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ONE OF THE WORLD’S LEADING SUPERYACHT SPECIALISTS WITH A HERITAGE SPANNING NEARLY 40 YEARS, PENDENNIS OPERATES A CUSTOM SUPERYACHT BUILD AND REFIT FACILITY IN FALMOUTH, UK.
Our impressive, state-of-the-art facilities provide the perfect base for the high level of customer service, skills, and project quality we’ve become renowned for, creating a truly memorable, personal and professional refit or custom-build experience.
To date, we’ve built over 30 bespoke projects and completed refit works on a further 350 vessels. Our Falmouth facility is home to 500 highly skilled tradespeople and support staff, with our in-house experts – from CAD teams to exterior outfitters,
joiners, electricians, engineers, fabricators and specialist painters – collaborating to ensure maximum control and accountability at every stage of a project.
At Pendennis, we pride ourselves on the longterm relationships we’ve built with our clients, boasting a dedicated yacht support team which offers a comprehensive, worldwide technical and logistical support network to our fleet.
A GROWING LEGACY
Pendennis Shipyard was founded in 1988 when British entrepreneur and yachtsman, Peter de Savary, recognised an increase in demand for sailing boats, which were mostly being built in Holland at the time. Our first ever contract was to build the 125’ ketch Taramber, quickly followed by a major refit of the 228’ three-masted schooner Adix, which has subsequently returned six times for maintenance works.
From humble beginnings, Pendennis has grown into a world-renowned name in the superyacht industry, with much of our success attributed to our team of specialist craftspeople – all of whom are dedicated to servicing our superyacht fleet.
In 2011, Pendennis expanded into Europe with the addition of the Palma Technical Refit Office in Mallorca, providing our first international extension to the company's facilities and services. This venture proved so successful that it forged the way for us to seek a more permanent foothold within the Mediterranean. This vision was realised in 2018, when we secured a majority share hold in Vilanova Grand Marina, now successfully operating as Pendennis Vilanova.
Our focus on expansion is not only through acquisition, but also through investment in both people and infrastructure. In early 2013, we began the first of a substantial two-phase expansion of the Falmouth facility. Phase one included the replacement of the previous singular construction hall with two 90m halls alongside a further 45m double-width hall. Phase two began in 2015 with the addition of an 800t travel hoist, and the construction of our 7,564m² enclosed non-tidal wet basin, allowing yachts up to 100m LOA to be accommodated afloat.
All of this history, growth and development has resulted in a diverse and rich heritage that spans almost 40 years.
1998
Apprenticeship scheme begins
2004
Opening of our refit complex, including two 75m dry docks
1988
2015
Substantial facility expansion project completed: including two new 90m construction halls and non-tidal wet basin
1991
2021
Pendennis adds residential outfitting to its portfolio: Norfolk Interiors
2025
Launch of our first zero emissions vessel
First refit launched: SY Adix
Pendennis Shipyard is founded 1999
First motor yacht launched: MY Ilona
2010
Pendennis acquires Devonport Yachts and rebrands to Pendennis Plus, our 60m+ division
2019
Opening of our Technical Service Centre in Vilanova, near Barcelona
2024
Majority interest in Cockwells Modern & Classic Boatbuilding
YOUR IN-HOUSE SUPPORT TEAM
From computer-aided design teams to exterior outfitters and specialist joiners, Pendennis offers the full range of specialist superyacht trades inhouse. Over the years, we've brought together individuals who have a wealth of experience in the superyacht arena – from our board of directors and project managers to support staff and tradespeople.
At Pendennis, we believe in family and growing the business from within. We know how important it is to have a passionate, dynamic team in place. We are very proud of our award-winning apprenticeship scheme, which, for almost 30 years, has trained over 375 young men and women in boat industry jobs. Through these apprenticeships, we’re able to continually develop our workforce, maintaining the world-class standards that we uphold across every custom build or refit. We ensure that all of our apprentices train alongside our time-served tradesmen on live projects and that our traditional skills are preserved for future generations.
