How Much Does It Cost to Refit a Yacht?

A full yacht refit is one of the most strategic yet complex investments an owner or operator can undertake. Whether driven by aging systems, evolving safety standards, or a shift in usage, from private to charter, for example, the decision to refit is rarely just about aesthetics. Understanding how much it costs to refit a yacht is essential not only for budgeting, but also for aligning stakeholder expectations and project scope.

Costs can vary dramatically depending on vessel size, refit objectives, and location. We’ve managed refits across a wide range of vessel types and sizes, and this guide is designed to provide stakeholders with a realistic, experience-backed perspective on refit cost structures.

What is a Yacht Refit and Why It Matters

A yacht refit refers to the process of restoring, upgrading, or modernizing a vessel, ranging from cosmetic improvements to full technical overhauls. Unlike regular maintenance, a refit involves significant planning, downtime, and capital.

Common Objectives Behind Refits

• Modernizing outdated electrical, propulsion, or navigation systems

• Enhancing guest spaces or crew welfare facilities

• Ensuring compliance with IMO, SOLAS, and class regulations

• Preparing a vessel for charter or commercial service

• Extending operational life and increasing resale value

Refits are strategic interventions that maintain competitiveness, safety, and comfort, especially as vessels pass the 10- to 15-year mark.

What Influences Yacht Refit Costs?

1. Vessel Size and Complexity

Larger yachts have significantly more complex systems and materials requirements. Here’s a general cost range:

2. Refit Scope

Each project is shaped by specific goals. Key scope categories include:

• Technical Systems: Main engines, generators, HVAC, control systems

• Structural Work: Hull restoration, fairing, extensions

• Interior Renovation: Furniture, lighting, layout reconfiguration

• Compliance Upgrades: Fire safety, lifesaving appliances, stability corrections

• Bridge and Navigation: Integrated bridge systems, satcom, radar refits

3. Shipyard Location and Workforce

Regional factors such as labor costs, skill specialization, and tax regulations play a major role:

• Turkey (e.g., Tuzla, where KRM Yacht operates): Competitive rates, deep talent pool, full-spectrum technical capability

• Italy/France/Spain: Strong on luxury interiors, mid-to-high cost

• Germany/Netherlands: Engineering excellence, highest cost bracket

• U.S.: Regulatory expertise, varying service quality by yard

Breakdown of Common Yacht Refit Costs

Hull and Exterior

• Sandblasting, fairing, coatings: $150,000–$500,000

• Steel or aluminum hull repairs: $200,000–$800,000

• Teak deck re-laying: $100,000–$300,000

Engineering Systems

• Main engine rebuild or replacement: $300,000–$1 million per unit

• Generator upgrades: $75,000–$150,000 each

• HVAC overhaul: $200,000–$500,000

Interior and Crew Areas

• Guest area refit: $500,000–$2 million

• Galley and crew quarters modernization: $100,000–$400,000

• Custom carpentry and joinery: highly variable

Navigation and Electronics

• Radar/ECDIS/bridge console upgrades: $500,000–$1.2 million

• Satcom and AV/IT systems: $200,000–$600,000

Safety and Compliance

• Fire suppression installation: $150,000–$300,000

• Davit and LSA upgrades: $100,000–$250,000

• Documentation and class support: $50,000–$100,000

Strategic Insights from KRM Yacht

We’ve managed full and partial refits for vessels ranging from 20 to 65 meters, with diverse scopes, technical, structural, and cosmetic. We emphasize:

Best Practices for Owners and Project Leads

• Detailed Pre-Refit Assessment: Technical surveys help define true scope

• Defined Specifications: Avoiding vague goals reduces overruns

• Integrated Project Management: Cross-trade coordination is vital

• Transparent Budgeting: Include a 10–20% contingency

• Compliance Planning: Address class and flag requirements early

Our refit methodology is built on transparency, efficiency, and maintaining vessel integrity at every stage, from drydock to relaunch.

Yacht Refit Before After

So, how much does it cost to refit a yacht? The answer lies in vessel size, technical complexity, and project ambition. But with clear planning, experienced project leadership, and a capable shipyard partner like KRM Yacht, refits can deliver measurable gains in performance, safety, and long-term asset value.

Whether you’re planning a seasonal update or a full-scale overhaul, our team is ready to support your goals with hands-on technical expertise and shipyard infrastructure in Tuzla, Istanbul.

Explore our full range of services, or contact us directly to begin the planning process.