“From the start, we felt understood. Throughout the entire repair process, communication was very clear and responses were quick. This gave us confidence that we were in good hands and that the refit of our yacht will be taken care of by absolute professionals.”
– Refit story: Boréal 52 Avaley –
Refit Story
Subject: Owners reflect on their refit journey after a harbour incident.
Yacht: Boréal 52 | Aluminium sailing yacht (‘Avaley’)
We spoke with the owners of the Boréal 52 ‘Avaley’, the enthusiastic sailors behind the yacht, which is currently at the yard for a repair after being rammed by a drifting cargo vessel inside the harbour of Marstal, Denmark.
A shared passion shaped by a life at sea
Sailing began early for one of them, while the other discovered it later in life. He was highly determined and went on to achieve several sailing qualifications, building a solid foundation for extensive sailing experience. Over the years, he took the opportunity to sail to many destinations around the globe, doing charters, deliveries, and racing across a wide variety of boats.
From long-distance cruising to full-time life afloat
After retiring, it was clear for both that they wanted to live and travel on a sailboat, so they purchased a Boréal 52. First, after a ten-week trial trip along the south coast of the UK, and after feeling comfortable spending long periods of time on the boat, they decided to go for it.
In April 2025 they quit their jobs and started sailing full-time. The goal with their new yacht was to visit the Baltic states.
An unexpected setback in Marstal harbour
On June 29th, 2025, their journey took an unforeseen turn. While they were ashore for a walk, their yacht was lying moored in the harbour when a 180-ton cargo vessel, drifting out of control, crashed into Avaley’s starboard side.
The hull of the yacht was seriously damaged, and it was immediately clear that this would not be a simple repair.
Trusted Refit partnership
Hylke Boersma, refit project manager at KM Yachtbuilders, went personally to Kiel to inspect the yacht and prepare a quotation.
“From the start, we felt understood, and Hylke came up with many good suggestions, which gave us a very competent impression. He listened carefully, addressed our concerns, and was very honest on what was possible and what not. Throughout the entire repair process, communication was very clear, responses were quick and the quotation arrived within the agreed timeframe. This gave us confidence that we were in good hands and that the refit of our yacht will be taken care of by absolute professionals.”
Craftsmanship, care and life alongside the yard
During their time at the yard, they could see the craftsmen working on their yacht with real passion and care. It was reassuring to watch the progress and see the attention given to many details. And since they are liveaboard, they quickly found a house in Makkum and truly enjoyed their time in Friesland, which made the whole period even more special for them.
Restored with precision. Ready for new horizons.
We are very happy with the final result. The yacht looks beautiful again, inside and out.
Now, the owners can start to plan the continuation of their voyage. Maybe you will see them somewhere in the Baltic..
Fair winds!
