Mirabella V – Joe Vittoria’s 245ft superyacht – has arrived back to her builder, VT Shipbuilding in Portsmouth, following a comfortable voyage from the Mediterranean, for repairs to her lift keel mechanism.

The 75 metre (245 foot) composite sloop went aground near Cap Ferrat following her 600 kg anchor dragging in a freshening breeze see previous news story here . Divers were sent down to examine the hull and keel during and immediately after the grounding. Once the keel was raised 70cm on her own ram, the yacht floated free. Mirabella V then motored to La Ciotat shipyard where she was further examined by yard personnel, representatives of VT Shipbuilding, and surveyors from the classification society, V Ships and MCA.

Contrary to the various comments which appeared in the media, the hull and rig are undamaged. The sacrificial tip on one rudder needs to be replaced and the lift keel mechanism needs to be repaired.

‘Mirabella V was already scheduled by VT Shipbuilding to undergo a warranty and maintenance programme before departing for the Caribbean’ commented the owner Joseph V. Vittoria. ‘Therefore the decision was made to have the yacht return to Portsmouth and have the keel removed for comprehensive inspection and repaired whilst the warranty and maintenance programme is under way.

Mirabella V is expected to commence her Caribbean season with her owners spending the New Year on board.