In an industry continually inspired by the newest launches, there is something particularly compelling about seeing an established yacht thoughtfully reimagined.
A beautifully executed refit can preserve the character, pedigree and craftsmanship that first made a yacht exceptional, while introducing the comfort, technology and amenities expected by todayâs charter guests. Rather than erasing the past, the finest projects build upon it, allowing a much-loved yacht to begin an entirely new chapter.
This is the true beauty of a refit, recognising what is already special and carefully considering how it can be made even better.
More Than a MakeoverÂ
The word ârefitâ can describe anything from a light interior refresh to an extensive structural and technical transformation. At its most ambitious, a refit reaches far beyond new furnishings, updated fabrics or a fresh coat of paint.
Guest spaces may be completely redesigned, decks extended and previously under-used areas transformed into inviting places to relax, dine or connect with the sea. Behind the scenes, engineering, navigation, safety and entertainment systems can also be upgraded, often significantly improving a yachtâs performance and capability.
The result should not simply be a yacht that looks newer. A successful refit should change how the yacht feels and how guests experience their time on board.
The Importance of Refit Knowledge at Yomira
A key part of our role at Yomira is to look beyond a yachtâs age and consider how thoughtfully it has been maintained, upgraded and reimagined over time.
We keep a close eye on yachts that have undergone significant refits and benefited from substantial investment from their owners, as these projects can transform not only how a yacht looks, but how it feels and performs for our clients. This is one of the main reasons we attend boat shows, to inspect yachts in person, remain closely informed about developments across the charter fleet and see first-hand how owners have invested wisely and diligently in the complexities of a refit. This allows us to identify yachts that offer an exceptional finished product, a memorable charter experience and, in many cases, excellent value for money.
An exceptional refit can bring an established yacht firmly back to the forefront of our minds. When the work has been carefully considered and makes a meaningful difference to the experience on board, the yacht may become exactly the kind of option we would be excited to propose to prospective clients.
Five Remarkable Refit Stories
SOLACE 57m Feadship
The transformation of SOLACE is a striking example of an established yacht being prepared for a new era.
Originally delivered in 2005 as TWIZZLE, the yacht was commissioned by experienced yacht owners Michael and Bettina Bradfield, whose knowledge of sailing and life at sea helped shape the yacht from the outset. Their input extended beyond the overall appearance, resulting in a yacht designed around the practical demands of extended global cruising.
Almost two decades later, under new ownership, TWIZZLE entered Pendennis shipyard and emerged as SOLACE following an extensive ten-month transformation. The project went far beyond a change of name or cosmetic refresh. Vickers Studio completely reimagined the interior, while a new bridge-deck cabin and 1.5m stern extension significantly altered the yacht’s profile. A reconfigured lazarette and swim platform created a generous beach club set-up, completed with a glass-fronted sauna, bringing the yacht in line with the growing emphasis on wellness within todayâs superyacht market.
Behind the visible changes, SOLACE also underwent a comprehensive technical overhaul designed to build on the original ownerâs brief for long-range cruising. New technology, enhanced safety systems and an additional cabin for guides, pilots or specialist personnel expanded the yachtâs operational capability. Now available for charter in Norway and across the Arctic, SOLACE offers guests the opportunity to explore remote coastlines and dramatic polar landscapes, continuing the legacy and philosophy for what the yacht was originally built for.
The transformation earned SOLACE the Refitted Yachts award at the 2026 World Superyacht Awards.
Visit our page Your time for Adventure & Exploration for more information about how Yomira can create a bespoke charter shaped around discovery. On board purposefully equipped yachts such as SOLACE, guests can explore some of the worldâs most remote coastlines and lesser-known destinations with the capability, comfort and specialist support required for a truly memorable superyacht charter.
Originally delivered by Feadship in 1979 as DARIA, the yacht was regarded as highly advanced for its time. Built with the precision and technical quality associated with Feadship, the original design incorporated forward-thinking systems, including the first satellite communications installation aboard a Feadship. This emphasis on innovation created a robust and adaptable platform that could support substantial future investment.
In 2007, under the name ELISABETH F, the yacht entered the shipyard for an extensive ten-month transformation involving major structural, technical and interior work. The project went far beyond a superficial update. A five-metre transom extension increased the overall length to 53 metres, reshaping the aft profile while creating additional deck and exterior dining space. The boat-deck and sundeck bulwarks were also restyled to complement the yachtâs new proportions.
Continued investment has since ensured that MIRAGE remains relevant within the modern charter market. Recent work has included a new state-of-the-art bridge and a complete exterior repaint. Today, the yacht offers generous deck spaces, a large mosaic spa pool and a dedicated workout area. These features have transformed the original Feadship into a highly versatile charter platform while preserving the quality of construction that made such an ambitious rebuild possible.
