Gianni Paladino, Lusben Commercial Director, said about the refit: “ It was challenging project for all of us, not least because the sheer size of this sailing yacht required us to design and build a special system to accommodate the vessel in dry dock. Lusben once again set the stage for a delicate refit operation, with challenging delivery times, that has not only improved the aesthetics and comfort of the yacht, but also returned her to her captain and crew boasting on the one hand better performance and on the other reduced fuel consumption and emissions as a result of upgrades to the onboard systems. The work commissioned also covered routine maintenance, including hull cleaning and overhauling the valves. The lighting has also been replaced with LED technology, resulting in significant energy savings. The teak deck was also replaced, and the interiors refurbished – the cabins and bathrooms in particular – to offer guests an even more welcoming and comfortable night area, plus a fully appointed galley. For these reasons, there was a special focus on the rig, involving controls and cleaning operations across the entire mast handling system. This surface area translates into a top speed of 25 knots with a displacement of 1,240 tonnes. Produced by UK-based Insensys, the forerunner of the Dynarig system is based on three rotating carbon fibre masts capable of deploying up to 2,396 square meters of sail. The distinctive feature of this sailing yacht – and the reason for its emotional appeal – is the sail rig, which underwent extensive work because it is such a vital and delicate system. On the advice of Lusben’s technical experts – demonstrating profitable collaboration between the yard, the captain and the crew – the propellers were thoroughly checked, and the shafts, blades and bearings disassembled and serviced, to ensure efficiency in the years to come and optimise fuel consumption. It is also why the main engine mufflers were changed, delivering significant benefits for both the environment and guests thanks to a considerable reduction in noise levels. This was the reason for the decision to replace the generators with superior class units that are more efficient and have lower fuel consumption. The refit work then focused on sustainability, now a central issue on the political agendas not only of governments but also of boat builders. The various teams then, in turn, carried out maintenance work on the onboard systems – generators, main engines, propellers – including the delicate overhaul of the mast handling system. This operation, more than any other, gave the yard’s technical specialists the chance to show off all their experience and know-how. One of the most challenging jobs was repainting the entire hull in its distinctive ‘Perini Blue’. Lusben’s technical experts, internationally renowned for the quality of their refitting work, have successfully translated the needs of the owner into reality, providing support and coordination for a series of aesthetic and functional improvements. It has taken more than six months and involved over 80 people working on various teams in synergy with the boat’s crew. “Maltese Falcon”, the 88-metre sailing superyacht commissioned by Tom Perkins and built in 2006 by the famed Perini Navi, with naval architecture by Gerard Dijkstra and interior design by Ken Freivokh, has completed her refit at Lusben. The refit is now complete of the iconic sailing yacht that casts a spell over enthusiasts and charterers alike with the beauty of her lines, harmonious design and extensive onboard technology.
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