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Princess 61 Sleipner Fin Stabiliser Installation – Phase 2 on Jim Davidson’s boat

Following the success of the yacht’s original SETAG refit in 2021, the owner returned to us for Phase Two —retrofitting a Sleipner fin stabilisation system to further enhance comfort, capability and enjoyment underway.

Adding fin stabilisers to an existing yacht is one of the most technically demanding retrofit projects that can be undertaken. Every installation is unique, requiring detailed structural analysis, precision engineering and meticulous workmanship to ensure the system performs exactly as designed without compromising on the integrity of the vessel. 

Engineering Before Installation

Long before any cutting takes place, every installation begins with careful planning. The first stage is determining the optimum position of the fin stabilisers within the hull. This involves assessing the vessel’s structure, internal layout and hydrodynamic requirements to identify the ideal location for maximum performance.

Once the position has been established, structural calculations are completed to ensure the hull can safely accommodation the stabiliser system. These calculations are submitted for approval before the installation proceeds, ensuring the finished installation meets the manufacturer’s engineering requirements.

Preparing the Hull

With the design approved, work begins inside the yacht.

Access is created to the internal hull structure, allowing our engineers to work on the sections where the stabiliser actuators will be installed.

Before any structural modifications are made, core samples are taken from the hull to accurately measure the existing laminate thickness. This allows us to determine exactly how much additional reinforcement is required. Each hull is different, so rather than working to assumptions, the reinforcement schedule is tailored specifically to the vessel.

Structural Reinforcement

The hull is progressively laminated with multiple layers of GRP until the required structural thickness is achieved within a tolerance of +/- 4mm. Achieving this level of accuracy is critical. Too little reinforcement can compromise strength, while excessive thickness can affect the fit and alignment of the stabiliser system.

Throughout this process, careful quality checks ensure the laminate meets the required specification before machining begins.

Precision Machining

This level of installation requires an exceptional level of accuracy. SETAG has developed dedicated installation jigs specifically for this process, allowing the hull openings to be machined with precision. Using these bespoke jigs, the actuator openings are routed to the exact required dimensions before the centre aperture and actuator recesses are machined.

The use of purpose-built tooling ensures every surface remains true, providing the precise tolerances needed for perfect alignment of the stabiliser system.

Installing the Actuators

The stabiliser actuators are carefully lifted into position and temporarily supported using precision wedges, allowing the units to be perfectly centred before the mounting holes are drilled.

A neoprene sealing system is then installed beneath each actuator before the units are bonded externally using marine-grade adhesive.

Once the adhesive has fully cured, the installation is permanently secured from inside the vessel using Chockfast structural adhesive , injected through dedicated ports to create a complete structural bond between the actuator and the hull.

This combination of mechanical accuracy and structural bonding provides an exceptionally strong and reliable installation.

Engineering Without Compromise

Retrofitting fin stabilisers is far more than simply fitting new equipment – it’s a structural engineering project that demands experience, precision and an uncompromising attention to detail.

By combining detailed design work, bespoke installation tooling and rigorous testing, we deliver installations that integrate seamlessly with the vessel while providing exceptional comfort and stability on the water.

Phase 1

Before the fin installation, the yacht had already undergone an extensive SETAG refit, transforming her interior into a bespoke, contemporary living space while preserving the character that made her so special to her owners.

From redesigned living spaces and handcrafted finishes to personalised detailing throughout, Phase One demonstrated how thoughtful design can completely redefine the onboard experience.

Explore how this Princess 61 first began her SETAG journey

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We believe that true luxury evolves through a lifetime of dedication. But it is often hard to quantify what raises something to the level of a luxury product. It is more than a name or a logo: rather it is an attitude, a constant striving for perfection. Browse our transformations into yachts Unmistakably SETAG.

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Sunseeker Predator 57, 2017

A full refit transforming the yacht with a complete exterior repaint, modernised systems, and a bold, owner-led interior redesign defined by bespoke detailing and contemporary finishes.

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Discover the answers to our most Frequently Asked Questions – from understanding the process of working together to where we work & how much a refit with SETAG will cost.

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With SETAG, you can make a huge difference when you buy something secondhand, maybe a bit tired and then you put all of this beauty in it and you create what effectively is a brand new boat. Completely to your own liking, your own standard...creating the perfect boat for us.
Delighted SETAG customer - Squadron 42 owner
Brilliant concept...new boat look and feel at pre-owned prices - by the industry experts. Recycling at its best!
Briony Newington - Founding Partner, Fairline Yachts.
The great thing is, none of this is off the shelf - I love this boat and now she’s got her frock on...this is the best money I've spent.
Delighted SETAG customer - Princess 61 owner
If you want to redefine, refit and remaster your boat who better to do it than the people who designed it in the first place? "What a fantastic idea!"
Miles Morehouse – Marketing Director, Fairline
We cannot recommend the SETAG team highly enough. If you love your current boat, then for a fraction of the cost to change it, have it SETAG’d. The SY branding certainly helped us obtain a premium price. We got what we paid for her in 2017 plus what we spent with you!
Delighted SETAG customer - Targa 50GT owner
I have worked with Chris for over 30 years and I’m pleased to see him develop his own brand - along with likeminded people with industry-leading expertise. The future is bright for SETAG Yachts and pre-owned yacht owners, who can now refurbish their vessels to today’s - or even tomorrow's standards.
David King - Founder, Princess Yachts.
That has been one of the key selling points for us – having that personalised service and having a boat that is unique to us – is standout in its own right. We are pretty blown away…very very pleased. I think it’s fabulous…it has transformed the boat.
Delighted SETAG customer - Targa 47 owner
The perfect way to open up a new market: the "true reflection of luxury". SETAG gets it: simplicity and personalisation are key – with the depth of knowledge to deliver.
James Barke – Managing Director of Boats.co.uk
SETAG are probably the only company who can carry out all the tasks as a ‘one stop shop’. Other yards were reluctant to price work and needed to subcontract many tasks meaning higher costs and longer lead times. If you are in any doubt speak to Chris and his team, they know boats like no one else.
Delighted SETAG customer - Princess 460 Owner
We have been waiting for this quality of service: a comprehensive, professional refit that we can rely on – because of the pedigree of its staff, with over 200 years' experience in our market.
Christopher Head – Group Sales Director for Sunseeker London Group
You have put Princess magic into our beloved Broom.
Delighted SETAG customer - Broom 370 owner
Never have I come across a more able collection of professionals in this market. We have complete trust in SETAG, since its team has been in the business for as long as we can remember. We're very excited to welcome this specialist refit company into our portfolio.
Colin Capewell - Managing Director of Princess Motor Yacht Sales

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