What to Look for When Hiring a Boat Builder
Investing in a custom-built boat – be it a recreational catamaran or a rowing skiff – is a big
commitment, which is why you’ll want to choose the best possible boat builder. For anyone
setting out on their first boat building journey and unsure where to turn, look out for the
following traits.
Experience and Specialisation
First things first, boat building is not for amateurs. Whether you are in the market for a
custom racing boat, catamaran or luxury yacht, you’ll want to go with an experienced boat
builder with an impressive portfolio.
Beyond confirming their credentials, inquiring into a boat builder’s area of experience and
preferred materials to work with will give you an indication of whether their style matches
yours. If you want a boat made of timber and fiberglass, don’t hire a boat builder who works
exclusively with aluminium.
Team Work
Building a boat is not a one-person job, so one of the most important qualities to look out
for is a strong team environment. Ask your boat builder about his workshop atmosphere
and even make an appointment to visit so you can observe how the builders work together.
Look out for collaboration, hard work and good communication skills.
A Well Set Up Workshop
You can’t build a 20-foot catamaran in a garage! A professional boat building workshop
requires plenty of space, appropriate tools, strong organisational systems and an eye out for
health and safety.
Balancing Innovation and Tradition
Boat building is a craft with a long history and any boat builder worth his salt will respect
the trade’s tradition. At the same time, we want boat builders of today to embrace modern
technology that will give you superior performance – after all, would the America’s Cup be
in NZ without those cutting-edge cycle grinders?
The best boat builders blend these two traits, using the latest innovations without forgetting
the foundations upon which the boating trade is built.
Passion
Hands down, the most important quality to look out for is passion. A boat builder with
passion will put in the hard work, attention to detail and dedication that goes into creating a
custom boat.
Nic de Mey Yachts has all the qualities needed to build your custom built. Give Nic a call at
0275 595 093.