fbpx

Maintenance Cost-Reductions of Over 5%; How This Nordhavn Owner Did It

Bob Breen wanted a better way to maintain his Nordhavn. Read his journey on how he achieved self-sufficiency through the power of technology.

Top 3 Benefits

  • Self-Sufficient Maintenance: Bob maintains 95% of his boat himself, and using Vessel Vanguard has helped him understand his vessel through digital documents, step-by-step procedures, and maintenance checklists.

  • Cost-Reductions: Bob’s maintenance costs have been reduced by over 5%.

  • Emergency Preparedness: Vessel Vanguard helps Bob ensure what he needs is onboard in the case of any near-shore or offshore emergencies.

Vessel Vanguard took the mystery away for me about the proper steps to maintain our boat... It is the angel on my shoulder making sure we’re prepared for our next adventure.”

New Boat, Complex Systems

In 2018, Bob Breen embarked on a significant transition from sailboats to motor yachts with the acquisition of his first vessel, the 2009 Nordhavn 43 trawler named Indiscretion. This full-displacement yacht, designed for extensive ocean voyages, features a dedicated pilothouse, an open flybridge, and is powered by a Lugger 1066T 165 HP diesel engine, complemented by a backup Yanmar 3YM “wing” engine. Indiscretion boasts over 1,300 gallons (approximately 4921.03 L) of fuel, providing the capability to travel from Seattle to Hawaii without refueling—a dream come true for Bob. 

Additionally, the boat came equipped with four file boxes of operation and maintenance manuals, presenting a daunting task for Bob, who lacked significant mechanical experience. Despite being a finance professional, he diligently created a spreadsheet maintenance log to manage the boat’s complex systems. However, three weeks into this laborious process, an email from Vessel Vanguard Technologies interrupted his manual efforts. 

Alerts, Hints, and Peace of Mind

The previous owner had implemented Vessel Vanguard’s cloud-based maintenance tracking software on Indiscretion, tailored to the yacht’s specific configuration. The Vessel Vanguard team meticulously documented every piece of equipment on the boat, automating operating manuals, maintenance schedules, logs, and recommended spare parts for both coastal and offshore cruising.

Upon a thorough walkthrough of the system capabilities, Bob was pleasantly surprised. The online accessibility of every manual, coupled with clear extraction of boat-specific requirements, made Vessel Vanguard a proactive and invaluable tool. The system presented a structured list of tasks, providing Bob with a streamlined approach to managing the yacht’s maintenance.

Empowering Self-Sufficiency

Bob proudly attests that 95% of the maintenance work has been accomplished with his efforts, facilitated by Vessel Vanguard. The maintenance alert system, functioning as an organized to-do list, offers recommended tasks based on time or engine hours, accompanied by helpful hints, required parts, and links to detailed instructions. This feature has become a favorite for Bob, aligning well with his systematic approach.   

The financial advantages are evident, with Bob estimating a maintenance cost below 5%, significantly less than the typical 10% for outsourced services. Vessel Vanguard demystifies trawler maintenance, acting as a virtual guide that directs Bob on what needs to be done and how to do it. 

Moreover, Vessel Vanguard’s recommendations for tools and spare parts have proven beneficial, ensuring that Bob is well-prepared for both near-shore and offshore operations. The system even aids in recommending storage locations on the boat, eliminating the challenge of locating items in its vast expanse.   

Having the right spare parts on hand has already proven crucial in situations like a blown fuse, where adherence to Vessel Vanguard’s recommendations prevented potential setbacks. Despite the initial presence of four boxes of manuals on board, Bob confidently states that Vessel Vanguard has become his “angel on the shoulder,” ensuring preparedness for every upcoming adventure. 

About Vessel Vanguard

Vessel Vanguard, a leading marine safety and maintenance software provider, is dedicated to revolutionizing the maritime industry. Committed to innovation, we deliver solutions to streamline operations and enhance vessel performance. Our proactive maintenance approach reduces downtime, ensures warranty compliance, schedules preventive maintenance, and keeps parts ready. Protect yourself, your crew, your operation, and asset value with Vessel Vanguard. 

To learn more, schedule a demo today at www.vesselvanguard.com/demo

Latest Industry Insights

solar-panels-on-yacht

Embracing E-Boating Efficiencies

Eyeing an electric boat but not quite ready to take the plunge? Here are some ways ...
Yacht charging and fueling up.

Boat Fuel Systems

At the spring boat shows, as you’re looking at new boat models, ask about the fuel ...
future-of-boating

The Future of Boats & Boating

BoatUS Magazine editors predict what recreational vessels — and boating in general — will look like ...
Yacht Navigation Light Inspection

Yacht Navigation Light Inspection

I’ve never understood why so many vessels I inspect as a marine surveyor fail in their ...

View All of Our Industry Insights

Navigate maritime with the latest news, practical how-to guides, insightful analyses and more.

Receive A Quote In Minutes!