Piers Wilson has been honoured with the inaugural Superyacht UK Lifetime Achievement award, presented at the CWM FX London Boat Show 2015. This new prize has been introduced to honour those who have made an outstanding lifetime contribution to the superyacht sector and, in particular, the aims as well as objectives of Superyacht UK (SYUK). The recipient is chosen by past and present Chairmen of SYUK.
Piers Wilson receives inaugural Superyacht UK Lifetime Achievement Award - Photo credit to onEdition 2015
Piers’ started his career in the marine industry as Production Manager at Camper & Nicholson’s Northern Yard. He then went on to establish Southampton Yacht Services in 1980 at Shamrock Quay with John Dean. Classic yachts are very close to his heart and he soon secured projects such as Ticonderoga (Herreshoff), sailing yacht Belle Adventure (Fife), sailing yacht Altair and the J-Class superyacht Velsheda. Piers has also been heavily involved with 45m motor yacht refits, racing yachts such as charter yacht Mari Cha and has worked with Vosper Thornycroft and Pendennis on numerous projects.
SYUK Chairman Mike Carr said: “Piers is a charming and enthusiastic man, who has great respect and following amongst his employees as well as industry colleagues. He is without doubt a true pillar of the UK superyacht sector and a worthy recipient of this lifetime achievement award.”
On receiving the award Piers added: “This award has come as a complete surprise to me and I am delighted to accept it. I have been very aware of the importance of Superyacht UK in promoting British companies’ interests in the marine market and I am honoured that my friends and colleagues have chosen me to be the recipient.
“I opted to change careers from the automotive to the marine industry forty five years ago and I can honestly say that I have never regretted that decision. The combination of technical challenges, commercial considerations, employment of highly skilled craftsmen and meeting extraordinary owners has ensured a fascinating career.”
The award was presented to Piers at the annual Superyacht UK (SYUK) Technical Seminar on Thursday 15 January 2015.
