More and more shipyards and nautical builders are incorporating marine foam as standard in their new builds. We analyse the technical, economic and market reasons behind this shift.
Until a few years ago, natural teak was the reference material for mid-to-high-range shipyards. However, the sector is experiencing a quiet but consistent shift towards marine foam decking. The reasons are multiple and affect every layer of the production process.
1. Reduction in production costs
Installing a natural teak deck in a shipyard requires specialist carpenters, considerable work time and high-cost materials. Marine foam is installed with much less skilled labour, reduces production times by up to 60% and allows the process to be standardised for series production.
2. Competitive price advantage
A new boat with a premium foam deck can be offered at a notably more competitive price than the teak equivalent, while maintaining the same perception of luxury and quality. This widens the model's potential market without compromising brand positioning.
3. End customer demand
Buyers of new boats are increasingly aware of long-term maintenance costs. The 10-year warranty and zero maintenance are powerful sales arguments that shipyards incorporate into their marketing materials. The sustainability argument (no tropical teak logging) also adds value.
4. Customisation as a differentiator
With 12 patterns and 11 standard colours, plus custom Pantone, each model can have its own unique deck identity. Some shipyards incorporate their logo cut into the foam as an exclusive branding element that reinforces the perception of quality and attention to detail.
5. Simplified logistics
Foam pieces arrive at the shipyard numbered and ready to install, directly from the model's plans. Once the model is digitised, repeat orders are immediate and require no new design. The supply chain is simple, predictable and hassle-free.