Rod Twitchin Marine’s latest surveyor adventure: Surveying a 31-Metre CDM Superyacht in Sardinia
THE JOURNEY
The trip to Sardinia was a true testament to our commitment to the superyacht world, 32 hours from Brisbane, with layovers in Doha and Barcelona. Under a late-summer Mediterranean sky, Renee and I touched down in Olbia, ready to represent one of our high-networth Australian clients in the acquisition of a 31-metre Cantiere Delle Marche (CDM) explorer yacht.
This was no leisurely escape. It was a precision mission — a full pre-purchase survey of a steel-and-aluminium superyacht with a 240-tonne displacement and twin Caterpillar C18 main engines.
In our line of work, trust and integrity are as important as technical knowledge. At RTM, we take pride in bridging continents by leveraging trusted local expertise instead of relying on unfamiliar surveyors flown in from afar. Our approach ensures that every client receives unbiased, experienced representation from professionals who truly act in their best interest.
DAY ONE: FIRST IMPRESSIONS IN OLBIA
Morning broke over the marina at Olbia, where an impressive line-up of superyachts glittered under the Mediterranean sun. The American crew aboard our subject vessel were welcoming, providing invaluable local insight as we began our inspection.
Renee, with her meticulous eye for presentation and finish, focused on the interior and decks, while I assessed the vessel’s integrity, propulsion, and ancillary systems. True to CDM’s reputation, the yacht displayed exceptional craftsmanship — spacious lower decks, guest suites rivalling boutique hotels, a galley equipped with professional-grade appliances, and sophisticated redundancy across all major systems. We reviewed the vessel’s construction drawings, maintenance history, and operational records, mapping out a week-long audit schedule — including out-of-water inspections, sea trials, and technical reviews — all tailored to our client’s priorities.
“We don’t just survey; we advocate — translating complex technical data into meaningful guidance that protects our clients’ investments.”
DAY TWO: OUT OF THE WATER
The following morning took us north to the Olbia shipyard — a hub for refits and maintenance along Sardinia’s rugged coastline. Watching the 240-tonne yacht lifted clear of the water by the shipyard’s massive travel lift was impressive, even by superyacht standards.
Once safely cradled, we commenced a detailed outof- water inspection — methodically assessing the hull condition, underwater gear, skin fittings, and penetrations.
Each area was scrutinised for integrity and performance consistency, ensuring the vessel’s structure and systems met the highest standards of seaworthiness.
DAY THREE: SEA TRIALS OFF SARDINIA
Day Three was the highlight — a six-hour sea trial tracing the island’s stunning coastline. The vessel performed admirably through a full range of operational tests, confirming both her mechanical performance and seakeeping ability.
Anchored later in a sheltered bay, we continued our operational checks into the evening, evaluating systems under realistic conditions. By midnight, our findings were compiled into a formal report and shared directly with our client onboard, allowing real-time discussion with the owner’s representative. This immediate collaboration was invaluable — enabling clear, informed decision-making regarding the next steps in the acquisition process.
“Each mission like this reaffirms our role in the global superyacht industry: to uphold safety, integrity, and value in every transaction.”
DAY FOUR: THE RETURN HOME
Our final morning began with an early breakfast and strong Italian coffee before a tender ride back to the marina. From there, we commenced the long journey home via Rome and Dubai — tired, yet deeply satisfied.
Assignments like this remind us why we travel the world for our clients. Beyond the technical work, it’s about ensuring every vessel purchased is not only sound but represents a secure and confident investment in the owner’s yachting future.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Rod Twitchin is the founder and principal surveyor of Rod Twitchin Marine Pty Ltd, a Gold Coast based marine consultancy providing expert surveying, auditing, and refit management services worldwide. With decades of experience across commercial and luxury yachts, Rod and his wife Renee deliver trusted guidance to owners, insurers, and operators , ensuring safety, compliance, and value in every project.
www. rtmarine.com.au
Published in print January-March 2026
