PORT ROYAL GROUP

PORT ROYAL GROUP NEWS

2009-10-15T19:00:00.000-07:00

PRG PLANS/SUPERVISES FIRST-EVER INSTALLATION OF HAMILTON HT-1000 JET DRIVES IN FRP HULL

We recently completed the planning, engineering, and installation supervision of a pair of Hamilton HT-1000 water jets in a 145-foot fast patrol hull. This project was noteworthy because it was the first-ever installation of these large units (13-tons each) in a composite hull.

Specially cast aluminum intake ducts were used in place of the standard fabricated weld-in ducts. This required us to develop special proprietary techniques for lifting and locating the units, and for boring and interior spot surfacing for hundreds of bolts and large backing washers. We also developed special proprietaty techniques for epoxy in situ molding of landing pads for the large transom plates.

Proper planning and pre-engineering of purpose-specific jigs and fixtures resulted in an installation precisely on time and on budget.

PRG - AEROLITE MARINE INTERIORS COMPLETE DESIGN, ENGINEERING, FABRICATION AND INSTALLATION OF ULTRA-LIGHT GENUINE TEAK-FINISHED CABINETRY AND FURNITURE FOR SERIES OF 70-FOOT HOVERCRAFT VESSELS

Every pound of structure and furnishings weight is a pound less in payload that these weight-critical craft can carry.

Utilizing our proprietary engineering and fabrication processes, we were able to build these interior accommodations at less than 1/3 the weight of conventional plywood-over-underframed construction. The result was an increase of over a ton in usable payload.

PROTOTYPE CAT ROLLED OUT

Another of our project management contracts recently came to a successful conclusion with the emergence of the prototype for a new line of catamaran motoryachts.

The 65' cat incorporates newly developed active air-cushion technology, and is expected to set a new standard for fuel-efficient performance. Styling for the vessel was done by J.C. Espinosa of Espinosa Inc. of Palm City, FL. Engineering was handled by Vectorworks Naval Engineering LLC, with construction by Vectorworks Marine LLC, both of Titusville, FL.

Our role in the project was to assure that construction met contracted specifications, facilitate timely communications and decision-making, track and re-project on a real time basis the build schedule, audit billings and periodic calls for progress payments, and in general work to keep the myriad contractors and project team members working smoothly together toward realization of our client's goals and objectives.

PRG GUIDES YACHT JOINERY FIRM AS IT REACHES OUT
INTO THE COMMERCIAL AND MILITARY SECTORS

Under the day-to-day operations management and marketing guidance of the Port Royal Group, AeroLite Marine Interiors has been expanding its target market for ultralight joinery and furniture to the commercial and military sectors, particularly in the area of small, fast supply and patrol vessels. Such vessels are payload critical. For a given power input, desingated fuel consumption, and required range, less structural weight means a larger net payload.

AeroLite Marine's proprietary engineering and fabrication techniques produce vessel cabinetry and furniture that is less than 40% of the weight of comparable traditionally-built accommodations. And depending on the size of the vessel, and the extent of her crew accommodations, the weight savings and concomitant improvement in payload can be significant.

Port Royal Group ...because experience always matters.

3550 Sable Palm Lane, Unit C, Titusville, FL 32780

TEL: 954-224-2145 - E-mail: info@portroyalgroup.com

PRE-PURCHASE SURVEY & CONSULTING

2009-10-14T14:21:00.000-07:00

Our Pre-purchase surveys are conducted with the buyer’s interests first and foremost in mind. Pre-purchase surveys, of needs, differ from and are significantly more detailed than the more common Condition/Valuation (C/V) surveys which are performed primarily for the purpose of determining insurability for an insurance underwriter and/or value for an institutional lender.

In general, the primary purpose of a C/V survey is to determine whether the subject vessel represents an “average” underwriting risk. Such surveys are, therefore, of limited value, and may indeed be misleading, if used as the sole basis for a purchase decision. In contrast, a our pre-purchase surveys seek to determine whether the subject vessel has any actual or potential problems — structural, mechanical, electrical, or cosmetic — that might impact a buyer and future owner, independent of considerations relating to insurability and financing. Our pre-purchase surveys involve exceedingly detailed inspection and, where indicated, non-destructive testing of ship's structure, electrical, plumbing, machinery, and electronics.

