M5
78m Sailing Yacht | Vosper Thornycroft
The iconic M5 flybridge reborn with sleek carbon-fibre hardtops and new helm consoles, replacing the original steel-and-canvas biminis with a modern, integrated design.
The Brief
BMComposites was commissioned to design, engineer, build and install new carbon fibre hardtop biminis for the flybridge of the sailing yacht M5, replacing the original steel tube and canvas biminis with a lightweight, modern structure.
The new design needed to integrate AV and lighting, along with electrically operated slide-out sunroofs to protect the helmsman. The scope also included two new helm consoles and wheels, designed to complement the flybridge’s new look.
The Approach
BMComposites enlisted designer Adriana Monk, who worked sympathetically with M5’s existing lines to create modern concepts for the helms and three new hardtops: two attached fore and aft of the existing transverse arch, and one covering the forward area of the flybridge.
Taking these concepts through engineering, tooling and manufacture, BMComposites used 3D scanning, 3D CAD modelling and CAD/CAM tooling to produce the hardtops off-site ahead of transport to the yard in Italy. This approach ensured an engineered fit between the new components and the yacht’s existing structure, keeping the on-site installation process efficient.
The Result
BMComposites worked closely with the captain, designers, engineers and subcontractors to manage the process from initial briefing through to final commissioning. The completed refit, featured in a Boat International special report, brought the 30-year-old yacht a modern look and feel while retaining her original character.
References
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From refit to bespoke composite structures, our project management team is ready to talk through what’s next.