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Sunseeker Predator 57 • 57ft
2016

Rescuing a Sunseeker Predator 57 before the season

From deferred maintenance to reliable weekend cruising in eight weeks.

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The Challenge

A client approached us in March with a familiar problem: they'd purchased a Sunseeker Predator 57 over winter, planning to use it extensively from May onwards. The vessel had been poorly maintained by the previous owner.

After a pre-purchase survey revealed £18,000 of deferred work, the seller agreed to a price reduction—but left it to the new owner to sort out. With just eight weeks until planned family cruising, the clock was ticking.

Our Approach

We immediately conducted a detailed technical audit at the vessel's berth in Ocean Village. The survey highlighted issues typical of poor owner-operator maintenance:

Critical Issues Identified

  • Propulsion: Starboard engine overheating, heat exchanger corrosion
  • Antifouling: Not done in 18 months, significant barnacle growth
  • Safety Equipment: Flares expired, life raft service overdue
  • Electrics: Shore power tripping, battery bank at 40% capacity
  • Maintenance Records: None. No service history at all.

The Eight-Week Plan

  1. Week 1: Detailed specification, yard booking, parts ordering
  2. Weeks 2-3: Lift-out, hull work, antifouling, anodes
  3. Weeks 3-4: Engine service, heat exchanger replacement
  4. Weeks 5-6: Electrical work, battery replacement, shore power fix
  5. Week 7: Safety equipment service, sea trial
  6. Week 8: Final checks, handover, owner familiarisation

Execution

We coordinated all work through a single Hamble yard we trust, avoiding the owner having to deal with multiple contractors:

  • Yard liaison: Weekly updates, photo documentation
  • Parts sourcing: Genuine Sunseeker parts at trade rates
  • Scheduling: Work sequenced to minimise yard time (and cost)
  • Insurance: Coordinated with underwriter for lift-out coverage

The owner visited once during the project. Everything else was handled remotely.

Results

The vessel was delivered back to Ocean Village on time, fully serviced, and ready for the season.

Outcomes

  • ✅ All work completed on budget (£16,200 vs £18,000 estimated)
  • ✅ Propulsion system overhauled with 12-month warranty
  • ✅ Full service history created from scratch
  • ✅ Owner's family enjoyed 22 trouble-free days afloat that summer
  • ✅ Now on a preventive maintenance plan (no more surprises)

Client Feedback

"I had no idea how to manage a project like this. Onyx handled everything—I just approved the quotes. The boat's been brilliant all season, and I finally understand what I own."

This project showcased our ability to stabilize a neglected vessel, coordinate efficient yard work, and set up new owners for long-term success.

Interested in comprehensive technical management? Get in touch to discuss your vessel.