MARALA 58m Camper & Nicholsons
Built by Camper & Nicholsons in 1931, MARALA is one of relatively few surviving yachts from the period. Having passed through an unusually small number of owners, much of the original character, basic layout and machinery remained intact. Despite significant alterations made throughout the yachtâs life, including conversion for naval service during the Second World War. Over the decades, MARALA hosted a remarkable range of guests, including Salvador DalĂ, Frank Sinatra and members of international royalty, leaving the yacht with a rich and layered history.
When MARALA came onto the market in 2016 for the first time in more than 50 years, the new owner recognised the rare opportunity to become the custodian of an important Camper & Nicholsons yacht. The restoration brief was not to conceal the yachtâs age or create the appearance of a modern new build, but to protect the original spirit while addressing the structural and technical work required for the future.
Having entered an extensive restoration programme lasting more than two and a half years. Investigation of the hull and superstructure revealed that significant work was required, leading to the renewal of more than 100 tonnes of steel. The hull was deliberately left unfaired to retain an authentic appearance consistent with the yachtâs heritage, while later additions to the profile were removed to restore the exterior lines closer to the original 1930s design.
The transformation also reconsidered how the exterior spaces could be used. The hard-topped shelter and tender storage on the ownerâs aft deck were removed, making way for a new outdoor entertainment area with a cinema and Jacuzzi. At the same time, the bulwarks and side-deck structures added during the 1950s and 1960s were taken away, allowing the yachtâs original proportions to become more visible once again.
The interior was approached with the same sensitivity. Muza Lab began by studying the original specification and blueprints held by the National Maritime Museum, using MARALAâs history to guide the design. As much original timber as possible was preserved, including the aged floorboards in the dining area and saloon, while the guest cabins were developed as a journey through different periods of the yachtâs life. Waxed linen panels reference the 1930s, military-inspired details recall wartime service and Savoy blue accents pay tribute to a former owner.
Completed in 2022, the restoration did not attempt to make MARALA look new. Instead, it revealed the value of what was already there. The result is an authentic classic yacht that retains the character, craftsmanship and stories of the original build while offering the reliability, comfort and functionality expected by modern charter guests.
For those drawn to culture, heritage and exceptional cuisine, Yomira can create a charter shaped around the character of each destination. On board yachts such as MARALA, the experience can be as much about stepping into the history and atmosphere of a place as it is about time spent at sea, with carefully curated itineraries that bring together iconic ports, local traditions and memorable dining experiences. Through Your Time for Culture & Cuisine, guests can discover how Yomira creates a superyacht charter experience shaped around their interests, allowing each journey to feel both personal and closely connected to the places visited.
TRAMONTO offers a different perspective on the meaning of a refit. Unlike the extensive transformations undertaken aboard SOLACE, MIRAGE and MARALA, the work completed ahead of the 2026 charter season was a focused programme intended to maintain the standard of a relatively young and heavily guest-facing yacht.
Originally delivered in 2020 the yacht was already well suited to charter, with a highly customised interior and the generous outdoor spaces associated with the Mediterraneo 116 platform. The decision was therefore not to alter the layout or redesign the yacht, but to invest in the areas most susceptible to visible wear through regular use.
New carpets were installed throughout, while the interior and exterior soft furnishings were renewed. Although less dramatic than structural alterations, these are substantial elements within the overall presentation of a yacht. Carpets, upholstery and outdoor fabrics occupy large visual areas and are used continuously by guests, meaning signs of age can quickly affect how an otherwise modern yacht feels. Replacing them allowed the established design to be retained while restoring a cleaner and more consistent appearance throughout the guest spaces.
The ownerâs investment also extended to the charter operation with the addition of a new BWA GTO 27 chase tender. This strengthened the yachtâs ability to support days away from the main vessel, whether transferring guests ashore or reaching beaches, anchorages and restaurants that may be less accessible to TRAMONTO itself.
The refurbishment did not seek to reinvent the yacht. Instead, it addressed the details most likely to influence a guestâs first impression and everyday experience on board.
Find Your Next Superyacht to Charter
Our collection includes many exceptional yachts that have undergone significant refits, each offering a revived experience for todayâs charter guests. From sensitively restored classics to contemporary yachts enhanced through thoughtful investment, these are examples of how a successful refit can bring an established yacht firmly back into focus.
Discover yachts that have been carefully selected by the Yomira team, or contact us to discuss the kind of charter experience you are looking for. We would be delighted to recommend the yachts that best suit your plans and introduce you to options that may not be immediately defined by age, but by the quality of the experience they offer.