Hakvoort Shipyard Northern Europe

Hargrave Custom Yachts North America

Hatteras North America

Heesen Northern Europe

Holland Jachtbouw Northern Europe

Horizon Asia

Icon Yachts Northern Europe

Infiniti Yachts Western Europe

ISA Yachts Southern Europe

Lazzara Yachts North America

Lürssen Northern Europe

Marlow Yachts North America

Mondomarine Southern Europe

Moonen Yachts Northern Europe

Nautor's Swan Northern Europe

Nobiskrug Northern Europe

Nordhavn North America

Numarine Southern Europe

Ocean Alexander Asia

Oceanco Shipyard Northern Europe

Overmarine Mangusta Southern Europe

Palmer Johnson North America

Palumbo Southern Europe

Perini Navi Southern Europe

Pershing Southern Europe

Picchiotti Southern Europe

Princess Northern Europe

RMK Marine Southern Europe

Rossinavi Southern Europe

Sanlorenzo Southern Europe

Sirena Yachts Turkey

Sunrise Yachts Southern Europe

Sunseeker Northern Europe

Tankoa Southern Europe

Trinity Yachts North America

Turquoise Yachts Southern Europe

Van der Valk Western Europe

Vicem Yachts Southern Europe

Viking Yachts North America

Wally Western Europe

Westport North America

Wider Italy

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Building a Yacht: Top Things to Know About the Yacht-building Process

Owning a yacht and having the freedom to explore our beautiful planet by boat is a dream shared by many. But building a yacht is a long and complex process. Should you be one of the fortunate ocean explorers who will get the opportunity to have your semi custom yacht built from scratch, you will undoubtedly require the services of an experienced and knowledgeable boat builder.

Knysna Yacht Company is a boutique yacht-building company based in the picturesque coastal town of Knysna on South Africa's world-famous Garden Route, and crafting beautiful, artisan-made semi custom yachts for clients around the globe is what we do best.

Having your yacht designed and built by a professional, acclaimed yacht builder like KYC will not only see you sailing off in a unique boat that was built to the highest standards. It will also ensure that you are a pivotal part of your yacht's design and construction process, right from the very outset. 

While KYC builds your yacht, your input will not only be valued, it will be sought out and encouraged, with your particular tastes and preferences incorporated in every aspect of your boat's construction. 

Continuous consultation and communication with the KYC team of expert yacht builders will see you taking to the seas in a boat that not only complements your personal style, but one that can truly be your home on the high seas.

Read on as we take a closer look at the various aspects of the semi custom yacht building process.

#1: What are the trademarks of a semi custom yacht?

When you first start to do your yacht-buying research, you'll no doubt come across various types of yachts available for purchase. Most of these will be standard, production yachts.

With a production yacht, what you see is truly what you get. There are virtually zero customizations that you can make to the layout or interior of an off-the-shelf production yacht,

A semi custom yacht, however, will afford you much more opportunity to add all those little touches that will make your boat a true extension of your personal style and tastes. 

Even though semi custom yachts are built on a standard hull, when it comes to trims and finishes, appliances and the interior layout, that is all up to you.7The planning and design of a semi custom yacht can be compared to working with a home builder. Many larger home building companies have several base floor plans to select from, with the selection of cabinets, finishes, layout, and other details entirely up to the owner. It's the same with the design of a semi custom yacht.

#2: The advantages of a semi custom yacht

You might be wondering if a semi custom yacht is a better option than a standard production yacht. Buying a production yacht may save you money, but going for the cheapest option is not always the best choice.

There are clear advantages to having your own semi custom yacht built by professional yacht builders. One of those advantages is that you will personally be involved in the entire process of your yacht's construction.

A semi custom yacht build takes around 12 months to complete, allowing you ample time to really get stuck into the various design, building and finishing aspects of your boat.

In addition, you will almost certainly be cementing a long-lasting relationship with the dedicated team that is building your boat. Should you choose KYC as your yacht builder, this relationship will continue long after your boat's build is complete.

With a semi custom yacht, the price may be higher than what you'd pay for a standard production yacht (although the costs of KYC's boutique semi custom yachts compare very well with some new production yachts on the market).

But, if you choose to go for a semi custom yacht, you'll be getting much more than just a boat.

You'll be setting sail in a vessel you can take immense pride in, because you would have played a central role in crafting your boat to your exact tastes and specifications. If you select KYC as your yacht builder, you can also look forward to the many benefits of becoming a member of the KYC family of yacht owners. 

This means you'll enjoy the support and expertise of an experienced team of yacht-building professionals for many years to come.

