Owning and operating a classic wooden yacht like Seafin is both a privilege and a long-term responsibility. These vessels are more than just boats—they are floating pieces of history that require continuous dedication, skilled craftsmanship, and an immense amount of care to preserve their beauty and functionality.

Unlike modern fiberglass yachts, wooden yachts demand a hands-on approach. Every plank, frame, and fitting tells a story, and maintaining them involves far more than routine servicing. It’s a year-round commitment to restoration, preservation, and respect for traditional boatbuilding techniques.

A Storied Past: The Legacy of Seafin

Seafin was originally launched in 1961 by the esteemed John J. Thornycroft shipyard in Southampton—one of the last wooden vessels they ever built. Initially named Shoanne, she was expertly constructed using pitch pine on oak frames, with a solid teak deck—materials and methods that reflect the exceptional standards of craftsmanship from that era.

Throughout her six-decade lifespan, Seafin has undergone several transformations. At one point, she was owned by a member of the Profumo family and later relocated to Ireland, where she was lovingly renamed Seafin. Her journeys have taken her far and wide, from the coasts of Italy and France to the Balearics, Paris, and London—each destination adding to her rich maritime heritage.

Preserving a Classic: Maintenance with Meaning

Maintaining Seafin is not a once-a-year task—it’s a continuous process. From sanding and varnishing to full deck replacements and structural reinforcements, her upkeep requires both precision and patience.

This winter’s work has included a range of essential restorations: hand-sanding timber, reapplying layers of protective varnish, addressing wear on her teak deck, and strengthening the structure where necessary. Each task is carried out by our dedicated team of shipwrights—craftspeople who bring decades of knowledge and an unwavering respect for traditional methods.

Their work doesn’t just keep Seafin afloat—it keeps a legacy alive.

More Than Just a Boat

Restoring Seafin goes beyond simple maintenance. It’s about preserving a golden era of yacht building, where boats were made with heart, hand tools, and heritage. Vessels like Seafin serve as reminders of the artistry that once defined maritime construction, and we are incredibly proud to be stewards of that tradition.

Whether you’ve sailed a classic yacht, restored one, or simply admired their timeless lines, you’ll understand the deep connection that forms between vessel and caretaker.