As part of our pre-purchase survey, we commission and direct an extensive engine survey; and we conduct meaningful sea trials, during which we measure and record actual torque and horsepower production. As indicated and appropriate, we also commission and direct electrics and electronics surveys by appropriately qualified specialists.

In sum, we work for a potential buyer to define in rigorous detail any potential exposure he or she might face in terms of refit, repair, and/or maintenance costs, and to help that buyer evaluate any indicated corrections in a reasonable and accurate cost/benefit perspective.

We also provide, as required, in-process survey and inspection during the course of both new construction and major refit work, as well as classification and certification liaison services.

Contact us today for more information and samples of past work.

Port Royal Group ...because experience always matters.

Copyright © 2010 by Port Royal Group LLC
3550 Sable Palm Lane, Unit C, Titusville, FL 32780
TEL: 954-224-2145 - E-mail: info@portroyalgroup.com

PERFORMANCE CORRECTION & REPOWERING

2009-10-14T14:15:00.000-07:00

We have considerable experience in analyzing and correcting large-yacht performance problems, including but not limited to:

► Insufficient top speed
► Engine overloading (max. loaded rpm too low)
► Excessive fuel consumption
► Excessive operating trim angle
► Problems in static trim
► Insufficient turning response
► Yawing and broaching in following and quartering seas

We work by determining actual torque and horsepower outputs, and comparing performance data collected during sea trials against an extensive database of performance information that is type- and model-specific to your yacht. We then prepare a correction recommendation and a detailed budgetary estimate for any indicated modifications. When the remedial modifications called for are relatively extensive or costly, the budgetary estimate will also incorporate a benefit/cost analysis. If a client decides to move ahead with indicated corrections, we are available to plan and manage the project. Finally, if a client so wishes, we will contract the entire job from start to completion.

Re-powering is often an opportune time for more than a simple a swap-out of old engines for new or rebuilt ones. Re-powering can beneficially incorporate correction or enhancement of performance, the minimization or elimination of chronic vibration, and/or the improvement of noise attenuation.

With long experience in the design and construction of yachts, as well as in the engineering, construction, and refit of propulsion packages and drive trains, we bring a unique perspective to re-powering projects — one that blends technical expertise with a healthy sense of what is feasible and cost-effective.

When designing a re-powering package, we begin with a compilation of real-time vessel test data taken during sea trials, and run that against the stated project objectives and the latest available computer powering models. The result is a yacht that runs faster, smoother, and quieter than it did before, and one which returns to her owner benefits that usually outweigh the costs incurred.

For these reasons, re-powering often provides a yacht a "new lease on life" in more ways than one. And because engine and drive train condition are usually critical factors in a buyer's survey evaluation, re-powering almost always constitutes a cost-effective investment for large yachts. Because we are set up to handle the work from conception to completion, we can make the re-powering process a relatively painless, actually enjoyable experience.

Port Royal Group ...because experience always matters.

Copyright © 2010 by Port Royal Group LLC
3550 Sable Palm Lane, Unit C, Titusville, FL 32780
TEL: 954-224-2145 - E-mail: info@portroyalgroup.com

REFIT PLANNING & SUPERVISION

2009-10-14T14:01:00.001-07:00

Major refit projects require specialized knowledge and in-depth experience if successful completion is to be achieved on time and on budget. At Port Royal Group, we have the accumulated knowledge and experience to develop, plan and supervise major refit and refurb projects successfully.

Our refit experience spans more than 35 years and covers virtually every aspect of yacht maintenance, repair, refit, and refurbishment in aluminum, steel, and FRP, including:

► Interior renovation

► Structural repairs & modifications

► Engine and drive-train rebuild
► Complete re-powering
► Bottom and propeller work
► Topside and superstructure paint
► Electrical and plumbing refurb
► Electronic systems overhaul and replacement
► Re-classification and re-certification liaison

We offer a complete turn-key package, comprised of detailed development of scope of work, all necessary engineering, contract bidding and negotiation of suitable scheduling, placement into an allied boatyard for preferred treatment, day-to-day on-site supervision and tracking, final testing and survey, and billing audit.

