WHAT HAPPENS AT THE YARD: OCTOBER

October was a packed month at VMG Yachtbuilders, with a lot of progress across the yard and new projects joining the line-up. Here’s a look at what’s been going on.

After her relaunch, Simmerdream returned to the hall for a few final refinements. Handrails were reshaped for better grip, new screens were made, drawer systems adjusted, and the floor of the wheelhouse was reconditioned. Soon she’ll head to Stofberg, where she will spend the winter safely tucked away and ready for the next season.

The Puffin 42 is coming together, inside and out. The deck has been placed, the steering house is under construction, and work continues on details like window panelling and the bathroom. The centreboard is ready, and the anchor winch is being fitted by SDH. Behind the scenes, Jongkind is advancing on the technical systems. She is progressing well and already looks the part.

Our restoration of Jeff, the 1923 Little Ship, continues with care and patience. The bilges are being painted section by section and the underwater hull has been sanded. With each step, her original shape and structure come back into focus. We’re carefully preparing her for the next steps, with every phase focused on long-term preservation.

The Sport Fish Series is moving forward at full speed. Hull number 1 has left the yard and is on her way to the United States. Hulls 2 and 3 spent the past weeks in the spray booth and will soon return to the hall for the next stage of outfitting. Preparations for ceilings and upholstery are ongoing, and the wooden details are already waiting on the workbench. One by one, these boats are coming to life.

At SDH, work resumed on the Zilverfloat Scout 35. The anchor system is being assembled, and both the companionway hatch and the bulwark door are being constructed. All components are carefully engineered and prepared for painting, bringing the project closer to its next phase.

Also back at the yard: Sally, now settled in for the colder months, and Seabear, where the refit has started with deck removal. Plenty more to share in the coming weeks.

October had a bit of everything, and we are already looking forward to what’s ahead in November.