#3: Semi custom vs. production yacht

The advantages of having your own semi custom yacht built for you may be clear, but how do these boats compare to standard production yachts ?

Well, one major difference is alterations. When you're having a semi custom yacht built, you can make changes as you go. With a standard production yacht, you are buying the boat pre-made. Alterations to a production yacht after the fact can cost a lot of money, and may not be that simple – or safe – to execute.

Why would altering a production yacht post-sale be a safety risk? A production yacht's design and aesthetics may hide pre-existing flaws in the boat's construction. In itself, this could already pose potential safety risks. Making further changes or additions to a yacht that may already contain pre-existing design flaws would not be a wise course of action, and could be very dangerous indeed.

If you're involved in every step of the build of your semi custom yacht, you will have the opportunity to closely inspect your boat at every stage of its construction. This is a valuable advantage that could potentially allow you to avoid safety issues and layout problems relating to your boat.

#4: Building a semi custom yacht

If you choose to have yacht builders build your semi custom yacht from scratch, you'll be involved in every step of the process. For this reason, it will be in your interest to know as much as possible about your boat's building process.

So, what is the actual process of building a semi custom yacht?

Building the hull

The first stage of the yacht-building process involves the "bones" of your yacht. During this stage, your yacht's hull and superstructure are made.

Unless they have commissioned a completely custom yacht to be built from the ground up, boat owners typically aren't involved in the selection of their boat's hull. However, it is important to know what this process involves.

Constructing a boat's hull is a process that takes four to six months to complete and takes place in a boat builder's aluminium or steel workshop. A steel yacht hull is extremely durable, but it will add a lot of weight to the overall weight of your boat.

Steel is one of the most common hull-construction materials, as it can be constructed and maintained with low technology, and at a relatively low cost.

Aluminium or alloy hulls are one of the better options available for hull construction, as they are so much lighter. These hulls offer the durability and longevity of steel hulls, but add only a fraction of the weight of a steel hull to your yacht.

After your yacht's hull is complete, it will have to go through a rinsing and priming process before your boat will be ready for the next step in its construction: finishing.

Finishing the yacht

Once your yacht's hull is complete, the second stage of your yacht's build can commence. This is the part where you'll start to see your boat "come to life".

The finishing process of your yacht is made up of several stages, including:

• Installing the yacht systems
• Interior and exterior carpentry
• Insulating the yacht
• Varnishing the yacht interior
• Spray painting the hull/superstructure
• Installing the mast

Semi custom yachts are beautiful machines. And, under such a boat's surface, a lot goes on to keep that beautiful machine moving and functioning as a self-contained living unit on the water. A large network of wiring and systems will be expertly installed to keep your yacht running smoothly and safely.

Yacht systems

It takes several systems for your new boat to run, including a navigation system, anchoring system, electrical system, propulsion system, air conditioning system, water systems, and more.

Each of your yacht's systems requires an expert team possessing the necessary knowledge and expertise to install it correctly and efficiently. Some people set sail with a yacht engineer as part of their crew team, to keep everything running smoothly onboard. However, KYC offers all new Knysna yacht owners a complimentary, 2-week training period during which they are shown and taught everything they need to know in order to maintain their yacht's systems themselves.

Gel coating & interior and exterior carpentry

A yacht's gel-coating process is done with a resin that bonds with the fibreglass surfaces throughout your boat. Gel coating ensures no leaks and cracks on a yacht's surface, but it can also be applied to add more colour to your boat.

Since most yacht hulls and exteriors are finished in fibreglass, gel coating becomes an extremely important part of the yacht-building process.

After gel coating, the interior of the yacht receives a protective varnish. The yacht exterior is also gel-coated and waterproofed to prevent leaks and ensure the boat is completely sealed.

Carpentry is also an essential component of your new yacht. Marine carpentry experts are required for both the interior carpentry (think bathroom cabinets, kitchen counters and seating), as well as the decks and other carpentry aspects on the boat's exterior.

Yacht builders and their teams

If you select to have your yacht built by a big yacht-building company, a project manager will be appointed to oversee your yacht's construction, making sure the entire process runs smoothly. Project managers are typically the face of a boat-building company, and clients will deal with their boat's project manager as their point of contact throughout their yacht's construction process.

Underneath the project manager, you'll likely have a team of engineers, systems installers, artisans, an interior designer, and a few legal team members.

Should you choose to have your semi custom yacht built by KYC, you will be dealing directly with KYC’s owners. You will also have access to your under-construction yacht at all times, ensuring that the lines of communication remain open and that your needs are being met.

Selecting the right yacht builder

It's essential to choose the yacht builder best suited for your particular project. There are several questions you should ask yourself before selecting a company to build your yacht.

