Your interests, every
step of the way
Accredited by the Superyacht Builders Association (SYBAss), we provide independent owner's representation and build management for new yacht projects worldwide. A new build is among the most significant undertakings in yacht ownership, and we ensure the process is managed with the same care and precision as the vessel itself.
Independent representation at every stage
A new build is one of the most significant undertakings in yacht ownership, and shipyards naturally operate in their own commercial interest. We provide continuous, independent oversight throughout the build, ensuring the owner's requirements are upheld from contract through to sea trials and delivery.
We count Captains, unlimited Chief Engineers, Surveyors and Naval Architects amongst our ranks, each with extensive build management experience across leading European and global shipyards. Their judgement is grounded in hands-on project delivery, not theory.
Foreland is entirely independent. We hold no yard affiliations, receive no commissions from shipyards or suppliers, and accept no referral fees. Every recommendation we make serves one interest alone: the owner.
Qualified Owner's Representatives
Our team holds the Yacht Owner's Representative qualification, formally recognised by SYBAss member shipyards as the standard for owner's representation during new build projects. This accreditation ensures that our representatives have the technical competence and professional standing expected by the world's leading yards.
The role of the Owner's Representative is to act as an independent advocate for the owner throughout the build process - monitoring progress, verifying quality, reviewing costs, and ensuring the shipyard delivers to the agreed specification. It is a position of trust, sitting between the owner and the yard, and requires both deep technical knowledge and commercial judgement.
Foreland Marine Consultancy is also a member of British Marine and Superyacht UK, reinforcing our commitment to the highest standards in the industry and championing British businesses.
Code of Conduct
As registered Owner's Representatives, we adhere to the Yacht Owner's Representative Register Code of Conduct. Its core principles:
Integrity & Objectivity
Act with honesty, fairness and objectivity. Present objective facts, avoid speculation, and seek balanced agreements.
Competence & Expertise
Full disclosure of qualifications and experience. Recognise the limits of expertise and seek additional support when required.
Owner's Interest
Protect the best interests of the owner while dealing fairly with all parties. Respect the industry ideal of completing and delivering yachts.
No Conflicts of Interest
Disclose known or potential conflicts. No commissions from multiple sources without full disclosure. No bribes or facilitation payments.
Respectful Collaboration
Optimise collaboration between all parties and resolve disputes professionally. Treat everyone with respect and courtesy.
The stages of a new build
Each project follows its own course, but the underlying framework remains consistent. We apply structured oversight at every phase, allowing the owner to focus on the decisions that shape the vessel.
Concept & Specification
3 to 12 months
Collaborative development of the project brief with the owner and design team. Reviewing initial concepts, establishing technical parameters, and defining the scope that will govern the entire build.
Yard Selection & Contract
1 to 3 months
Systematic evaluation of shipyards against capability, track record, capacity, and commercial terms. Supporting contract negotiation to ensure the owner's position is properly protected.
Build Oversight
12 to 48 months
Continuous on-site presence throughout the construction period. Attendance at production meetings, milestone inspections, financial tracking, and structured reporting to the owner.
Sea Trials & Delivery
1 to 3 months
Coordination of sea trials, commissioning of all onboard systems, management of handover documentation, and formal acceptance on behalf of the owner.
Warranty Period
12 to 24 months
Continued involvement post-delivery to monitor defect rectification, manage claims against the shipyard, and ensure all contractual obligations are fulfilled.
Scope of our involvement
On-Site Representation
Daily presence at the shipyard throughout the build period, attending production meetings, conducting inspections, and providing structured progress reports.
Budget & Cost Control
Monitoring expenditure against budget, verifying milestone payment claims, reviewing change orders, and identifying cost risks at the earliest opportunity.
Project Coordination
Managing communication between the owner, shipyard, design offices, subcontractors, and classification society to maintain alignment on scope, schedule, and quality.
Technical Review
Independent inspection of hull construction, structural work, systems installation, and outfitting quality, supported by our naval architects, engineers, and coatings specialists.
Crew & Commissioning
Crew recruitment and employment administration during the build phase, followed by coordination of sea trials, systems commissioning, and formal handover.
Warranty Management
Post-delivery oversight including defect tracking, claims management, and continued liaison with the shipyard throughout the warranty period.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an Owner's Representative do during a new build?+
When should I appoint an Owner's Representative?+
What qualifications should an Owner's Representative have?+
How long does a typical new build project take?+
Further Reading
Engage at any stage
Whether the project is at concept stage or construction is already underway, our team can integrate at any point and contribute from the outset.