Planning a Superyacht Galley Refit: Timeline, Scope and Budget

When to Refit vs When to Replace

The decision to refit the galley rather than replace individual items of equipment is typically driven by one of three factors: the equipment has reached end of reliable service life across multiple categories simultaneously; the vessel is changing charter programme or ownership and the galley needs to match a new culinary standard; or a structural change to the vessel creates the opportunity to redesign the galley footprint.

A refit is not necessarily a complete replacement. A partial refit — replacing the cooking suite while retaining the refrigeration — is often the most cost-effective approach, particularly where refrigeration is relatively recent and performing well.

Phase 1: Condition Assessment

Before scoping a refit, conduct a systematic condition assessment of the existing galley. For each major piece of equipment: record the age, service history, current condition and any known faults. Compare against the manufacturer's recommended service life — most professional catering equipment has a reliable service life of 10–15 years with correct maintenance.

The condition assessment should be conducted by or with a specialist who can assess marine galley equipment realistically — not just against the manufacturer's service data but against the actual conditions the vessel operates in.

Phase 2: Define the Brief

The refit brief answers three questions: What does the galley need to be able to do that it cannot currently do? What are the constraints — footprint, services, budget, programme? What is the target completion date and what is the operational constraint (lay-up window, sale timeline, charter season)?

Phase 3: Develop the Specification

With the brief confirmed, develop a detailed equipment specification. For each item: category, brand and model preference, dimensions, power requirement, special features required. The specification becomes the basis for competitive quotation and is the reference document for the entire project.

Phase 4: Programme Management

Galley refit programme management involves coordinating: equipment lead times (often 4–12 weeks for specialist items), yard availability and programme, services installation by the yard's engineers, equipment delivery logistics and commissioning scheduling.

The programme is only as strong as its longest lead time item. Identify your longest lead time item on day one of planning and build the programme backward from its delivery date.