First, you will have to decide on the type of vessel you want. Many boat builders specialise in certain types of boats. Knowing what type of boat you want will be the first step toward deciding which yacht builder is right for you.

Next, you'll want to figure out how far you'll typically be sailing. This is known as your yacht's range. If you're only planning on doing shorter sailing trips, that will require a specific type of boat. If you want to sail out on the ocean for weeks or months at a time, that will require a different kind of boat entirely.

Finally, ask yourself how long you're willing to wait for your new boat . This wait is known as your lead time. If you're okay with waiting 2-4 years for your yacht to be built, then you can consider selecting a fully custom yacht. 

Semi custom yachts, including KYC’s artisan-built Knysna 500SE and Knysna 550 yachts can be completed much faster. This will vary from builder to builder, but most semi custom yachts have a much shorter lead time than a fully custom boat that is built from scratch.

Financing a semi custom yacht

Financing a boat that is yet to be built is notoriously difficult, with most banks and financial institutions only willing to provide loans for completed boats. At KYC, we offer clients a Yacht Construction Financing Option, allowing them full flexibility to pay off building costs over the boat's complete building timeframe.

Become a yacht owner faster

Let us answer your yacht-building questions!

Read our blog article on yacht financing and learn more about KYC's unique Yacht Construction Financing Option.

Let us answer your yacht-building questions

There are lots of points to consider when you're thinking of having a boat built. 

Our team of KYC yacht-building experts will help you navigate the yacht-building process to ensure that your journey towards ultimate freedom is smooth sailing every step of the way.

Don't hesitate to send us a message at [email protected] and let us know how we can help.

Yacht Maintenance - Top Tips for Protecting Your Investment

Essential things to know about boat insurance, top things to know about yacht solar power, get all the latest to your inbox, discovery awaits.

California man who participated in email fraud to steal more than $3 million from boatbuilding companies sentenced to 16 months in prison

According to records filed in the case, including the plea agreement, in October 2018, Redd entered a scheme with a co-conspirator in Pennsylvania and others. The scheme began when a malicious link was sent to an email address of an employee at the engine-building company. The link allowed the conspirators to gain access to the company’s email system and review various emails, including those transmitting invoices. The conspirators then posed as a billing executive at the engine manufacturing company and sent the boat-building company instructions to wire the payment funds to a specific bank account. The conspirators had set up a fake company and the account at a Pennsylvania bank specifically to receive these funds. The false emails indicated the engine-building company’s usual bank account was undergoing an audit and said that the engine-building company therefore needed to use a different bank than it had previously. 

Seattle – A 47-year-old Inglewood, California, man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to 16 months in prison for an email compromise scheme that stole more than $3.3 million from two companies involved in manufacturing ferries and engines for those ferries, announced U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. Leslie Redd III, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud. At the sentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge Ricardo S. Martinez noted the severe impact that the crime had on the victim businesses and their employees, causing employees’ pay to be delayed and cut, and threatening the businesses’ viability. 

In the sentencing memo, prosecutors describe how Redd, forwarded more than $2,000,000 of the money that he had received to China to other co-conspirators – people whose names he did not even know. Judge Martinez expressed particular concern that American citizens would help foreign criminals defraud fellow Americans.

On October 29, 2018, the boat builder paid the invoice for $3,316,730 by wiring the funds as directed by the fraudulent emails. The co-conspirator in Pennsylvania quickly forwarded $3,074,500 to bank accounts controlled by Redd and other co-conspirators. Of the ill-gotten funds, Redd kept $857,350 in accounts he controlled. Investigators were able to seize $420,817 from those accounts.

The case was investigated by the FBI Seattle Office Cyber Task Force.

Redd will be on three years of supervised release following prison. He was ordered to pay $2,802,368.24 in restitution (the amount of the outstanding loss).

The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Friedman and former Assistant United States Attorney Siddharth Velamoor.

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Monroe Co. woman charged with murder in boat club crash that 'took those babies from us'

Monroe — Distraught relatives of two young siblings killed by an alleged drunken driver at a birthday party at a boat club lashed out at the suspect Tuesday in a Monroe County courtroom, accusing her of taking "those babies from us," while the woman's attorney suggested she suffered from a seizure that contributed to Saturday's crash.

Marshella Chidester, 66, showed little emotion as the aunt of the two children who were killed, Lana Phillips, 8, and Zayn Phillips, 4, addressed the court before Chidester's bond was set.

“She chose to drink and those were my grandbabies. She made the choice to get in that car, and she chose to drink and drive, and she took those babies from us,” grandmother Kathy Phillips said.

