Huisfit completes the refit of 'Adèle'

Adèle, the 55m ketch launched by Vitters in 2005, has left the Royal Huisman facility in Holland for the Arctic, following an extensive refit period. She is also the first yacht to be refitted following the extension of the refit hall at Huisfit last winter.

In addition to her charming exterior, at 11 years old Adèle has a remarkable history of global exploration, having been designed for blue water cruising. Following her delivery in 2005, Adèle’s maiden voyage was in the Norwegian fjords, prior her long journey to the Pacific Ocean. The 55m ketch was then sold in in 2007 to her current owners, who according to Royal Huisman still cruise extensively to remote corners of the globe.

As a result, Adèle covers vast distances during her busy schedule, so maintaining her machinery, systems and rig as well as joinery paintwork and varnish presents is challenges for the crew.

Image courtesy of Priska Vander Mulen

Captain Andre Engblom, who has been with the yacht since the original build at Vitters commented on the process. “We started planning 18 months in advance. This pre-planning process was really important from the perspective of ensuring accurate project management to avoid conflict between the various trades.” He continues, “Being involved in the original build at Vitters meant that both Taco and I had in-depth knowledge of Adèle right down to her foundations.”

Image courtesy of Priska Vander Mulen

Adèle has undergone a complete mechanical upgrade, which has meant removing the entire engine room and replacing all of the main engine and generator exhaust hoses with extra tough glass reinforced epoxy (GRE) piping, Royal Huisman’s standard choice for new builds. Other items include:

• Service and complete overhaul of propulsion, generators, thrusters and other on board systems
• Climate control upgrade, including new chiller and ducting
• Replacement of batteries
• Exchanging lighting systems to LEDs
• Upgrade and replacement of electronics for navigation, communication alarm and monitoring
• Repairs of the interior
• New teak deck and partial replacement of the caprails
• Servicing of hatches, winches and various deck equipment
• Painting of the inside of the hull and parts of the interior
• Repaint and varnish of the superstructures and rig

Image courtesy of Adèle's crew

Image courtesy of Adèle's crew

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ROYAL HUISMAN

Vitters Shipyard BV

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