Kokomo II Completes Refit and Extension at Rivergate

During a yard visit in 2019, the plans for this comprehensive refit and extension were first discussed between Luke Caldwell, Captain of Kokomo II, and Rivergate’s General Manager, Andrew Cannon.

The extension of Kokomo II’s transom has added an extra three metres onto the overall length of the superyacht, now at 37-metres. Other projects carried out included a full exterior paint job and full electrical works.

“When you carry out major works like an extension, it’s a great opportunity to then revamp other works because you’re out of the water for an extended period of time,” reflects Captain Luke Caldwell.

Rivergate Marina & Shipyard boasts a glowing reputation as one of the best refit facilities not only in the Southern Hemisphere, but around the world. Its idyllic location, world-class trades and infrastructure has been a major drawcard for owners and captains. More than this, it is the project management and attention to detail of the Rivergate team that is often the source of praise from visiting yachts.

“Right from the start our first yard work here has always been smooth,” continues Luke Caldwell. “It’s that extra help outside of the scope that I find the biggest benefit to having all the contractors onsite and the team of people who really know what they’re talking about.”

Marty Johnson, Project Manager at Rivergate, shared his pride at enhancing a heritage yacht with modern standards of performance and comfort.

“Its been an awesome project to work alongside the crew and captain under the owner’s direction with our onsite contractors who have been heavily involved in the refit right from day one from project planning full to completion,” said Marty.

“Every refit is different. Every owner has different requests, every crew and captain have different ways of doing things. Probably the highlight for the vessel is the fact of her vintage and we’ve now brought the vessel up to modern day standards with the additions, adding a lot of extra benefits to the vessel – better liveability and better for cruising the beautiful waters around Australia.”

You can discover more about the refit opportunities at Rivergate in the Australia InDepth episode 'A Refit Capital', hearing from Director Tom Hill along with the testimonies of other visiting superyacht captains.