Chidester, a former commodore of the Swan Boat Club in Berlin Township where the crash took place, was formally charged in Monroe's 1st District Court with two counts of second-degree murder, two counts of operating under the influence of alcohol causing death and four counts of operating under the influence of alcohol causing serious injury. She faces up to life in prison if she is convicted.

At her arraignment, Chidester limped into the courtroom with her right arm in a splint.

In an unusual move during the arraignment, District Judge Christian Horkey allowed relatives of the crash victims to address the court in person and via Zoom before setting bail at $1.5 million for Chidester. Some blared out comments via Zoom.

Bill Colovos, Chidester's attorney, said his client believes she had a seizure at the wheel Saturday and said she does not remember entering the parking lot of the boat club or anything that happened leading up to the crash. He said she was invited to the birthday party by the person hosting it.

"She was meeting her husband at the birthday party at the boat club … and all of a sudden, she said 'I blacked out, I remember nothing,'" Colovos said Tuesday evening.

Colovos said Chidester has a history of epileptic-type seizures in her legs that result in paralysis, including one last fall in which she blacked out. Chidester has since been treated for seizures, Colovos said, and has not had any since she was put on medication last year until Saturday.

Colovos said Chidester was barred by her doctor from driving for six months. The attorney said in court Tuesday that she was put on medication in November, which would have made her ineligible to drive until next month. Colovos told The Detroit News in a follow-up conversation that treatments began Oct. 1, when the original blackout episode occurred.

Colovos didn't specify a name for her condition in court but told The News Tuesday evening that Chidester was treated for neuropathy — a condition in which the peripheral nerves to the feet are damaged, according to the American Podiatric Medical Association. After the diagnosis, Chidester's doctor put her on medication and didn't allow her to drive until the end of March, Colovos said.

The biggest cause of neuropathy is diabetes, according to the APMA. Other causes include alcoholism, arthritis, heredity and advanced age, according to the medical group's website.

Monroe County Prosecutor Jeffrey Yorkey said there was no evidence Chidester had a seizure the day of the crash.

A “very long investigation,” including a breath test, indicated she was significantly over the legal limit of 0.08. He did not say what Chidester's blood alcohol content was but said she admitted to drinking. 

Yorkey requested that Horkey, the judge, set Chidester’s bond at $1.5 million, noting that friends and family told investigators she has a “very severe substance abuse issue.”

Colovos said they do not have the results back from the blood alcohol test yet, and the preliminary breath test Chidester took on the scene is not admissible in court because it's often inaccurate.

Colovos also said earlier Tuesday that Chidester had no record and was retired, living a “peaceful life.”

“In 60 years on this earth, she’s never had any traffic involvement. She’s never had any law enforcement involvement,” Colovos said. “It’s horrible what happened, absolutely horrible … but some things we don’t have control over.”

Someone on the Zoom feed interjected as the attorney was speaking in court and said, “She shouldn’t have been drinking.”

Raquel Smouthers, Lana and Zayn's aunt, also said Tuesday that even if Chidester was on medication or had medical issues, she should not have been driving.

“Nobody should ever have to go to a birthday party thinking they’re going to die,” Smouthers said.

She added that the two deceased children couldn't have an open-casket funeral because of the injuries they suffered.

"I cannot close my eyes at night without seeing them babies and what they look like," Smouthers said between sobs.

Lana and Zayn's older brother and mother were in critical condition after the crash, according to a GoFundMe set up by the children's aunt, Diane Harrington. Their mother, Mariah Dodds, filed a lawsuit Monday against Chidester and the bar police said she was drinking at before the crash.

Chidester crashed into the Swan Boat Club in the 6000 block of Brancheau in Berlin Township at about 3 p.m. Saturday, according to the Monroe County Sheriff's Office. Her vehicle landed 25 feet into the building, Monroe County Sheriff Troy Goodnough said.

“The scene was described by first responders as extremely chaotic, with high levels of emotions of those directly involved and those who witnessed this horrific incident,” Goodnough said at a Saturday night press conference.

The party was being held for a 3-year-old at the club, said Detroit attorney Jon Markos, who is representing Dodds.

The boat club was closed Sunday, according to its website and Facebook page, and is usually closed Monday and Tuesday.

"Our deepest sympathy goes out to this family and everyone else that was involved," said the boat club's post. "That family has asked us to post their go fund me to help with the funeral arrangements for the two children."

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Community reels from birthday party tragedy at boat club that left 2 kids dead

A mourner quietly placed a bouquet of cellophane-wrapped flowers on a folding chair Sunday morning outside the Swan Boat Club in Monroe County's Berlin Township, where just the day before police say chaos unfolded when a suspected drunken driver slammed her SUV through a wall.

