

Monte Carlo, Monaco – Spain is strengthening its position on the global superyacht service map with the certification of the world’s largest yacht-dedicated shiplift at VMG Astilleros de Sagunto.
Presented by Lloyd’s Register (LR) at the Monaco Yacht Show 2026, the certification recognises the capabilities of the 5,000-tonne facility, which is designed to accommodate some of the largest and most technically demanding yachts currently operating worldwide.
Classified by Lloyd’s Register in April 2026, the shiplift represents a major addition to Spain’s superyacht infrastructure, providing the capacity to handle large-scale refit, repair and maintenance programmes while supporting yachts throughout their operational lifecycles.
A new benchmark for large-yacht infrastructure
Located in Sagunto, Spain, the facility features a 102-metre-long and 22-metre-wide platform, making it the largest shiplift of its kind dedicated specifically to yachts.
Once lifted, yachts are transported to land-level repair berths across an impressive 76,800-square-metre hard-standing area using self-propelled modular transporters (SPMTs). The technology provides enhanced manoeuvrability and precision, enabling large yachts to be positioned with greater flexibility than traditional bogie-based systems.
For yacht owners, captains and managers, the facility adds significant capacity for major refit and maintenance projects without compromising the specialist requirements associated with large and complex vessels.
Lloyd’s Register’s classification independently verifies that the shiplift complies with its Regulations for Lifting Appliances in a Marine Environment, providing an internationally recognised benchmark for safety, reliability and operational integrity.
Supporting the next generation of superyacht refit
The certification comes as the global superyacht fleet continues to grow in both size and complexity. As more large yachts enter service, the demand for specialised facilities capable of accommodating extensive refit, repair and maintenance programmes is increasing.
VMG Astilleros de Sagunto is positioning its facility to meet that demand and establish Sagunto as a major mainland Spanish destination for the superyacht sector.
The shipyard’s ambitions were further reinforced earlier this year when VMG Astilleros de Sagunto and Astilleros de Mallorca announced a strategic partnership to develop a new mainland Spain centre dedicated to superyacht refit and maintenance, with capabilities extending to yachts of more than 75 metres.
The latest certification adds another significant milestone to that strategy, strengthening the infrastructure available to owners seeking specialist support in the Mediterranean.
Lloyd’s Register: specialist infrastructure is becoming increasingly important
Engel-Jan de Boer, Global Yacht Segment Director at Lloyd’s Register, said: “As the global fleet of large yachts continues to evolve, access to specialist refit infrastructure is becoming increasingly important”.
“Facilities such as VMG’s provide the capacity needed to support some of the largest yachts in operation today while helping owners maintain safety, reliability and performance throughout a vessel’s lifecycle”.
“This classification demonstrates VMG’s commitment to recognised international standards and strengthens the Mediterranean’s position as a leading centre for superyacht maintenance, refit and lifecycle support.”
Miquel Lliteras, Managing Director of VMG Astilleros de Sagunto, said: “This recognition reinforces VMG Astilleros de Sagunto’s commitment to professional standards in the superyacht refit and repair sector.
“It provides owners, captains and yacht managers with additional confidence in our processes and capabilities, reflecting our dedication to quality, technical expertise and continuous improvement.”
With its combination of lifting capacity, extensive land-based facilities and specialised transport technology, VMG Astilleros de Sagunto’s new shiplift represents a significant expansion of the infrastructure available to the world’s largest yachts — further positioning Spain as an increasingly important destination for superyacht refit, repair and lifecycle services in the Mediterranean.
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