Lifetime achievement honour for Piers Wilson in UK superyacht sector
Piers Wilson is the deserving recipient of the inaugural Superyacht UK Lifetime Achievement, presented at the CWM FX London Boat Show. This new award has been introduced to honour those who have made an outstanding lifetime contribution to the superyacht sector and, in particular, the aims and objectives of Superyacht UK (SYUK). The recipient is chosen by past and present Chairmen of SYUK.
Piers’ started his career in the marine industry as Production Manager at Camper & Nicholson’s Northern Yard. He then went on to establish Southampton Yacht Services in 1980 at Shamrock Quay with John Dean. Classic yachts are very close to his heart and he soon secured projects such as Ticonderoga (Herreshoff), Belle Adventure (Fife), Altair and the J-Class Velsheda. Piers has also been heavily involved with 45m motor yacht refits, racing yachts such as Mari Cha and has worked with Vosper Thornycroft and Pendennis on numerous projects.
SYUK Chairman Mike Carr said: “Piers is a charming and enthusiastic man, who has great respect and following amongst his employees as well as industry colleagues. He is without doubt a true pillar of the UK superyacht sector and a worthy recipient of this lifetime achievement award.”
On receiving the award Piers added: “This award has come as a complete surprise to me and I am delighted to accept it. I have been very aware of the importance of Superyacht UK in promoting British companies’ interests in the marine market and I am honoured that my friends and colleagues have chosen me to be the recipient.
“I opted to change careers from the automotive to the marine industry forty five years ago and I can honestly say that I have never regretted that decision. The combination of technical challenges, commercial considerations, employment of highly skilled craftsmen and meeting extraordinary owners has ensured a fascinating career.”
The award was presented to Piers at the annual Superyacht UK (SYUK) Technical Seminar on Thursday 15 January 2015.
ENDS
For more information please contact Camilla Colborne on 01784 223614 or email ccolborne@britishmarine.co.uk
Photo above: Piers Wilson (centre) receiving the Superyacht UK Lifetime Achievement Award from past SYUK Chairman Albert Levy (L) and current SYUK Chairman Mike Carr (R).
Notes to editors
Superyacht UK, part of the British Marine Federation, is the association supporting superyacht businesses in the UK, comprising naval architects, designers, service, finance and legal companies, equipment manufacturers and superyacht yards. For more information, visit www.superyachtuk.com.
The British Marine Federation has over 1,500 members representing an industry employing more than 35,000 people in the UK. Members are drawn from both the seagoing and inland sectors of the marine industry covering the leisure boat, hire fleet, commercial workboat and superyacht categories and supporting services. For more information about the work of the BMF and how to join, please visit the website at http://www.britishmarine.co.uk/.