Inside the building, a young child’s birthday party had been taking place.

In an instant, two children — a brother and sister, ages 5 and 8 — were dead and about a dozen other people, including several other children, were critically injured. Among those hospitalized Sunday were the mother of the two dead children and their older brother.

The 66-year-old woman who was driving the SUV is being held in the Monroe County Jail for suspicion of driving while intoxicated causing death, a 15-year felony. Police said there could be additional charges as the investigation continues.

"It’s so sad," said Paul Schmidt, 46, who lives next to the club and witnessed the aftermath of the crash. Speaking to a reporter Sunday morning, he noted that the scene was so horrific that even "the cop was throwing up in the yard."

A GoFundMe fundraising account , linked at the club's website , was set up to defray funeral and burial expenses for the children, identified in the account only by their first names as 5-year-old "Zayn" and 8-year-old "Lana" and to help their mother, "Mariah," and older brother, "Jayden," with medical expenses.  

Within hours, tens of thousands of dollars had been raised. By late Sunday evening, donations topped $100,000.

The club — at 6332 Brancheau Road, about 30 minutes southwest of Detroit — was closed Sunday, the result, the private club said on Facebook, of the "terrible accident" with many injuries and much damage.

Schmidt — who had recorded on cell phone videos the SUV driving past his home and the 3 p.m. crash ― said some of the footage was too graphic to share with the public. He estimated the driver, who he said lives near the club, appeared be going 40 mph or more.

The more graphic recordings, which he played for the Free Press, showed a room set up for a party, decorated with colorful banners and balloons. Some of the youngsters ― who, Schmidt said ― appeared to have been lining up for cake.

The crash left a large hole in the wall and the sound of the impact could be heard several houses down the gravel road. It was followed by the screams of children, parents and grandparents. The adults, in a panic, scooped up crying toddlers, trying to scurry to safety.

The two siblings were pronounced dead at the scene, police said. The other victims were rushed by ambulances and two medical helicopters for treatment at area hospitals.

Arraignment possible Monday

By Sunday, the hole in the wall, where the SUV smashed through, had been boarded up, but the yellow police caution tape, twisted metal siding, debris and discarded medical supplies, like blue latex gloves and bandages, were strewn about in the dirt.

A bounce house, which had been set up for the party, had been deflated.

The name of the SUV driver was not released. She was taken to the Monroe County Jail, where, authorities said, she is expected to be held until she can be arraigned.

Monroe County Sheriff’s deputies, one of whom was still investigating the scene Sunday, told the Free Press the name of the suspect or more details of the crash, such as her blood alcohol level, would not be released until after an arraignment, which was unlikely until Monday.

At a late Saturday night press conference, Monroe County Sheriff Troy Goodnough’s voice quavered as he spoke to reporters, appearing to be fighting back tears as he read a statement. The vehicle, he said, slammed into the north wall, moving fast enough to go about 25 feet inside the building until it stopped.

It was, the sheriff said, as he described the scene that first responders saw, "extremely chaotic and with high level of emotions of those directly involved and those who witnessed this horrific incident." At least 15 people, including adults, were injured.

The sheriff said that nine people, three of them children, were driven by ambulances and airlifted by two medical helicopters to area hospitals with life-threatening injuries. Several other less seriously injured people, the sheriff added, were rushed away by nonemergency vehicles.

Multiple agencies from three counties scrambled to reach the scene and try to provide aid.

Neighbors near the boat club said that before slamming into the birthday celebration, it appeared that the SUV also had hit — or backed into — a small pine tree and a Ford F-150 pickup, damaging the front end, and crashing into it with such force it pushed it back at least a dozen feet, causing it to knock over a wooden fence.

Ed Wedderski, 72, said he and his son, who owns the silver pickup, heard the SUV hit the truck — and then crash through the wall.

Wedderski said he knows the suspect, who is a neighbor and has lived in the area for decades. He said he never had problems with her, calling her "the nicest person," who generally drove slowly.

A drink at Verna's Tavern

Before the suspect apparently crashed into the pickup and club, the sheriff had said Saturday, it's believed she had been at a Newport watering hole, Verna’s Tavern, which deputies briefly closed as part of the crash investigation.

"We went in, we shut the business down," Goodnough said Saturday, when pressed whether the tavern would be facing police scrutiny. "We are in the process of executing a search warrant for information as to the business conducted at that day."

Sunday, the tavern had reopened.

When asked by the Free Press what happened, workers at Verna's on Sunday declined to comment.