INDUSTRYLEADING FACILITIES IN FALMOUTH
Throughout Pendennis’ history, we have been committed to improving our facilities in Falmouth. Most recently, we have undertaken a significant programme of development on site, including the creation of our non-tidal wet basin, new 90m and 45m construction halls and the upgrade to our 800t travel hoist. This evolution has enabled us to haul out larger yachts and provide pre- and post-project in-water services right in the heart of the shipyard, which equates to efficiency and convenience for our clients.
Facility Key Features:
2 x 75m fully enclosed Dry Docks (or one 150m x 24m)
2 x 90m Construction Halls (1,800m²)
1 x 45m Construction Hall (1,200m²)
7,564m² Enclosed non-tidal Wet Basin up to 100m Alongside berthing for boats
800 tonne Travel Hoist
1400m² Refit Complex (housing paint, joinery and engineering workshops, and project management offices)
80m Mast Paint Booth
200m² Finishing Workshop
3000m² General Stores and Crew Storage
420m² Hospitality Suite
Crew Facilities: Training Centre, Gym and Offices
Hard standing area for external works
Private On-site Helicopter Pad Digital Manufacturing Centre
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REFIT
The flexibility that the Pendennis facilities offer, combined with our in-house specialist teams, mean that we are able to provide a one-stop solution for clients looking to conduct refit work on their yachts. Whether this is a couple of months’ short emergency or routine maintenance, or a more extensive yearlong, class-focused refit, survey and extensive rebuild; or even remodelling to improve the structure or internal layout, our full-service shipyard is capable of welcoming yachts of up to 100m for refit works. Pendennis’ project and trade managers work alongside the Owner’s team to control deadlines and budgets throughout. The quality of our work stands the test of time, with a high percentage
of repeat visits for yachts requiring refit works, taking advantage of our highly skilled in-house tradespeople, global network and impressively modern, accessible facilities.
Breathing new life into vessels has become a hallmark of Pendennis, all the way from the remodelling and extension of a yacht’s outdoor entertainment space, to the full reconfiguration of the interior layout to allow for an Owner’s specific requirements. Usually running alongside technical upgrades, paint and survey requirements, the possibilities to enhance our clients' onboard experiences on their newly purchased or existing yacht are endless.
“We initially chose Pendennis because of its rich history of rebuild and restoration projects. The quality of craftsmanship is extraordinary, and, as we soon found out, so is their flexibility. As our crew aptly dubbed it, this refit was a ‘voyage of discovery’; and every challenge Pendennis faced was handled with precision and care.”
JESTER
Having undertaken a period of pre-refit inspection and trials in Falmouth in early summer 2021, it soon became apparent that the proposed refit of the 69m 1972 luxury expedition yacht Jester was a lot more ambitious than anticipated. Her new Owners and their team were keen to significantly upgrade her systems, interior and deck spaces, and put their own stamp on the yacht. Pendennis tackled this challenge head-on and over the next 23 months worked tirelessly on a complex refit utilising the full spectrum of in-house trades.
Major project highlights included internally building a completely new crew and luxury guest interior to the design of RWD, overhauling her original engines and generators and installing a new generator exhaust system, and upgrading all domestic services and electrical wiring on board. Externally, our fabrication team replaced 130t of steel on both the hull, main deck and the double bottom tanks, whilst the exterior outfit department installed a new multi-sports games deck, a new aft deck SOLAS crane, dive room including decompression chamber, and a hydraulically operated cargo hatch for 10 bike racks and other adventure toys. Finally, the paint team completed a full re-fair of the hull, then went on to completely repaint the vessel’s topsides and superstructure.
Jester’s ambitious programme of work was completed in under two years and the vessel left Falmouth in May 2023.
CAPTAIN MY Jester
RESTORATION
Throughout our long history, we’ve completed multiple restoration projects, working on some of the most iconic yachts in the world. Our team loves taking on the sympathetic restoration of any yacht built in a bygone age. Stripping back years of wear and tear to reveal the original beauty and heritage is a true privilege.
