Suhaili

First Solo Non-Stop Circumnavigation of the world.

Suhaili. The first solo non-stop circumnavigation of the world.

Coppercoat was selected for Suhaili’s restoration not just for its long protective attributes, but very importantly, due to its ability to flex without cracking as the vessel’s teak planking expanded and contacted in different environments.

Project + Year

  • 2016. Restoration of “Suhaili”, the wooden ketch that carried Sir Robin-Knox Johnson to complete the first solo non-stop circumnavigation of the world

Project Information

  • Sir Robin Knox Johnston is Britain’s most celebrated yachtsman. In 1969, he became the first person to circumnavigate the globe, single-handed, non-stop

  • With Sir Peter Blake, in 1994, he co-skippered the giant catamaran ENZA to win the Jules Verne Trophy for the fastest non-stop circumnavigation in 74 days

  • Suhaili was built by Indian carpenters in Bombay in 1963-1964 using traditional methods

Hull Substrate

  • 30mm thick, solid teak carvel planking

Coating Selection

  • Coppercoat Multi-Season Antifoul Coating

Selection Criteria

  • Two-part epoxy penetration and sealing of teak planking

  • Coating flexibility to manage plank and seam movement without cracking.

  • Non-porous versus porosity of ablative antifouling paint

  • Hull substrate protection and biofouling prevention for ten or more years

  • Very low maintenance requirements

  • Cost savings from Year 2, then for every year for eight or more years with no haul-out and re-paint costs

  • Environmental responsibility

Coatings Performance

  • Seven years after the restoration, Coppercoat has met all criteria that led to its selection ahead of major brand antifouling paints

Performance + Cost Analytics

HullWell’s refined software delivers key information that facilitates accurate decision-making involving underwater surfaces performance and protection.

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Project Management

Hullwell safely advances projects through preparation, application and maintenance.

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