The global marine industry has joined forces to restore SY Owl, a 117-year-old, 20-metre classic sailing yacht rescued from a beach in Mallorca.
Earlier this year, the Edwardian yacht broke free from her mooring during a January storm. She eventually came to rest on the sands of Palma Nova.
Fortunately, Jim Passmore, co-founder of superyacht management company 8 Yachts, spotted the stranded yacht. He quickly launched a rescue mission to save an important piece of maritime history.
“I managed to contact the owner, who explained that with the tourist season starting, he’d been given just 48 hours by the council to come up with a plan. Otherwise, the diggers would move in and break her up for disposal,” said Passmore.
Complex Rescue Required Careful Planning
After gaining the owner’s approval, Passmore contacted Ocean Divers in Palma and appointed marine surveyor Felix Bussmann.
The initial inspection revealed only limited hull damage. That encouraging result allowed the rescue team to develop a recovery strategy.
“That’s where it got complicated. Step one was to get the boat off the beach. Step two was to keep her afloat. Step three was to move her somewhere she could be lifted out. Step four was completing the lift. Step five was finding somewhere to store her. We couldn’t start until we had a solution for the final step,” Passmore explained.
Industry Support Makes the Impossible Possible
STP Shipyard Palma agreed to lift Owl from the water. However, the yard had no available storage space.
The President of the Port Authority then stepped in. He authorised the yacht’s temporary relocation to a nearby Port Authority dock, allowing the rescue to continue.
The operation presented significant challenges. Owl rested in only 70 centimetres of water despite drawing 2.3 metres.
Rescuers secured lines to the bow and stern before gently rocking the yacht free. They then placed flotation bags beneath the keel.
Eight salvage specialists, two dive boats, two large anchors and specialist recovery equipment completed the successful operation.
Sailing Community Rallies Behind Owl
Owl previously operated as a charter yacht from Port Andratx. As a result, many sailors across Mallorca recognised the historic vessel.
Passmore’s appeal for help generated an overwhelming response from across the marine sector.
“The enthusiasm shown by the sailing community in Mallorca has been incredible. Even more notable is the offer of products, services and financial support to help restore this yacht to her former glory,” said Passmore.
AkzoNobel Support
Global yacht coatings specialist AkzoNobel has become a major supporter of the restoration.
The company completed a detailed technical survey before specifying a full protective coatings system from its International® range.
The donated products include Micron 99® antifouling for the underwater hull and Toplac Plus for the topsides.
Together, the coatings will protect Owl above and below the waterline while delivering a durable, high-gloss finish.
The restoration is currently underway at STP Shipyard Palma. Afterwards, Owl will move to Pendennis Vilanova, where specialists will restore her interior varnish finishes.
Why SY Owl Matters
SY Owl ranks among the last surviving yachts from Britain’s Edwardian sailing era.
Designer Frederick Shepherd created the yacht, while the White Brothers of Southampton built her in 1909.
During her remarkable life, Owl has survived two world wars, crossed the Atlantic and competed in races.
At one point, thieves stole the yacht. She later reappeared in New Caledonia without her mast.
What’s Next for SY Owl?
Passmore continues to explore long-term options for Owl’s future.
He hopes to find either a dedicated owner willing to complete the restoration or a consortium of marine businesses and private supporters prepared to preserve this rare piece of yachting heritage.
With growing industry backing and expert involvement, Owl’s extraordinary story appears far from over.
