Build a Yacht: New Yacht Construction

Building a yacht is a long-term project and a major investment – it is, therefore, critical to select the right team for your build. This begins with choosing the right broker. Northrop & Johnson’s team of informed brokers are fully aware of the opportunities at every shipyard and will always find the most suitable yacht project to fit their client’s needs. Your Northrop & Johnson broker will discuss your yachting needs with you to determine your exact requirements and will give advice on the most suitable type of yacht. They will then be able to provide measured guidance on the new construction process, explaining the different types, sizes and materials available, while also discussing the financial and legal aspects of a new build.

Once you have made the decision on what you are looking for, your broker will liaise with a number of suitable shipyards, designers and naval architects for your new build project. They will run a bid/tender process with all parties involved, often with the shipyard, designer and naval architect together. Thanks to an immense amount of knowledge, experience and working relationships with various yards, designers and naval architects, your Northrop & Johnson broker will be able to identify the most suitable solution with total impartiality. Sometimes the designer will be commissioned first so that several shipyards can be approached simultaneously to bid on a client’s specific design brief. Alternatively, some shipyards have naval platforms already associated with a specific naval architect or designer and a proven track record that can be tweaked to fit your requirements, which can have advantages as these projects will be faster and more cost-effective to build. However you wish to approach the project, your broker will be there by your side throughout to guide you.

Your Northrop & Johnson broker will begin to pull together a team of legal advisors, surveyors, captains and yacht managers for you to meet. Once you have chosen the most suitable build for you, your broker and legal counsel will facilitate negotiations with the selected yard to assure you receive the best value as well as a timely build schedule. Everything from specifications, regulations, warranties, payment and contractual obligations should be decided before you sign any contract. Your Northrop & Johnson broker will be on hand to facilitate throughout all negotiations.

Once the contracts have been signed, the build process will begin. Your Northrop & Johnson broker will play an integral role during the build to mediate between various parties involved. Your build broker will appoint a yacht manager on your behalf who will serve as an invaluable liaison between the broker, client and shipyard. They will supervise the entire new build from start to finish. Together with your yacht manager, your broker will keep you informed as the build progresses and will handle any issues that may arise, always keeping your best interests at the forefront of the build.

Once the build is complete, your Northrop & Johnson broker will ensure that all contractual obligations have been met. The final stage of the build involves testing the vessel and holding sea trials to ensure the yacht is ready for use. Together with your yacht manager, your Northrop & Johnson broker will facilitate all tests and trials to ensure the vessel is to your complete satisfaction. After delivery, they will liaise with the shipyard for warranty issues and will support you as you take to the water on your prized yacht.