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35 years of Pendennis: reflecting on 2010

As part of our 35th anniversary celebrations we’re highlighting momentous sections of Pendennis’ history. This time, we’re focusing on 2010.

Illusion

A major project during the first half of the year was the extensive remodelling of MY Illusion. Illusion revisited Pendennis in 2009, after her previous refit in 2005. The second refit which was completed by 2010 was a much more extensive task. All three aft decks were restyled to designs by De Voogt Naval Architects, resulting in a 5m extension across all three levels as well as a full paint programme and deck upgrades. Through careful assessment and pre-planning of these extensive works, the project was completed in just 8 months.

The refit included a 3-level 5m LOA stern extension, with a drop-down beach club and an enhanced tender garage, enhancing the living space onboard. Pendennis also transformed Illusion’s interiors with contemporary restyling by Bannenberg & Rowell Design.

The motor yacht was shortlisted as a finalist in the 2010 World Superyacht Awards for her refit and stern extension works that were completed at Pendennis. You can read more about Illusion here.

Superyacht Illusion in dry dock at Pendennis during refit preparations.

In the outer dock before her stern modifications

Scaffolding surrounds Illusion's stern as refit works begin to remove the aft section.

Work begins on removing Illusion's stern

Superyacht Illusion in Pendennis’ dry dock during flood up after an eight-month refit, with crew working on deck.

Flood up following 8-month refit

Illusion underway at sea showcasing her extended 5m stern remodel.

The remodelled stern with 5m extension

Aft view of Illusion at sea showing tender garage and multiple deck levels with guests relaxing.

Illusion's tender/watersports garage

Superyacht Illusion cruising after her Pendennis refit, with guests enjoying the sun decks.

Illusion at sea following her refit at Pendennis

Stylish upper salon on Illusion with modern lounge area, bold accents and a private study desk.

Bannenberg and Rowell transformed the social spaces

Guests relaxing in the newly installed jacuzzi on Illusion’s sundeck following Pendennis’s 2010 refit.

Pendennis installed a jacuzzi during the 2010 refit

Devonport Yachts

Another landmark event for the company at this time included the acquisition of Devonport yachts, which expanded Pendennis’ expertise to 60m+ projects. In 2010, Pendennis had already established itself as an industry leader in refit and new build of superyachts up to 60m, by placing the Devonport brand within the group allowed Pendennis to expand its portfolio hence aiding Falmouth’s development as one of the leading superyacht centres in the UK and Northern Europe.

96m superyacht VAVA II on the water, showcasing Pendennis’s large yacht expertise following their acquisition of Devonport Yachts in 2010.

In 2010, Pendennis aquired Devonport yachts, expanding Pendennis expertise to 60m+ projects

The Second Pendennis Cup

2010 saw the second occurrence of the Pendennis Cup, which coincided with Falmouth Week and saw several classic sailing yachts grace Falmouth Harbour once more. In the Big Class sailing yachts category Adela, Mariquita, Mariette and Velacarina took part. The small class included classic sailing yachts Pinuccia and Tomahawk.

The final race of the Pendennis Cup – the ‘St Piran Pursuit Race’ was met with sunny spells and winds of 15-20 knots. Adela led the reach to the finish at the final day of the Pendennis Cup, winning overall. Several spectator and press boats looked on, and the racing provided drama and excitement for all.

Fireworks lighting up the night sky over Falmouth Harbour during Falmouth Week 2010.

Fireworks over the bay - Falmouth Week 2010

Aerial view of Adela racing with full sails during the 2010 Pendennis Cup, featuring a striking red spinnaker with a white "A".

Adela racing in the 2010 Pendennis Cup, which she went on to win

Crew member stands on the mast of a classic yacht during the 2010 Pendennis Cup, as Red Arrows jets perform overhead with colourful smoke trails.

The Red Arrows soaring past during the 2010 Pendennis Cup

A Spitfire flies low past a classic gaff-rigged yacht with full sails during the 2010 Pendennis Cup.

A spitfire flying by during the 2010 Pendennis Cup

Refits

Velacarina
was a first-time visitor to Pendennis’ refit facility in 2010, participating in the 2010 Pendennis Cup following her re-launch.

The refit project of Velacarina in 2010 included an extensive work list; a complete hull re-spray, new hydraulic powerpack and associated works, an air conditioning overhaul as well as electrical works and engineering and joinery elements. Since, Velacarina has frequently visited the Pendennis yard both in Falmouth and Palma. She is the third example of this truly Classic line of yachts that we have welcomed into the yard. Velacarina went on to win the 2014 Pendennis Cup.

2010 saw the classic twin-masted schooner Mariette visit Pendennis for the first time. Mariette was built by Herreshoff in the United States in 1915. Her 2010 visit to the Falmouth yard was for a pre-summer refit. Mariette has since returned to the Falmouth yard for subsequent refits such as in the Spring of 2012 to prepare for the Pendennis Cup. The beautiful schooner regularly partakes in the Pendennis Cup and is also now a frequent visitor to Pendennis in Vilanova, our Mediterranean facility.

Other notable refits not to be missed in 2010 include the refits of SY Rebecca, and the SY Moonbird.

Velacarina under sail during the 2010 Pendennis Cup, captured mid-race after her refit.

Velacarina racing at the 2010 Pendennis Cup following her refit

Classic schooner Mariette under full sail during the Pendennis Cup 2010, with St Anthony Lighthouse in the background.

Mariette racing at the Pendennis Cup 2010

Let's Talk

Whether you are looking to build from scratch, restore a classic beauty or make improvements to your current yacht, it all starts with a vision, and a conversation. We're here to discuss your next project, whenever you're ready.