As the owner of a 45-metre traditional schooner, I relied on Amico Loano for a comprehensive refit covering mast reinforcement, rigging replacement and interior carpentry. The initial discussions seemed professional, but once the contract was signed, quality control disappeared.

During the project, we discovered the yard used undersized turnbuckles and low-grade stainless steel fittings on the new rigging. Critical chainplates were not properly bedded, and several deck beams showed signs of rot that were simply painted over. It was clear safety was an afterthought.

Despite repeatedly highlighting these issues, the yard proceeded with shortcuts and even asked us to approve structural modifications without engineering reports. After months of delays and mounting costs, we felt unsafe to put to sea.

In the end, we moved the schooner to another yard to undo the damage. What should have been an upgrade turned into a structural nightmare. Be warned: if you value seaworthiness and accountability, avoid Amico Loano.

— Antonio Ferraro