Port Royal Group ...because experience always matters.

Copyright © 2010 by Port Royal Group LLC
3550 Sable Palm Lane, Unit C, Titusville, FL 32780
TEL: 954-224-2145 - E-mail: info@portroyalgroup.com

NEW BUILD PLANNING & MANAGEMENT

2009-10-14T12:58:00.001-07:00

We offer a complete array of new construction project planning and management services, including but not limited to:

► Specification development and review
► Contract review and bidding
► Design team co-ordination & supervision
► Project management
► In-process survey and inspection
► Logistical management and cost audit/containment

We deal on a real-time basis with the numerous hitch-ups that inevitably befall a major project, thereby assuring the maintenance of contracted timelines and budgets. We supplement day-to-day on-site inspection and supervision with computerized Critical Path Management (CPM) tracking to assure that construction is being implemented to specification, and that progress is meeting contracted schedules.

In order to ensure a smooth, timely work flow, we track and expedite materials procurement. Where indicated, we provide complete logistical support, including purchasing. We keep our clients fully informed at all times with regular updates weekly and com-prehensive monthly reports. For insurance purposes, and to protect future resale values, we generate detailed written project summaries and photographic records.

Port Royal Group ...because experience always matters.

Copyright © 2010 by Port Royal Group LLC
3550 Sable Palm Lane, Unit C, Titusville, FL 32780
TEL: 954-224-2145 - E-mail: info@portroyalgroup.com

DESIGN & ENGINEERING MANAGEMENT

2009-10-14T09:16:00.000-07:00

We've successfully managed and supervised the design development and engineering for numerous yachts, including more than a dozen megayachts in the 40- to 60-meter range. When appropriate and desired, we provide fully coordinated, single-stop shopping for yacht design and engineering, as well as exterior and interior styling. In addition to our basic team, we maintain contact with a select roster of highly experienced, strategically allied naval architects, marine engineers, and yacht stylists who stand ready to work under our direction on a project-specific basis. By using a blend of talented core team members and outsourced marine professionals, we afford our clients access to an exceedingly broad skills base, while at the same time maximizing cost-effectiveness and flexibility.

Just as important, at the Port Royal Group, we focus on interpreting and implementing our client's vision. Consequently, our oversight brings unified and consistent direction to multi-faceted team projects that might otherwise founder because of competing viewpoints and egos. This approach maximizes the potential for results that will meet your requirements and expectations.

Port Royal Group ...because experience always matters.

3550 Sable Palm Lane, Unit C, Titusville, FL 32780

TEL: 954-224-2145 - E-mail: info@portroyalgroup.com

PORTFOLIO OF PAST WORK

2009-10-14T08:13:00.000-07:00

► Start-up consultant and prototype production manager for new line of high-performance catamaran motor yachts

► Start-up and ongoing operations managers of yacht joiner workshop specializing in prefabrication and installation of ultra-light cabinetry and furniture

► Executive and operations management in the design, building and marketing of more than a dozen megayachts from 30 to 60 meters LOA

► Owner’s consultants and project managers for new construction of 120' custom aluminum fast motor yacht

► Concept development, powering design, and construction engineering consultants for line of 80' catamaran fast motor yachts

► Product development and marine marketing consultants for various new product lines, including aerospace-based epoxy pre-preg FRP laminating materials, non-destructive testing technology, and soybean-oil based diesel fuels and fuel additives

Port Royal Group ...because experience always matters.

Copyright © 2010 by Port Royal Group LLC
3550 Sable Palm Lane, Unit C, Titusville, FL 32780
TEL: 954-224-2145 - E-mail: info@portroyalgroup.com

INTRODUCTION

2009-10-13T18:16:00.001-07:00

Because experience always matters, Port Royal Group should be your first choice for technical, marine business/operations management and related consulting services. With more than 130 combined years background in the marine industry, we bring a wealth of varied experience to the table. Experience and skill. We have the skills base and flexibility to enable us to develop programs and solutions that are custom tailored to meet your needs and requirements.

