Velsheda
39m J Class Sailing Yacht | Camper & Nicholsons
This 90-year-old racing legend received a full composite deck lining system, replacing the original plywood subdeck with a lighter, moisture-resistant foundation.
The Brief
In the ongoing search for weight reduction within her class of racing classics, Velsheda approached BMComposites to replace her original plywood subdeck with a composite deck lining system: lighter than plywood, but also more durable and resistant to moisture ingress.
The Approach
The project began with the careful removal of several hundred deck fittings, each logged for later reinstallation. Once the old deck and subdeck were removed, the aluminium deck was prepared ahead of laying lightweight SAN foam core panels across the entire deck, with the original deck levels carefully maintained throughout.
Every deck fitting location required a solid composite insert, accurately cut and embedded into the foam core to take the load. The whole assembly was then encapsulated in glass fibre to seal the deck against moisture ingress and provide an even foundation for the teak deck installation to follow.
The Result
BMComposites’ install team worked closely with Velsheda’s crew and her paint and teak decking contractors, from initial deck removal through to the final reinstallation of deck fittings, in a phased process designed for the most time-efficient refit schedule. Velsheda was relaunched on schedule shortly after her 90th birthday and went on to compete in the 2023 summer racing season.
Begin Your Project
Looking to save weight on a classic refit without compromising durability? Talk to BMComposites about your project.