When the owner of this yacht met us at Southampton Boat Show in 2025, the yacht was still a modern, well-maintained and highly capable boat. Rather than replacing it, the owner wanted to enhance what he already had – updating selected interior finishes and details to create a fresher, more contemporary look in line with the latest F55 styling, at a fraction of the cost of new.
With new yachts continuing to command a significant premium, upgrading an existing F55 offered a far more economical route to achieving the desired result than replacing the boat altogether.
After our refurbishment on the left. Before on the right hand side.
The project also provided an opportunity to address a significant water ingress issue, ensuring the yacht was updated aesthetically and the underlying technical issues were resolved.
One of the most noticeable issues was the Saloon headlining, which had developed a yellowed appearance over time.
The discolouration was linked to a production-related adhesive issue that affected a number of yachts from the period. Rather than simply replacing the visible material, SETAG took the opportunity to redesign the headlining, reducing the number of panel splits and creating a cleaner, more contemporary finish.
Swipe for the Before.
The revised design was carried through the Saloon and Dinette, as well as the Galley and Aft area. Speaker covers were refinished to complement the new headlining, while new recessed cone lights were incorporated into the forward and aft sections.
The result is a noticeably cleaner and brighter interior, while retaining the character and quality of the original Princess design.
The original leather upholstery was also ready for an update. We re-styled and reupholstered both the Port and Starboard Saloon sofas, together with the surrounding liners and upper Saloon sections. The new, lighter upholstery creates a more contemporary feel and works with the revised headlining to give the Saloon a fresher, more open appearance.
Behind the cosmetic improvements was a more important technical requirement: a significant water ingress issue needed to be properly traced and resolved.
We investigated the source of the leak and carried our a series of sealing works across the yacht. The Flybridge wetbar bolting flanges were removed and resealed, while the Flybridge grab handles were also sealed to prevent water ingress into the Saloon.
A leaking windscreen exterior mullion was removed and resealed, addressing another potential source of water ingress.
The Forward Cabin headlining was removed to allow the area around the leak to be properly inspected and treated, rather than simply covering the symptons.
Not every yacht needs a complete refit. Sometimes the most sensible approach is to identify the areas that are letting the boat down, resolve any underlying technical issues, and invest selectively.
For this F55, that meant retaining a relatively modern boat, addressing important water leak issues and transforming the interior through carefully considered updates. The result is a yacht that feels fresher, lighter, and more contemporary – without the cost and discuption of replacing an otherwise, excellent boat.
Experience the thrill of owning a bespoke masterpiece
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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Bought specifically for a SETAG refit after a meeting at Southampton Boat Show – a full Princess 42 refit inspired by the owners’ love of colour, texture and individuality, transforming a traditional interior into a warm, contemporary and highly personal living space.
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A detailed refit with a focus on material upgrades, refined finishes, and correcting age-related wear. Through new upholstery, interior reworking, and precise detailing, the project elevates a production yacht into a cohesive and contemporary space.
Find Out MoreFollowing 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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Experience the thrill of owning a bespoke masterpiece
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.
Find Out More 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.
Find Out MoreThis project centred on a highly distinctive Predator 57, originally based in Greece and brought to Plymouth for a comprehensive design & refit.
From the outset, this was not a standard refit. The owner played an active role throughout the process, contributing directly to design decisions and detailing, particularly within key social and functional areas such as the Galley and Saloon.
The result is a yacht that reflects a strong personal design language—confident, expressive, and intentionally unconventional. Vibrant colours, contrasting textures and layered materials were used throughout to create a highly individual onboard environment.
One of the most significant interventions was the complete reconfiguration of the Galley and adjoining Dinette.
The original layout was reworked to expand the kitchen footprint, by removing the surplus seating and TV in the Dinette area and creating new cabinetry – to house additional refrigeration, integrated dishwasher installation, worktops and bespoke storage solutions. Lighting was redesigned to enhance both function and atmosphere, creating a warm and visually striking focal point within the yacht.
After our refurbishment on the left. Before on the right hand side.
This area now functions as a true central living space rather than a transitional compartment, reinforcing the yacht’s shift toward a more residential, lifestyle-led interior.
Swipe to see the Before.
Across the yacht, almost every interior surface was reconsidered. New warm lighting throughout, extensive reupholstery, custom cabinetry detailing and refined joinery work created a consistent modern language onboard.
The Saloon underwent one of the most comprehensive redesigns onboard, shifting it from a conventional yacht lounge into a highly bespoke, residential-style living environment.
The saloon was reimagined to create a lighter, more contemporary living space. The sofa was redesigned with a softened curved form, while all grey sidelinings were replaced with lighter finishes to brighten the interior and enhance the sense of space.
The formal dining table was removed in favour of a bespoke pouffe and coffee table arrangement, creating a more relaxed and sociable atmosphere. Owner-selected lighting and carefully integrated detailing completed the transformation, resulting in a highly personalised space that feels both modern and inviting.