Of course, the challenge of every heritage restoration is the element of the unknown; as well as returning a craft to its former glory, our team often uncovers the unknown but much-needed repairs that any active vessel accumulates over time. Patience, care, and an eye for detail are all essential tools of our trade.
We take a considerate yet passionate approach to every restoration project, ensuring the yacht retains its original aura, character and pedigree, while still incorporating modern systems and technology.
Simultaneously, the yachts we’ve worked on become a part of our own heritage. These include Haida 1929, originally built for millionaire Max C. Fleischmann, and the J-Class sailing yacht Shamrock V, built in 1930 for Sir Thomas Lipton’s fifth and final America’s Cup challenge.
“Marala's project at Pendennis was not your typical refit, due to the mix of old and new. Almost daily discussions ensued to decide exactly how best to execute each job. This was undertaken with great success, flexibility and understanding of our wishes. We are now utilising Pendennis Vilanova as our home base in the Mediterranean and continue to enjoy our relationship with all at Pendennis.”
CAPTAIN MY Marala DISCOVER MORE
MARALA
59m classic motor yacht Marala has a fascinating story of 1930s elegance, German U-boats, and Hollywood glamour. Built by Camper and Nicholsons in 1931, she had unusually few Owners for her age, meaning her character, basic layout and original engines have all been preserved.
Her new Owner sought to have her meticulously restored but understood that her essential structural requirements would impact her interior, meaning it would be wise to address engineering updates at the same time.
On arrival at Pendennis, the yacht was taken straight into the inner dry dock – her home for the next two and a half years – for destoring, investigation work on her steel hull and superstructure and to start her Lloyd’s special survey.
The investigation work into her steel hull and superstructure identified a significant number of areas that needed urgent attention. A comprehensive programme of fabrication, blasting and repainting commenced that resulted in the renewal of over 100 tonnes of steel, predominantly on her hull.
As much of her original timber as possible was retained, including the beautifully aged floorboards in the dining area and saloon. Her rebuilt original engines were kept, and the power train has since been refurbished to upgrade the propulsion down through into the water.
BESPOKE BUILD
Pendennis has developed a strong reputation for creating completely custom superyachts that combine technical excellence with stunning design and performance, in both the sailing and motor yacht sectors. Over the past four decades we have delivered over 30 beautifully constructed bespoke superyachts, working with many of the world’s leading naval architects and yacht designers.
We aim to bring each individual Owner’s dreams to life from concept to completion and beyond. Our completed projects include custom cruising yachts, offering spacious grandeur; a family-oriented sailing catamaran; and a pioneering “compact explorer” motor yacht, designed for adventure
travellers. Though every Owner’s vision is unique, our commitment to excellence across every aspect of our service remains constant.
Building a bespoke yacht is an exciting and often long-awaited life event and we take great pleasure in supporting our clients through the life of their superyacht – developing lasting relationships during the build process, and long into the future.
“As active and experienced sailors, building Vijonara was a dream that we had had for a very long time. She gives us the flexibility, freedom and range to discover parts of the world that we had never been able to sail to. The yard made an excellent impression, however what it comes down to is the people; that’s what makes the difference.”
OWNERS SY Vijonara
VIJONARA
The 128' Hoek sloop Vijonara was delivered in spring 2018, following her 18-month build programme in Falmouth. The second hull in the Hoek “Truly Classic 128” series, Vijonara was extensively customised by her knowledgeable and experienced Owners to suit their lifestyle and brought to life by Pendennis’ skilled craftspeople.
The deck layout was reconfigured in line with the Owners’ requirements, with a helm station positioned in front of the aft deckhouse creating a social atmosphere close to the centre cockpit. In doing so, the aft cockpit has become the Owner’s cockpit, not only creating privacy but also providing an extension of the aft Owner’s cabin and deckhouse.
A comfortable layout suitable for family cruising was key to this project. An open-plan Owner’s suite, designed for relaxation and privacy, includes his-andher bathrooms, a private seating area and a study, and the unique addition of an oculus with its own underwater lighting, through which the Owners can view the underwater world by both day and night.
