Pacific PowerBoat Magazine is excited to continue our series on the build process of the Bill Upfold-designed Elite 22M Flybridge Motor Yacht. Currently under construction at Weber Marine in Gulf Harbour, Auckland, this journey takes us from initial concept discussions with the owner to its on-water launch and culminates in a detailed review scheduled for late 2026.
The Hull
With the Glass/Foam/Glass hull now forming the outer skin, the now-formed hull is ready for fairing.Micro balloons (the faring compound) are then added to the hull topsides at approximately 3mm in thickness. This is in preparation to give the best finish, removing any opportunity for print-through from the fiberglass cloth beneath.
This 22-meter masterpiece combines cutting-edge engineering with bespoke luxury. Constructed using epoxy resin, E-glass, and a PVC foam core over a male mold, the yacht promises to be both weight conservative and robust.
The design includes four staterooms:
A full-beam master suite amidships.
A VIP stateroom forward.
Two twin guest cabins, all featuring ensuite bathrooms.
L: The dulled-down maroon color comes as a result of the many, many hours of machine and longboard sanding. R: Within the hull shell, the frames are still in place to brace, keeping the hull stiff and supported.L: With the hull exterior almost complete, it is time for the removal of the frames, allowing the glass taping of the structural components (ie, longitudinal girders) to the hull shell. R: Next to be fixed are additional structure bracing and components, such as the rudder shelf and strut base structures, along with the integral fuel tank baffles and forward bulkhead.
The Deck
Meanwhile, in another shed, work on the cabin deck is continued, with the cockpit sole in place, and work continues on the side decks and bulwarks.Horizontal frame add-ons are added to the top to create the top of the cabin deck mold (glass/foam/glass) - as with the hull construction. This will later be removed.The cabin and inner skin is added over the temporary frames, in preparation for the glass/foam/glass construction process.
Stay tuned as we continue to follow this innovative build and provide updates on the progress of this exceptional vessel.