Angie Huffman — who said in an email to the Free Press that her mother owns the establishment, and Verna was her great-grandma — confirmed the police suspect was at the eatery at 11 a.m., had a glass of wine and a bowl of soup, adding that she's confident the investigation will show the restaurant is "not at fault."

"She left before noon and was completely sober," Huffman said of the suspect. "We understand the need for an investigation and we are cooperating with the police. We offered to give them anything they needed. The sheriff wanted a search warrant."

Huffman added: "Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone involved. Our town will never be the same."

In a sad twist, the area where the tragedy unfolded has long been a place to enjoy life.

The boat club, which sits in the shadow of the DTE Fermi II nuclear plant was started in the 1940s as a place for boating enthusiasts on Swan Creek to meet to play cards, have a beer and kickback, mostly during the hot summer months, has faced its share good and bad times over the years. It is just off Lake Erie.

The club, in its early years thrived, its website suggested.

The club history boasted of hosting "great regattas," "snow mobile races" and "famous chicken dinners," which it still offers. At one time it’s membership even included Michigan’s governor, the late G. Mennen (Soapy) Williams.

In the '70s, the club website said, its membership dropped to less than 50 members.

But since then, the club — which now also offers dockage for more than 125 member boats up to 40 feet long — said its numbers were rebounding and was "sound and prosperous with a card-carrying membership of over 250."

Neighbors, like Schmidt, said he doesn’t know what will happen to the club now.

A community grieves

Through much of Sunday afternoon, many in the Monroe County communities affected by the tragedy were flyspecking the news for more clues to how the deadly crash happened and grieving the loss of the young children.

At the Burger King in Newport, about a couple of miles from the tavern where the suspect may have been, employees shared details with each other about what they knew about the incident — and traded other stories about terrible wrecks.

Alana Laughery, 31, said she was shocked.

"It’s absolutely tragic," she said of the crash, adding that she has a 5-year-old son. "As the day goes on you hear more and more and it just gets worse and worse as more people are affected by this. Even the kids who weren’t physically injured will have to live with these memories of this traumatic event."

She said that she just couldn’t comprehend how the kids and parents must feel.

"I can’t imagine this happening," she said. "I can’t imagine going out for a day to celebrate and something out of your control happens. You think you are in a safe place, surrounded by walls — and the next thing you know, you’re underneath a vehicle."

She said that she could not imagine the horror that families had to go through.

"Did she sit there?" Laughery asked herself, trying to picture the driver after she went through the wall. "Did she move the car? Did anyone attempt to move the car? How did the victims get out? How long were they there? How horrific!"

And, Laughery also asked: "How can we keep this from happening again?"

Contact Frank Witsil: 313-222-5022 or [email protected].

Crime and Public Safety | Fire damages historic Oceanside pier

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Crime and Public Safety

By Teri Figueroa, Phil Diehl and Karen Kucher

Fire tore through a vacant restaurant at the end of the Oceanside Municipal Pier Thursday afternoon, causing “significant damage” and continuing to smolder and burn long after crews had the fire under control.

Lifeguards spotted the fire just after 3 p.m. at the building that had once housed Ruby’s Diner. Images shared on social media showed a large black plume of smoke rising above the end of the iconic pier, creating a spectacle for anyone in the area.

Three hours later, crews had stopped the fire’s forward progress, but it was still burning, primarily underneath the pier, Oceanside Fire Department Chief David Parsons said.

No injuries were reported, and the employees from the nearby bait shop and Brine Box restaurant were all accounted for.

Most of the damage appears to be contained to the “hammerhead” shape at the end of the pier and stretching about 15 feet down the walkway toward the shore, the fire chief said.

Parsons said the fire caused “significant damage” to the shuttered diner, the neighboring Brine Box, the deck of the hammerhead and the structural support underneath it.

Parsons said the fire was “an all-hands-on-deck” situation. The response included 144 firefighters, 30 lifeguards and 32 police officers. A construction company on-site to dredge the harbor also sent a boat to help.

“We have thrown a lot of resources at this,” Parsons said. “The pier is a very special place for us.”

At one point, he said, officials feared the whole pier could be lost to fire, and he credited the large response from other agencies for helping save it.

A helicopter drops water as fire crews fight a fire burning at the end of the Oceanside Municipal Pier in Oceanside on Thursday, April 25, 2024.

The Oceanside Pier continues to burn Friday morning after a fire which started at the end of the pier burned the former Ruby’s Diner and The Brine Box. Photo by John Gastaldo for the Union-Tribune

A group of firefighters work to put out a fire burning at the end of the Oceanside Municipal Pier in Oceanside on Thursday, April 25, 2024.

