Editor’s Note: The Mirage Effect

　　This week marked the return of our glorious summer sun, which seemed to take a few days of rest over the weekend in the UK. However, it looks to be back and this week will see temperatures north of 30C in Europe.

　　When the weather is like this, the place most people want to be is close to the sea enjoying an ice-cold beverage or an ice cream. However, for those lucky enough to own or charter a yacht, the warm weather provides the perfect condition to explore new coastlines and oceans.

　　One such vessel perfect for the job is the recently refitted 106m Dream. Taking longer than most to return to the seas, as we explained earlier in the week, it is welcomed news to see a project that began 10 years ago is now being enjoyed by her owner. One of the worst-case scenarios for any project is one that begins but never finishes, absorbing money, time and effort from numerous players only to end up with something incomplete. In the case of Dream, however, it is a success story despite a few shaky moments.

　　Motoryacht Victoria had a similar story having begun construction in 2006. However, a number of events would see the 71m being launched earlier this year, making the project more than 12 years old as the superyacht has yet to be delivered. That said, it is nearing the finish line but there are examples of projects that have either begun and not finished or that have the potential to become great again but require a new lease of life. The fate of these projects often goes unreported and becomes designated as dormant or on hold in databases. However, in the right circumstances and with the right team, they can become special gems and offer something a little different to the new build route.