Drawing from our roster of associated professionals, we provide top quality, cost-effective services worldwide in:

► Yacht design and construction

► New-build project management

► Refit planning and supervision

► Performance analysis and correction

► Re-power design and supervision

► Pre-purchase survey and consulting

► Marine business and operations management

Our forte is the selection, coordination, and direction of expert talent to the achievement of our client's goals and objectives. Our approach is consistently cost-effective because we work by assembling a project-specific team whose skill set and experience precisely match your needs. Additionally, we employ state-of-the-art computerized techniques in all areas of activity, from yacht design and engineering to project planning, management, and reporting. And we pay strict attention to the day-to-day details prerequisite to bringing your project to a successful conclusion.

The attainment of our client's objectives is our primary goal. With that in mind, we work at all times to ensure realization of our client’s vision, while at the same time functioning to mitigate the conflicting tensions generally present in today's team-driven projects. Our oversight brings unified and consistent direction to such multi-faceted team projects, which maximizes the potential for results that meet client requirements and expectations.

Whether you're actually beginning a project or simply considering one, we can help. If you're in the midst of a project gone off track, we can help. If you have a warranty or related problem, we can help. Indeed, whatever your issue, if it's yacht related, we can help. Call or e-mail us today for more information and to arrange a no-cost, no-obligation initial conference.

Port Royal Group ...because experience always matters.

3550 Sable Palm Lane, Unit C, Titusville, FL 32780

TEL: 954-224-2145 - E-mail: info@portroyalgroup.com

MARINE INDUSTRY EDUCATION & TRAINING

2009-10-11T18:10:00.001-07:00

The key members of the Port Royal Group team all have significant experience in teaching and training, both inside and outside the marine industry.

For example, Managing Director Phil Friedman developed and directed one of the first accredited marine industry operations and business management programs in North America, instituted in 1979 at Humber College of Applied Arts and Technology (Toronto, Canada). He has also constructed and run several industrial training programs, and before entering the marine industry, taught logic and philosophy at university. Key Associate Skip Robinson has taught at the college level and, during his many years in the marine industry, created and directed numerous training programs. Key Associate Moroni Duke is a member of the Project Management Institute (PMI), and holds their Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. As a Microsoft Project black belt he trains on a regular basis project managers, with a focus on the implementation of Microsoft Office EPM.

We can custom craft and implement an in-house training program to meet your specific needs, or we may be able to adapt a relevant pre-existing program from our library. Call or e-mail us today to discuss your needs and requirements.

Port Royal Group ...because experience always matters.

MARINE PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT & MARKETING

2009-10-11T18:07:00.000-07:00

Success in finding a suitable niche for a new product requires in-depth understanding of the market, detailed knowledge of potentially competetive products, and general mastery of myriad other market factors and influences.

Over the period of two decades, key members of the Port Royal Group team have aided in the successful development and market introduction of yachts, complete boat lines, and various marine products. These have included a signature sportfishing yacht line, a distinctive megayacht line, two new catamaran lines, a line of patented antifouling technology, and a system of non-destructive structural testing.

Call or email us to discuss on a strictly confidential basis your envisioned product or development, and how we can aid in developing it to meet market needs, requirements, and opportunities.

Port Royal Group ...because experience always matters.

MARINE BUSINESS AND OPERATIONS CONSULTING

2009-10-11T18:04:00.000-07:00

In the boatyard business, substantial fixed overheads run constantly. Consequently, work throughput becomes a key factor in profitability, which means completing projects on time is generally prerequisite to bringing them in at a profit. Whether your concern is with start-up, production streamlining, expansion, costing and bidding, or cost containment and reduction, we can assemble precisely the right team with the skill set necessary to get the job done — on your schedule and within budget.

Many, if not most of these and similar business issues are project specific. That is, they are dealt with most cost-effectively by assembling and directing the right team for as long, and only for as long as it takes to get the job done. By availing yourself of our services in these areas, you not only secure highly competent and experienced performance, but avoid the high costs of adding in-house staff and maintaining ongoing payroll after your project objectives have been achieved.

If you are facing a marine business issue and would like to explore the feasibility of dealing with it on an outsourced basis, we would be more than pleased to meet with you about our background, experience, and how we might be of service. Call or e-mail us today. All inquiries are treated on a strictly confidential basis.