Firefighters battle a fire on a landmark wooden pier in Oceanside, Calif., Thursday, April 25, 2024. The stubborn fire at the end of a landmark wooden pier on the Southern California coast was contained early Friday, authorities said. (Patrick Trolan/Media Baller, via AP)

The crew of a U.S. Coast Guard boat sprays water as firefighters fight a fire burning at the end of the Oceanside Municipal Pier in Oceanside on Thursday, April 25, 2024.

People watch as fire crews fight a fire burning at the end of the Oceanside Municipal Pier in Oceanside on Thursday, April 25, 2024.

Firefighters walk toward where a fire is burning at the end of the Oceanside Municipal Pier in Oceanside on Thursday, April 25, 2024.

Oceanside firefighters were on the scene within minutes, soon followed by crews from Vista, Carlsbad and several other agencies. San Diego Gas & Electric and Sheriff’s Department helicopters dropped water from above, and the Coast Guard sent a cutter to douse with water from underneath. On the ground, fire crews pulled hoses down the 1,954-foot-long pier.

The chief told reporters at a 7 p.m. news briefing that although the fire was still burning, officials believe they have it under control. Crews will stay at the scene through the night.

Power to the pier is out, so crews will place warning lights along the edges to alert boaters so they don’t run into it. Officials also closed a small section of the beach south of the pier for safety reasons, because debris was washing up on shore.

Parsons said officials have asked experts at the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for help determining what started the fire.

“We do not know where the fire started,” said Jessica Waite, who operates the Brine Box, the fresh fish shack that was badly damaged. “What I hear is it was underneath the pier.”

She said the two or three Brine Box employees working at the time were able to get away safely when the fire broke out.

“It was really scary for our team and for our chef,” she said. “I do know that everybody is safe.”

About 90 minutes after the fire was reported, white smoke began to replace the black smoke — but it remained so thick that the end of the pier was obscured from view. Parsons said onshore winds pushed smoke from the end of the pier toward the shore.

The sight of smoke drew longtime residents Richard and Karen Sonayda from their home about a mile from the pier.

“I’m devastated right now,” Richard Sonayda said. “I surfed and fished on the pier when I was a little boy.”

“This is our home,” Karen Sonayda added.

One user on X, formerly called Twitter, recalled taking trips to Oceanside to eat at the 1950s-style diner. “I remember how it would rock and sway with the waves,” the user wrote. “Totally trippy experience but cool.”

Oceanside has had a pier along the shoreline since 1888. The one there now is the sixth version, built in 1986 to replace one destroyed by storms.

“This is a very, very critical pier for us,” Oceanside Mayor Esther Sanchez said at a press briefing. “It’s iconic for Oceanside.”

She said this was the first fire of this size to hit the pier.

The fire comes with Memorial Day — seen as the unofficial start of summer — about a month away, and the pier is a star attraction for Oceanside. Parsons said it’s not clear when it will reopen to the public because it will need to be evaluated by a structural engineer.

Last year, the city wrapped up a $5.6 million project to install new lines on the pier for potable water, wastewater, electrical and communications.

The concrete-and-steel access ramp known as the Pier View Way Bridge has been there since 1927. There are plans in the works to replace the bridge and the lifeguard headquarters underneath the pier, but that $40 million project is several years off.

The city is also planning to renovate or replace other aging facilities near the pier, including the Junior Seau Beach community center, the amphitheater and the bandshell.

For 25 years, Ruby’s Diner sat at the end of the pier, but it was reduced to takeout only when the pandemic hit in March 2020. It permanently closed in March 2021. It’s not clear how badly it was damaged by Thursday’s fire. About eight years ago,  fire destroyed a long vacant Ruby’s Diner at the end of the Seal Beach Pier in Orange County.

Oceanside’s mayor said the city will want to repair the pier as soon as possible. Offers for assistance have already come in from U.S. Rep. Mike Levin and state Sen. Catherine Blakespear, both of whom represent the area.

Staff writer Lyndsay Winkley contributed to this report.

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Driver in suspected DUI crash that killed 2 children may have left Monroe County tavern earlier

B ERLIN TWP. — Police investigated and a community mourned Sunday, the morning after a car crashed into a boat club building where a birthday party was being held, killing two young siblings — ages 5 and 8 — and injuring more than a dozen other people.

A 66-year-old woman, whose name was not released, was driving the vehicle that crashed and was arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated causing death, a 15-year felony, and taken to the Monroe County Jail, authorities said. More criminal charges are expected, police said.

