the boat works expansion
All images The Boat Works

50% increase in The Boat Works shed and hardstand space

24 November 2023 • by Holly Margerrison

Australian shipyard The Boat Works has announced it is adding more sheds, hardstands and berths to meet the demands of boat maintenance and refit.

The expansion will see the addition of 50 per cent more sheds and hardstands, as well as the marina expansion to welcome more in-water service berths. The yard hopes the dedicated workspace will create a more efficient workflow for contractors and deliveries, as well as helping to protect materials and supplies from the weather.

Just four years after opening, the Northern Superyacht yard will soon welcome brand new "super-sized sheds" for optimised controlled working environments.

The Boat Works’ owner, Tony Longhurst, said: “The development in major marine infrastructure marks a substantial step forward in our commitment to providing top-notch services to our valued clients."

Alanna Davies, Tony Longhurst, Charmaine Webb and Michelle Robinson of The Boat Works

The additions include 10 new refit sheds, 18 metres in height and 42 metres in length, offering all-weather protection, where trades can work efficiently year-round. This adds to the 70 sheds on-site already operating at capacity and will ensure the progress of projects and meeting deadlines. The first of the 18-metre sheds is open and the other nine are to be ready for visiting vessels early in 2024.

“We are proud to provide the most sheds for any boat yard in the Southern Hemisphere,” added Longhurst. “The benefits of undertaking work in sheds cannot be overstated – they provide owners with privacy and peace of mind knowing their vessel is sheltered from the harsh sun and elements. It also allows trades and other marine professionals to ensure a better-quality outcome and control over all aspects of the project.”

To further streamline operations, The Boat Works has also added new hardstand space for vessels up to 50 metres, equipped with full power and recycled water, giving customers more choice for their yacht maintenance and refit projects in designated “task-specific zones”.

“With these new work allocations, we anticipate a smoother workflow allowing us to meet and exceed the expectations of our clients in terms of project delivery and quality,” said General Manager, Shane Subichin.

Stage five also includes a new Boat Building shed, extra car parking, new offices and professional business suites known as “The Dock 2”, which will overlook the marina.

“We are laying foundations for The Dock 2,” commented Longhurst. “The momentum is staggering, we are confident that these enhancements will not only elevate our capabilities but also contribute to the success of our onsite skilled marine trades and service capabilities and performance. As we embark on this exciting chapter, we look forward to welcoming you to the new section of the Northern Superyacht Yard.”