Port Royal Group ...because experience always matters.

3550 Sable Palm Lane, Unit C, Titusville, FL 32780

TEL: 954-224-2145 - E-mail: info@portroyalgroup.com

YACHT CONSTRUCTION AND REFIT

2009-10-11T17:57:00.001-07:00

As yachts have grown larger and more complicated, so has the process of building or refitting one. Indeed, a contemporary yacht build or major refit of any significant proportions more often than not these days involves an entire team of professionals, from naval architects to marine engineers, designers, stylists, and builders.

Few, if any boatyards provide all of the required services, but instead retain, either on the yard's behalf or the owner's, a multiplicity of outside specialists to handle the often complicated and demanding work. The result is that most projects are beset by tensions between divergent talents and egos, between the initial vision of the owner or client and the idosyncratic predilections of the individual members of the project "team."

In such circumstances, an owner or client can benefit greatly from having highly experienced and technically qualified project management and representation. At the Port Royal Group, our mission is to provide that management and representation. Our aim is always to bring to a project a unified overall vision, one that accurately reflects your goals and objectives. We work for you; and we work to see that ultimately your interests are served.

That includes and involves more than simply watching the day-to-day work on the shop floor. It involves seeing to it that the build or refit meets the contracted specifications, that industry standards and contracted levels of quality are maintained, that the project stays on schedule and on budget, that interim payments made to the yard or other contractors match correctly to the work value achieved to date, and that all contracted work stands completed in a satisfactory and workmanlike manner at the conclusion of the project.

We facilitate and coordinate communication and interaction between the commonly diverse members of a contemporary yacht build or major refit project. We track progress against the project schedule, and work to see that all members of the project team remain in sync with one another and the boatyard involved. We buffer and intermediate disputes, develop on an as-needed basis workaround plans when hitch-ups are inevitably encountered, and keep you fully informed at all times, including those when your other demands on your time may prelclude your full attention. We're proud to say that, in most cases, during the course of a major project, we are able to achieve savings for our clients that total more than the fees we charge.

We're able to win and keep the confidence and cooperation of all parties to a project because key members of our team have decades of hands-on experience in the construction and refitting of large yachts, and in the management of world-class boatyards which do that work. In short, we have credibility with all involved because we've been where they're at, we've done what they do, and we appreciate their problems and concerns, and through long experience know how to move things forward to the benefit of all, and ultimately to the benefit of our clients.

Port Royal Group ...because experience always matters.

3550 Sable Palm Lane, Unit C, Titusville, FL 32780

TEL: 954-224-2145 - E-mail: info@portroyalgroup.com

PROJECT PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT

2009-10-11T17:55:00.000-07:00

Effective Project Planning is not generic. Being able to force a purported plan into a format provided by project-generic off-the-shelf computer software does not constitute effective planning. And all the Gantt charts in the world won’t help you in a major boat building or refit project, if you don’t have substantial grounding and many years experience in boatyard operations.

Moreover, project planning, in and by itself, is of very limited value, unless followed up with skilled and experienced project management. Nothing throws grit into the gears of a new build or major refit project so much as indifferent, or an absence of first rate project management. This is true both on the side of the boatyard and that of the owner or client.

Good project management is based and acts upon the truth that a boatbuilding or major refit project is like a marriage: it has to work to the benefit of both parties, the boatyard and the yacht owner, or it won’t work at all. Having managed numerous major build and refit projects from both sides of the desk – that is, as both shipyard operators and as owner’s representatives – we understand how to keep communications open and flowing, how to facilitate the appropriate application of labor and other resources, how to keep an eye on purchasing and expenditures with giving offense, and in general how to keep things running smoothly.

Our standard practice is to “shadow” both planning/management and purchasing/logistics. That is, we create our own plans and schedules against which we measure the yard’s actual progress, thereby letting us know, independently of the yard’s representation, if and when the project schedule may be slipping. And we watch purchasing and logistical management to ensure that costs 1) remain controlled and in line with original estimates and/or contractual requirements, and 2) continue to meet the demands of the production schedule.

Port Royal Group ...because experience always matters.