Brisbane-based custom boatbuilder Norman R. Wright & Sons has completed a major refit of South Pacific II, which has now returned to the water and resumed her life cruising and mothershipping along the Queensland coast.
The handover celebrations aboard SPII reflected everything this much-loved vessel is known for, comfortable entertaining, timeless craftsmanship, and genuine camaraderie. With her solid timber construction, beech decks underfoot, and traditional varnished interiors, South Pacific II embodies the warmth and authenticity that can be hard to find in modern production vessels.
A Classic Reborn
Established in 1909, Norman R. Wright & Sons has been designing and building bespoke commercial and pleasure vessels for more than 115 years. From initial proposal through to launch, lifetime care, and refit, the Brisbane shipyard continues to deliver complete in-house solutions for owners seeking both tradition and innovation.
Following her extensive refit, South Pacific II wasted no time in heading north, with Skipper Jacob Oxlade sharing his impressions from the vessel’s return voyage.
“I am most impressed with the aesthetics and functionality we’ve gained from the works completed,” Oxlade said. “Past guests have commented on how stunning the new interior finishes are, while admiring that she has retained her classic, humble charm. The larger beds, generous bathroom and shower, and new internal stairs to the flybridge all add an extra element of comfort. The feedback from guests has been terrific.”
Performance and Handling
The refit included the installation of Humphree stabilisers, delivering a remarkable transformation in performance.
“Our first charter took us from Cooktown to Lizard Island in a 30-knot south-easterly, a perfect beam sea,” Oxlade explained. “It’s not something I ever thought I’d say about an old Norman Wright boat, but a beam sea is now my favourite! With the headsail assisting, she simply rides up and over the wave without rolling down the back, cruising comfortably at 11 knots. It truly defies belief.”
Guests who had previously experienced the vessel in similar conditions were astonished by the difference, noting the quieter operation of her Gardner diesels and overall smoother ride.
Efficiency and Engineering
Performance improvements extended to efficiency and onboard systems. On the delivery trip to Cairns, South Pacific II achieved 10.5 knots at just 25 litres per hour at 1350rpm, impressive numbers for a vessel of her size and pedigree.
The newly installed DC Mafi ventilation system has also enhanced onboard comfort and maintenance conditions.
“The engine room now runs as cool as the outside air,” Oxlade noted. “It’s incredible when carrying out checks during the day.”
A new freshwater-cooled air-conditioning system has proven equally successful, operating continuously with exceptional efficiency.
“We ditched 12 skin fittings and now achieve full cooling with only two hull penetrations,” he said. “It’s been a huge success.”
Structural improvements, including new ribs, have eliminated previous creaks and squeaks in heavy seas, further contributing to a sense of solidity and refinement.
Classic Charm, Modern Luxury
While any major refit comes with teething issues, Oxlade emphasised they were minimal and insignificant compared to the overall gains.
“We now have a product that’s true classic charm with modern luxury — a real credit to all involved,” he said.
Images courtesy of Coastwatch
For more information about Norman R Wight & Sons, visit their website HERE
Click below to view Coastwatch: SOUTH PACIFIC II – Episode 1 “The Birth of Beryl May”
Click below to view Coastwatch: SOUTH PACIFIC II – Episode 2 “The Passagemaking Gamefisher”
Click below to view Coastwatch: SOUTH PACIFIC II – Episode 3 “A Moreton Bay Classic”
