Clearvac Engineering Asia: Bangkok's Rising Role in Superyacht Maintenanc
Bangkok's Rising Role in Superyacht Maintenance
Motor yacht Asia Poseidon, a 2014 Benetti with exterior styling by Stefano Righini and interiors from Zuretti Interior Design, has successfully completed an intensive refit programme in Bangkok. The vessel arrived from her berth in Pattaya before entering Clearvac Engineering Asia’s Superyacht Shipyard, where a concentrated four-week schedule was carried out to meet the requirements of her upcoming RINA class survey.
A key early stage of the refit involved fuel polishing. Diesel was removed and processed through an advanced carbon filtration unit before being stored on site. All fuel, freshwater, black, and grey tanks were then cleaned to allow for internal inspection.
The hull was stripped of biofouling, including algae and barnacles, to restore hydrodynamic performance and prepare the surface for antifouling. New hull anodes and through-hull scoops were installed.
Propulsion and steering systems were fully dismantled for inspection. The propellers, shafts, and rudders were removed and tested, after which new cutlass and rudder bush bearings were fitted. Laser alignment was conducted across the bore, shafts and gearbox, with new chockfast compound installed. The propellers were then dynamically balanced, polished and reinstalled with Propspeed coating.
The swim platform was detached to allow repairs to the fibreglass hinge structure, and the associated hydraulics were serviced. A full set of through-hull valves, manifolds and sea strainers were removed, overhauled, and tested for compliance.
Teak decking across the vessel was recaulked, and Awlgrip paint touch-ups were performed in designated areas. HVAC systems were subjected to full air hygiene protocols — this included cleaning and disinfecting of all ductwork, fan coil units, and air handlers. The galley and laundry extraction systems were also cleaned as a preventative fire safety measure. To complete the process, ozone treatments were applied throughout the interior to eliminate any odours related to the refit period.
Mechanical engineering work concluded with an overhaul of the bow thruster and the fitting of a new bilge pump.
In a statement commenting on the regional advantages of conducting superyacht refit works in Thailand, Robert‘Doc’ Taylor, Managing Director of Clearvac Engineering Asia, remarked:“There’s growing recognition of Bangkok as a serious refit destination. The combination of technical capability, cost efficiency and geographic convenience makes this yard a compelling option for owners and operators in the region. We’re working with a local team of highly skilled professionals who bring a deep understanding of complex systems and refit logistics at this scale.
For vessels operating in Asia-Pacific waters, it makes both operational and economic sense to refit in Bangkok. There’s no need for long repositioning journeys, and the streamlined processes here ensure minimal downtime. When you add the exceptional hospitality and quality of life in Bangkok for crew and contractors alike, it becomes a very attractive place to carry out serious work.”