Behind the Build: Visiting the Sunseeker Shipyard in Poole

Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to visit the Sunseeker shipyard in Poole, UK. Known for their bold styling and performance-driven yachts, Sunseeker has long been a top-tier builder in the 65–130ft range — a global benchmark in craftsmanship and one of the most advanced production facilities in the industry. I was joined by Russell Grace and Douglas Culverwell from the Sunseeker team for a detailed walkthrough of the brand’s build philosophy, innovations, and global market approach.

Built From the Inside Out

Sunseeker’s commitment to vertical integration is central to their quality, efficiency, and consistency. In the past year alone, they’ve increased in-house interior production to 75% and now produce all electrical control systems and external upholstery internally.

“Every yacht that leaves the yard carries the fingerprints of people who’ve dedicated decades to perfecting their craft,” shared the Sunseeker team. “It’s not just production — it’s pride.”

The Poole yard handles everything from hand-laid fiberglass hulls to precision joinery and interior fit-out. With automated cable looming, resin mixing systems, and dedicated sub-assembly areas, they’re streamlining production without compromising on finish. Around 90,000 man-hours go into building a 76 Yacht — a figure that speaks volumes about scale and detail.

Customisation With Purpose

Sunseeker’s flexibility when it comes to layout and design is a major draw. Today’s clients are focused on wellbeing and lifestyle — with growing interest in features like saunas, private offices, flybridge cinema screens, and onboard gyms.

“Because we manufacture everything in-house — from the hull to the upholstery — the possibilities are almost limitless.”

Post-pandemic, the yard responded to client demand for a more involved experience by developing an immersive showroom. Here, owners can interact with layouts, finishes, and tech — building a more emotional connection to the process.

Design Driven by Demand

Sunseeker continues to work closely with regional markets to tailor features to client preferences. A standout trend across both Australia and the US: a demand for seamless indoor-outdoor living. Models like the Ocean 156 and 182 reflect this with fully opening patio doors and convertible upper saloons that transition into open-air deck space.

The yard noted that they are seeing a shift in interior preferences, particularly in the US — where clients are increasingly embracing bolder colour palettes, mixed textures, and expressive finishes. From versatile beach clubs and dedicated toy storage to high-spec outdoor lounges, owners are asking for more — and Sunseeker is responding.

Features like floor-to-ceiling windows, made possible by structural glass advances, are in high demand — offering natural light and a deeper connection to the water.

Craftsmanship Meets Innovation

Sunseeker has long been a pioneer in onboard tech — from the first hydraulic bathing platforms to the now industry-standard tender garages and retractable hardtops. But innovation today goes deeper than design.

“While the design elements often steal the spotlight, we’re just as focused on the behind-the-scenes advancements — hybrid propulsion, next-gen hulls, and intelligent production techniques.”

Sustainability is front and centre: in 2023 alone, Sunseeker cut energy use by 2.2 million kWh, reduced virgin plastic consumption by 8,900 kg, and earned ISO 50001 energy management certification.

Looking Ahead

With a strong inventory pipeline and full-service client support across key markets, Sunseeker is well-positioned for growth. Their yachts in the 68 and 95 range are proving popular across both private and charter-focused buyers — and the brand’s ability to deliver quickly without compromising on quality is a standout advantage.

What struck me most on the visit was the scale of the operation and the efficiency with which each yacht is brought to life. Walking through the facilities, it’s clear that every inch of the yard is optimised for quality, speed, and flow. From bare hulls to finished decks, each stage of the process moves with purpose — backed by decades of engineering and generational craftsmanship.

“There’s a deep-rooted culture of excellence here,” the Sunseeker team shared. “From the joinery shop to the final polish, every detail is handled with an almost obsessive attention.”

Having visited, I can personally attest to that. It was a privilege to tour a facility with such history and precision. At Ahoy Club, we’re proud to offer our clients a curated range of yachts from world-class builders like Sunseeker — delivering vessels that reflect the very best in modern yachting.