Vijonara showcases an extraordinary level of attention to detail in the interior and exterior joinery, making her a very special addition to the fleet of 30 other bespoke-built superyachts launched over the years by Pendennis.
A COLLABORATIVE APPROACH, FROM CONCEPTS TO COMPLETION
We know that entrusting your yacht to a shipyard, whether for routine survey and technical works, an aesthetic update or complete structural rebuild, just doesn’t compare to being out on the water with your family and friends. However, whether we are refitting your current yacht or building a new design from scratch, we want to make the time you spend with us enjoyable, memorable, and most of all, fun.
We welcome regular client visits throughout the duration of your project and endeavour to lay on the best that Cornwall has to offer while you are here with us. From a helicopter trip for lunch on the Scillies to a classic car tour of the local area, private guided visits to local gardens and vineyards to Cornish wine tasting in our much-loved Yacht Club, fine dining in the keep at Pendennis Castle to firework displays off the beach to celebrate your yacht’s launch – we want you to become a part of the Pendennis family and look back fondly on your experience with us. We like to consider all yachts that we have built or refitted part of the “Pendennis fleet” and enjoy welcoming them back again and again to provide through-life support and continuity of care.
Our classic car tour allows our clients to experience the best of Cornwall with likeminded classic car enthusiasts
SUPERYACHT DESIGN AT THE CUTTING EDGE
Our commitment to innovation and the use of cutting-edge technology can be seen throughout our bespoke projects. Whether at the forefront of utilising teak alternatives, designing and installing energy-efficient systems to enable existing vessels to operate with lower emissions, or building a zeroemissions vessel harnessing developments in ultra lightweight aluminium design and technology – we are passionate about offering our clients the very latest technological advancements.
We recently opened a new Digital Manufacturing Centre on-site in Falmouth, bringing together our existing capability with additional CNC cutting, profiling and machining equipment to fully leverage our 3D scanning and design capability. We can now offer competitive in-house machining services to any of our clients around the globe.
GLOBAL SUPPORT AND SERVICES
“The support we receive from Pendennis is impeccable, with a very quick response time and very fair pricing especially when compared to some of the big yacht supply firms.”
CHIEF ENGINEER MY Malahne
We provide a dedicated after sales and yacht support service that offers a comprehensive, worldwide technical and logistical support network. The same highly-skilled craftspeople who build and refit yachts are also available to travel the world, meaning they can be onhand whenever – and wherever – you need their support. Our specialist trades include electricians, fabricators, joiners, painters, engineers and exterior outfitters.
Our range of services includes extended commissioning, parts and equipment supply, interval survey and service work, flying squads for on-board projects and in-service training. Our clients benefit from dedicated technical support during superyacht regattas, ensuring their yacht performs at its best.
HOW TO FIND US
Our primary location in the southwest of England benefits from beautiful natural surroundings, convenient transport connections to the rest of the UK and a diverse mixture of local amenities including award-winning restaurants, bars and shops.
By car
Take the M5 south to Exeter and join the picturesque A30 that takes you through the rolling countryside of Devon and over the dramatic Bodmin moor. From Truro, pick up signs for Falmouth following the A39. Postcode: TR11 4NR.
By rail
The nearest main line station is Truro. From here, access can be gained to anywhere in the UK using the extensive rail network.
By plane
Our Falmouth facility has an on-site helicopter pad, as well as being within easy reach of several private airports equipped to take aircraft of all sizes. Alternatively, Cornwall Airport Newquay, just 30 minutes’ drive away, offers several connecting flights a day from London as well as to other major UK cities. Exeter and Bristol are the closest international airports with flights to most major European destinations.
Manchester
Stansted
Newquay
Gatwick
Bristol
LONDON
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Pendennis Falmouth
Outer Covered Dry Dock
Inner Covered Dry Dock
Construction Hall 1
Construction Hall 2
OuterArm
Construction Hall 3 Main Offices Canteen