Azzura Marine wins international award

Azzura Marine's Newcastle shipyard has been commended for its refit of Richard Branson's luxury 32 metre charter catamaran Necker Belle. At the 5th edition of the World Superyacht Awards, recognising the most outstanding superyachts delivered in 2009, Necker Belle was singled out for her world class refit.

The awards were held at the London Guildhall on Saturday night.

Necker Belle was sailed to Newcastle in 2008 and taken ashore at the Azzura yard for a complete refit. Branson, who owns Virgin airlines and Necker Island in the Caribbean, wanted her interior to look like a high class beach house for the eight guests who charter her each week for $US88,000.

The comprehensive refit addressed structural issues and the vessel was strengthened, had her steering system upgraded, a carbon fibre mast installed and new sails fitted. All the interior wiring was replaced and the engine room overhauled.

With the new luxury beach house interior fitted, Necker Belle underwent sea trials off Newcastle late last year and hit a top speed of 25 knots. She was then sailed back across the Pacific to Necker island to start her new life as a luxury charter boat.

David McQueen, the managing director of Azzura Marine, says the award is a great result for the Australian marine industry as well as his company.

Refitting superyachts has become a major business for many shipyards around the world.