Florida Contractor Sues Motor Yacht Planet Nine in Maritime Lien Dispute Over Unpaid Galley Renovations
O.P. Yacht Services Corp., a marine contractor based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, has filed an in rem maritime action against the motor yacht Planet Nine in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida. The lawsuit, docketed under Case Number 0:26-cv-62570-AHS before District Judge Raag Singhal, seeks to foreclose a statutory maritime lien of ninety-four thousand dollars for custom carpentry, interior refitting, and specialized refurbishment services performed aboard the luxury vessel.
Fort Lauderdale Marine Specialist Furnishes Extensive Luxury Galley Renovations and Custom Cabinetry on Superyacht
According to the verified complaint filed in federal admiralty court, O.P. Yacht Services Corp. provided skilled marine labor and high-grade materials to improve and preserve the vessel. Planet Nine is an imposing 72.15-meter luxury expedition motor yacht constructed by Admiral in 2018 and registered in the Cayman Islands under official number 754473. The vessel is owned by Spirito Vitale Limited, which acted through a network of designated representatives, project supervisors, and authorized agents to coordinate extensive interior upgrades.
The plaintiff company asserts that it was engaged directly by vessel ownership and its representatives to carry out a comprehensive overhaul of the superyacht galley. The project scope encompassed redesigning and renovating the vessel food service areas, replacing floor installations, building and fitting custom cabinetry, mounting overhead headliners, and securing marine galley appliances to ensure safe operation while underway. The contractor maintains that every aspect of the labor and material met the highest standards of marine craftsmanship and was provided at fair and reasonable market rates.
Superyacht Ownership Accused of Defaulting on Invoiced Necessaries Despite Demands for Payment
Under federal maritime jurisprudence, supplies, repairs, and refit services provided to a commercial or private vessel are classified as necessaries because they are indispensable for maintaining, operating, and preserving the craft. The complaint states that the renovation services furnished by O.P. Yacht Services Corp. were essential to keep the vessel seaworthy, properly functioning, and fit for ongoing voyages.
Following the successful completion of the shipyard work, the contractor submitted a detailed invoice to the owner of the motor yacht. The billing terms specified that full payment was due immediately upon delivery of the statement. Although ownership acknowledged receipt of the invoice, the contractor claims that representatives have repeatedly refused to tender payment, leaving the entire ninety-four thousand dollar balance unpaid.
Contractor Asserts Maritime Lien Foreclosure Under Federal Law to Force Judicial Sale of Planet Nine
Faced with ongoing nonpayment, O.P. Yacht Services Corp. initiated an in rem proceeding targeting the yacht itself, alongside its engines, tackle, machinery, furnishings, and appurtenances. Bringing the action pursuant to Title 46 of the United States Code, Section 31342, the contractor claims an automatic, enforceable maritime lien for necessaries against the hull and equipment.
Invoking Rule C of the Supplemental Rules for Certain Admiralty and Maritime Claims, the plaintiff asks the court to validate its maritime lien, issue an order of process against the vessel, and permit a judicial foreclosure sale if the debt remains unsatisfied. Under such a decree, the yacht would be condemned and sold at public auction under the direction of the court, with the plaintiff permitted to bid the amount of its lien credit. The contractor also seeks statutory prejudgment interest, court costs, and related maritime relief.
Contact an Experienced Maritime Lien and Cruise Ship Litigation Lawyer Today
Maritime law provides distinct and powerful legal mechanisms to enforce obligations, protect vessels, and safeguard individuals who suffer financial harm or bodily injuries on navigable waters. Whether a case involves admiralty lien foreclosure, commercial vessel disputes, passenger slip and fall injuries, or severe offshore accidents, navigating federal maritime statutes requires prompt action and seasoned legal counsel. If you need dedicated guidance on admiralty claims, personal injury aboard cruise liners, or maritime contract enforcement, speak with an experienced maritime attorney to safeguard your rights and explore your legal options.
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Disclaimer: Our firm does not represent the plaintiff in this case and is not involved in the litigation. The information provided is a summary of allegations based on publicly available court filings. We make no representations about the truth of these allegations, are not commenting on the merits of the case, and are not predicting any outcome.
