Pendennis Expands Facilities & Workforce
It’s been over two years since Pendennis Shipyard began the major development of its Falmouth-based yard. During this time Pendennis has seen the previous shore side facility almost completely rebuilt, replaced by larger modernised construction halls, workshops and office space. This includes two 90m and one 45m double bay halls, rated to Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology (BREEAM) “Excellence” standards. Despite major infrastructure disruption, through careful planning there was no impact on turnover, productivity or client satisfaction.
At the end of May 2015 the completion of the 7,564m² non-tidal wet basin marked the culmination of the significant investment programme, which was partially funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership’s Growing Places Fund. The wet basin will accommodate superyachts for alongside berthing and refit work as well as support yacht commissioning before and after time out of the water.
These extensive improvements have been in response to the changes in the superyacht industry since the company was founded 27 years ago. Whilst in 1988 a yacht of over 50m was perceived to be large this is now the average LOA (length overall) of vessels visiting Pendennis. In 2014 the largest volume yacht to date, Northern Star at 76.5m commenced her 7-month refit. However this record has already been superseded with the arrival of an 85.6m motor yacht, and as the new wet basin and the pre-existing dry dock can cater to vessels up to 110m this record is sure to be surpassed in the future.
The new basin was christened as the 65m schooner Adix moved in following the completion of her 8-month refit programme. It was fitting that Adix be the first yacht in the wet basin as she has a 24-year history with the company, experiencing three previous refits in Falmouth. Within days of her launch Adix was joined by MY Northern Star, the J-Class Lionheart and classic motor yacht Malahne. In the past month alone 6 vessels ranging from 24m to 85.6m have already docked in the new basin, making the most of the improved access to Pendennis’ refit and new build facility. The yard in Falmouth can now boast some of the largest and most accessible superyacht new build and refit facilities in the world.
Not only have the developments improved our facilities but it is projected to safeguard 315 existing full-time jobs and create a further 60 in the next two years. Pendennis has already started its recruitment drive, with the apprenticeship scheme set to welcome a further group of young people this August. The company is also holding a recruitment evening on Thursday 9th July from 5:00-7:00pm at Pendennis, showcasing current job opportunities for Engineers, Plumbers, Joiners, Electricians, Exterior Outfitters and Fabricators/Welders. To find out more about applying for this year’s apprenticeships or current career opportunities at the Falmouth-based superyacht yard interested parties can contact personnel@pendennis.com.
Pendennis Shipyard
Pendennis has one of the world’s leading custom superyacht build and refit facilities. Building on hundreds of years of local maritime heritage, Pendennis has become one of Cornwall’s most important employers – with over 360 highly skilled trades people based at the 10 acre prime water front location in Falmouth, UK.
The yard’s current development plans have seen the available undercover space increased to provide three water-facing main sheds which consist of 2x90m and 1x45m construction halls. This has provided additional flexible undercover space for Pendennis increasing capacity for both new build and refit contracts for 30-100m superyachts. The yard has taken delivery of a 640tonne travel hoist to support these new facilities. Pendennis has recently completed Phase 2, a 7,564m² non-tidal wet basin to accommodate superyachts before and after their time in the yard. 6 yachts have already made use of this new basin since May 2015.
Over the past few years the company has expanded with the creation of the Pendennis Palma refit facility in 2011. The creation of Pendennis Plus (following the acquisition of Devonport Yachts in 2011) added expertise in the 60m+ arena, and in 2013 the company extended their yacht support service to the Pacific. Having celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2013, Pendennis continues to improve its facilities and international reputation.
Current projects include:
- New Build: 31.3m Dubois Sloop
- Refits : 56m motor yacht, 85.6m Motor Yacht, SY Velacarina, MY Constance
- Recent Restoration: classic MY Malahne
- Pendennis Palma: MY Golden Eagle, SY Nostromo, MY Heavenly Daze
* The Pendennis Yard Development project is part financed by the European Regional Development Fund Programme 2007 to 2013. The Department for Communities and Local Government is the managing authority for the European Regional Development Fund Programme, which is one of the funds established by the European Commission to help local areas stimulate their economic development by investing in projects which will support local businesses and create jobs. For more information visit www.gov.uk/browse/business/funding-debt/european-regional-development-funding
For further details about Pendennis contact: Christine Winans – Marketing & PR
T: +44 (0)1326 211344 F: +44 (0)1326 313572 E christine.winans@pendennis.com