Swipe to see the Before.
Cabin doors were redesigned with walnut framing and upholstered panels, while leather detailing, textured finishes and softened forms introduced a more contemporary, boutique-hotel feel to the accommodation spaces.
Whilst the Cabins had a light touch – benefitting from improved storage solutions and refined material layering.
The owner’s suite received a refined refresh focused on comfort and detailing. Leather-wrapped surfaces, reupholstered bed surrounds and discreet feature lighting introduced warmth and texture, while owner-selected lighting added a more residential feel.
Combined with updated finishes and carefully considered material choices, the space now feels calmer, more contemporary and perfectly aligned with the yacht’s overall design direction.
Swipe to see the Before.
Beyond aesthetics, the project included a full engineering focus—covering engine servicing, system audits, plumbing investigations, tank upgrades and mechanical inspections across all key onboard systems.
This ensured the vessel was not only visually modernised but also brought up to a high standard of operational reliability ahead of her return to Mediterranean cruising.
Externally, the yacht underwent a full hull and topside repaint, alongside extensive refinishing of chrome work, teak decking and exterior fittings.
Cockpit seating and sunpads were completely re-styled, while the bathing platform teak, radar arch and numerous exterior details were refurbished or upgraded. New covers and a stainless-steel name completed the transformation.
The result is a visually renewed profile that retains the Predator’s unmistakable character while presenting a far more contemporary and refined finish.
Swipe to see the Before.
The yacht had been fundamentally redefined. What started as a refit became a complete repositioning of the vessel—combining structural renewal, technical enhancement and a highly individual design direction shaped closely with the owner.
The helm was fully redesigned with a complete navigation and control upgrade, bringing modern operational capability to the vessel. A new integrated electronics suite significantly enhances usability and situational awareness, aligning the yacht with current standards of navigation technology.
Enjoy an overview of our project.
Experience the thrill of owning a bespoke masterpiece
Bought specifically for a SETAG refit after a meeting at Southampton Boat Show – a full Princess 42 refit inspired by the owners’ love of colour, texture and individuality, transforming a traditional interior into a warm, contemporary and highly personal living space.
Find Out More A detailed refit with a focus on material upgrades, refined finishes, and correcting age-related wear. Through new upholstery, interior reworking, and precise detailing, the project elevates a production yacht into a cohesive and contemporary space.
Find Out More
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.
Find Out MoreThis Princess 42 is a perfect example of SETAG’s collaborative design approach. Rather than following trends or conventional yacht styling rules, the project focused entirely on creating an interior that reflected the owners themselves — expressive, confident and full of character.
Inspired by the balance of craftsmanship and creativity, the clients began searching for a yacht specifically to bring to SETAG for a complete transformation. From the first conversation at Southampton Boat Show to the final installation, their chosen Princess 42 became the perfect canvas for a highly personal full refit.
After our refurbishment on the left. Before on the right hand side.
From the outset, the brief was clear: this interior needed to feel expressive, layered and full of character. The owners had a strong love of colour, texture and contrast, embracing clashing fabrics, unexpected material pairings and statement finishes that would turn the yacht into something entirely unique to them.
The transformation of the saloon captures exactly what this refit was intended to achieve — a lighter, more contemporary interior that still feels warm, inviting and full of personality. While the original space relied heavily on traditional gloss timber and uniform cream finishes, the redesigned saloon introduces softness, contrast and texture through carefully layered materials and a far more refined palette.
We start with the Before images.
The updated interior now feels brighter, calmer and considerably more sophisticated, while still retaining the character and craftsmanship of the original yacht.
The entire Lower Helm and Console Pod have been stripped & sprayed, along with new instrument panels. A new steering wheel and reupholstered helmseats finish this area into a contemporary, inviting modern space.
The Upper Helm has also had new instrument panels, new i70s and a new steering wheel. We have also upgraded both helms to proportional bow truster controls.
We start with the Before image.
The Forward Cabin headlining has been reupholstered, along with the aft bulkhead and upper and lower headboards to both cabins.
Carpet, lighting upgrades throughout and scatter cushions complete the update.
We start with the Before images.
New upholstery throughout the exterior and a new teak table to the Flybridge dinette seating area. The exterior has been finished with antifoul, anodes and a superstructure polish.
We start with the Before images.
Experience the thrill of owning a bespoke masterpiece
A detailed refit with a focus on material upgrades, refined finishes, and correcting age-related wear. Through new upholstery, interior reworking, and precise detailing, the project elevates a production yacht into a cohesive and contemporary space.
Find Out More 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.
Find Out More A SETAG’d yacht – the premium alternative to buying new. The pre-owned yacht market should offer the same confidence and quality as buying new. SETAG has steadily built a reputation for delivering what many in the industry struggle to achieve: new boat quality, at a pre-owned price point.
Find Out MoreWith 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
Don't just take our word for it...
