VABO Composites supports every aspect of carefree refit
VABO Composites in the Netherlands has successfully designed, constructed and installed the roof for a winter garden onboard a 76-metre superyacht. Part of an extensive refit at a yard in southern Europe, this sophisticated project illustrates VABO’s capacity to support clients with premium-quality composite superstructure elements from first conception to final completion.
The composite roof was one of the key pieces required by the refit yard in order to fulfil their client’s wish to create an all-weather outdoor area. This winter garden is intended to offer every conceivable comfort and VABO Composites was brought in to support the designer from the beginning of the project by determining the right construction methods.
A smooth process
“This ability to help shape developments at this critical pre-engineering stage helped ensure everything was aligned from the outset,” explains Jeroen van Deutekom, sales manager at VABO. “We were also responsible for the FEM analysis and strength calculations as well as all activities related to class certification. The roof itself was built at state-of-the-art facility in Emmeloord and we also worked together with co-suppliers on other elements such as the windbreaker.”
With the construction work completed, VABO teamed up with its regular partner for complex deliveries, Van Wieren Special Transport, to take care of the long journey to a harbour in the south of Europe. “Upon arrival our installation experts attached both the roof and the windbreaker to the aluminium superstructure without any welding,” continues Van Deutekom. “The yacht’s owners are very pleased with the result."
Specialist expertise
This successful project reinforces how VABO Composites offers clients a lightning-fast and carefree refit service. Van Deutekom: “Our specialism is to support yards, owners and/or crew members with complex projects by managing every aspect, including Class. We are used to cooperating with designers and other partners in our scope of supply to integrate various elements, and our installation teams are equally at home working in a yard or at a harbour berth. We can even start the engineering and production process while the yacht is still sailing, allowing owners to continue operating their vessel until all products are ready for the actual refit itself."
In addition to the kind of custom pieces developed for this 76-metre yacht, VABO Composites is also renowned for its fire-resistant composite doors and hatches. As the Dutch company continues to grow it is actively seeking new technical staff. Interested parties are invited to contact VABO directly.