In addition, authorities said Verna’s Tavern in Newport, where the driver of the car may have been just before the crash, had been shut down and was under investigation. The bar was back in operation late Sunday morning when a Free Press reporter and a photographer stopped by.

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The Swan Boat Club — where the party was being held at 6332 Brancheau Road, about 30 minutes southwest of Detroit — posted on Facebook it would be closed Sunday, the result of the "terrible accident" with many injuries and much damage.

Monroe County Sheriff Troy Goodnough’s voice quivered as he spoke to news media.

He appeared to hold back tears as he read a statement that described the scene after the car went through a wall at about 3 p.m. Saturday. It was, he said, "extremely chaotic and with high level of emotions of those directly involved and those who witnessed this horrific incident."

Goodnough said 15 people, including adults, were injured.

The vehicle, he said, slammed into the north wall, moving fast enough to go about 25 feet into the building until it stopped. A doorbell cam video posted online shows what appears to be an SUV speeding toward the boat club, go out of view blocked by a stand of trees, and then a cloud of dust suddenly coming from offscreen. People can then be seen rushing out of the building.

Multiple agencies scrambled to reach the scene and try to provide aid.

During the news conference, those listening let out an audible ― and heartbreaking — gasp as the sheriff identified the dead children as brother and sister. The 5-year-old boy and his 8-year-old sister never had a chance to even get medical treatment. First responders pronounced them dead at the scene.

A GoFundMe fundraiser for the family, linked on the boat club's website , says the children's mother and older brother were also injured and remain hospitalized in critical condition.

The sheriff said that nine people, three of them children, were driven by ambulances and airlifted by two medical helicopters to area hospitals. As of late Saturday, they were facing serious, life-threatening injuries. Several other people, the sheriff added, were rushed away by nonemergency vehicles.

At the end of the news conference, the sheriff, in response to a reporter’s question, confirmed that the suspect may have been at Verna’s Tavern in Newport.

"We went in, we shut the business down," Goodnough added when pressed whether the tavern would be facing police scrutiny. "We are in the process of executing a search warrant for information as to the business conducted at that day."

A sign for the eatery describes it as "Home of the ½-pound Verna Burger" and a place for "good times & great friends since 1938."

After the crash, Goodnough said, investigators were working at the scene to process evidence, identify victims, interview witnesses and reunite family members separated in the sudden chaos of the deadly and tragic crash.

In a sad twist, the area where the tragedy unfolded has long been a place to enjoy life.

The boat club, which was started in the 1940s as a place for boating enthusiasts on Swan Creek to meet to play cards, have a beer and kickback, mostly during the hot summer months, has faced its share good and bad times over the years. It is just off Lake Erie.

The club, in its early years thrived, its website suggested .

The club history boasted of hosting "great regattas," "snow mobile races" and "famous chicken dinners," which it still offers. At one time, the club noted, its membership included Michigan’s Gov. G. Mennen (Soapy) Williams.

In the '70s, the website said its membership dropped to less than 50 members. But since then, the club — which now also offers dockage for more than 125 member boats up to 40 feet long — said its numbers have rebounded and was “sound and prosperous with a card-carrying membership of over 250!"

Names of the crash victims were not released.

Contact Frank Witsil: 313-222-5022 or [email protected].

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Driver in suspected DUI crash that killed 2 children may have left Monroe County tavern earlier

2 children dead, 15 people injured after vehicle crashes into building holding child's birthday party

A 66-year-old suspect was arrested at the scene, police said.

Two children are dead and 15 people were injured after a woman drove her car into a child's birthday party, Sheriff Troy Goodnough said in a press conference Saturday evening.

The two children who were pronounced dead at the scene were siblings, an 8-year-old girl and a 5-year-old boy, according to police.

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Around 3 p.m., a woman drove a vehicle through a wall of the Swan Boat Club in Monroe County, Michigan, coming to a stop 25 feet inside, authorities said.

First responders rendered aid to 15 victims at the scene. Nine were transported to local hospitals – either by ambulance or helicopter – with serious life-threatening injuries. Of the nine transported, three were children, and six were adults. Others at the scene were transported by private vehicle to hospitals, the sheriff said.

The 66-year-old suspect was arrested at the scene for suspicion of operating a vehicle while intoxicated, causing death and is currently being held at Monroe County Jail, according to Goodnough.

First responders described the scene as "extremely chaotic," according to Sheriff Goodnough.

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The number of people inside the party is still under investigation.

The Swan Boat Club is located on Lake Erie, about 30 miles south of Detroit.

"Please keep everyone involved in your thoughts and prayers," the facility said in a statement on social media. "We thank everyone for their concern and prayers."

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