Azzura Marine earns acclaim for Necker Belle refit

by AIMEX on 25 May 2010 AIMEX member, Azzura Marine is receiving the attention and accolades to show they are among the best in the world.

Azzura recently completed a total refit including new interior of Richard Branson’s superyacht Necker Belle. At the fifth edition of the prestigious World Superyacht Awards recognizing the most outstanding superyachts delivered in 2009, Necker Belle was commended for its refit. The Awards were held on Saturday 22nd May at Londons Guildhall.

Necker Belle underwent a refit by the Azzura Shipyard in Australia, which transformed her from the mundane into a special craft. This very comprehensive refit addressed structural issues and, among many improvements too numerous to mention individually, strengthened the vessel, upgraded her steering to a new hydraulic system and repositioned the helm stations, re-rigged her with a carbon mast and re-engineered the structure of the mast base.

At the same time the vessel's interior was treated to a totally new electrical system and wiring, a complete overhaul of the engine room, and a completely new scheme of interior decoration in which all surface materials were replaced or refurbished to provide a relaxed beach house atmosphere.

Thanks to this thorough refit, which addressed the many issues affecting the original craft, this attractive vessel now has a new lease of life.

'This is a great result for the Australian Marine Industry as well as Azzura Marine' said Azzura Marine Managing Director, David McQueen.

The World Superyacht Awards consisted of 14 Awards Categories. The panel of judges was made up of superyacht owners and highly respected industry professionals. The judging was chaired by Roger Lean-Vercoe, editor of The Superyachts.

For further details please contact David McQueen, Managing Director, Azzura Marine, dmcqueen@azzuramarine.com or phone 61 7 5573 6055.