Testiminials - Baobab Marine Fiji

The 90 meter three masted schooner 'Athena' spent several months in the beautiful waters of Fiji during 2010. She cruised far and wide in the group and the widely travelled owners rated one of their finest cruises to date. So did the crew! Operating a large vessel such as ours in remote locations is never a simple task and there are many logistical challenges to overcome. We firmly believe that the team at Baobab Marine gave us the necessary back up, local knowledge, and above all the commitment to see things done correctly and done promptly. In an area known for its relaxed 'island time' pace it was nice to see that things could happen quickly when required. We had some mechanical issues with our tenders when away from the main centres and Michelle and Brian and their team were instrumental in sourcing the necessary spares and arranging their transport to a remote reef in the Lomaiviti Group. We eat well onboard 'Athena' and Dee competently liaised with our chefs to ensure fresh produce reached the ship when required. She also advised us on the various attractions and entertainments available in the villages. As a superyacht destination, the Fijian Islands have now been discovered and should you ever want to experience a little slice of the south Pacific paradise then you would be hard pressed to find a better shore support crew than Baobab Marine. Vinaka Vaka Levu! Max Cumming Master ATHENA Captain Max Cumming ATHENA

Aquila sunk 80 miles west of New Caledonia on 12/11/2010 at 2230 hours. The cause? The primary bilge pump failed to work as the water poured in through that piece of hose on the shaft that Nabib replaced. Because the water level was above the batteries, I was unable to hook up the secondary pump. It happened late at night. I had to literally hold my head under water to try to put new hose clamps back on, because you see there remained only one on the hose. I know that you put a total of 4 on, so I wonder how in the world three came off in only 3 weeks after the repair. Could it be that you are incapable of doing a repair in two tries? I was unable to stop the flow of incoming water. Lorenzo did you mention to Brian that your crew left the pieces of 2x4 in the bilge? Probably not, and you need to be aware that when the water did rise above the floorboards two more pieces of 2x4 and one wooden wedge floated up. What is with you guys? Is is that you just don't care? stupid? or because I am American and you and your crew are all Muslim and are trying to destroy and kill everything American? You may have tried but I am still alive. I hope you all experience a major setback in your lives very soon." M. Rafferty S/V Aquila Baobab Marine Comments: The loss of Aquila is an unfortunate and distressing event for all concerned. The owner details his experience with BM on some cruising forums. After reviewing his statements we can fairly say there are inaccuracies throughout, it is biased in opinion and not entirely truthful. Members of our team were not impressed with the state of the yacht's engine compartment and bilge and it was evident the owner did not pay good attention to his boat. Aquila sailed from Fiji to New Caledonia where the owner spent some time. There are many obvious questions to ponder.

I am writing to express my thanks and appreciation to the management and staff for the excellent and professional service provided to me - in times of need - over the past two years. A hallmark of a good business is their ability to turn a client's problem in to a happy solution, and to do so in a helpful and pleasant manner - this you have invariably done. The quality of the work has been excellent and the manner of your staff courteous, cheerful and helpful. This service is a reflection of the excellent leadership of your company and deserves special praise. While not wishing to overlook a single member of the team, I wish to thank Brian and Lorenzo especially for their care and concern despite the many challenges that exist in running such a diverse and demanding business...to use a naval expression, Bravo Zulu Well Done. B. Noffke S/V Reprise

Just a short note to thank you for doing such a fine job for the "Lady D" and the crew... Owner M/V Lady D

...For those folks who are considering having some boat work done I will give Baobab Marine at Vuda Point a high recommendation. Brian Smith, the owner, runs a meticulous operation. His shop is a first class organization and his people are very good and have a great attitude....the engine installation was as good as I might expect from KKMI near San Francisco or Windward Yacht Services in LA which I consider to be two very good yards... Bill Wickman S/V Air Stream

During the 30 years we have been operating our resort business in Fiji, it was always very difficult to find any reliable and competent trades people to work on our boats. This all changed when Baobab Marine set up business. We enjoy and appreciate the high standard of work from professionals who understand the marine business... Navini Island Resort Fiji

...By this small mail we wish to show our gratitude. During our trip which started in France we have had to make some repairs on the boat in different places. Our experience with Baobab Marine at Vuda was excellent, even the best. We were surprised to find on an island in the middle of the Pacific a company with many equipment and skills under one roof. In addition your team is very friendly and happy and obviously very proud to work for the company. Certainly because you were sailors yourself you understand what sailors need and dream to find... Patrick & Fabrice S/V Sarama

S/V Aldebaran arrived in Vuda Marina in August of 2007 with a long list of boat repairs and a major time constraint. It was with great pleasure that we were introduced to the gentlemen at Baobab Marine who were so proficient and punctual that all major repairs were completed ahead of schedule and to exceptional quality standards, including a last minute bronze brazing job when an essential water manifold became damaged and began leaking less than 24 hours before the slated departure. This reference was written without their knowledge or consent, and I hope that it will encourage them to maintain their professionalism in providing services to the marine industry. Although I expect they have no trouble attracting business, I also hope that this message will point traveling yachts in need of repairs in the right direction. When you are circumnavigating the globe by sailboat, you develop an eye for outstanding marine services and how valuable they are. Baobab has our complete endorsement, and we look forward to doing business with them on our next time around. C Aaron Lasher S/V Aldebaran

Just a quick update - after your work on our shaky transmission and dodgy depth transducer we had an excellent few weeks cruising to Savusavu, Vanuabalavu and on down through the southern Lau to Fulaga, then a strenuous 12 day passage against stiff southerlies back to Opua. The depth transducer arrangement is still going strong. Thanks to you and to George for your excellent service while we were at Vuda. We have passed the word on! Dave & Ruth S/V Islay of Lorn

...My best to all the crew that worked so well on Ken-B. Your boat services are as good and better than anything I have encountered over the last seven years of cruising from the Chesapeake to Fiji. Ken Bradley S/V Ken-B

Hi Brian, we are now in Opua, New Zealand. Everything you did by way of repairs and modification to the boat has performed well. Thank you for a good job. Tom Dameron Mariner IV

Baobab industries were involved in several projects aboard Bel'mare, including the replacement of damaged teak on the aft deck, installation of strong points in the deck to accommodate pad-eyes, paint touch ups and some stainless steel fabrication. The work was carried out in a professional manner to a high standard within tight time restrictions. Brian was constantly aware of progress on-board and managed his team well to complete daily work lists. I have no hesitation recommending Baobab industries as a reliable and efficient maritime support company. Mark Phelps M/V Bel'Mare