AMERICAN HERITAGE

May 15, 2025
Refit Projects
- Tags: Interior Design, Refit
Bonville Nears Completion of a Refit Aboard the M/Y Summerdance, Marking a New Chapter for the Classic 146’ Trinity Yacht
Following on the legacy of our Founder, one of our design passions lies in breathing new life into yachts of distinction. Our latest project is a testament to that mission: a full-scale refit of the iconic 146-foot Trinity motor yacht Summerdance. Launched during the U.S. big-boat-building boom of the early and mid 2000s, this all-aluminum semi-displacement yacht hit the water in 2004 as Bacchus. Today, over two decades and multiple owners later, the classic tri-deck beauty is nearing completion of a meticulous transformation that honors her heritage while introducing a refined, modern sensibility that is both timeless and future-focused.

The experienced owners are repeat Bonville Associates clients and have owned multiple Trinity-built vessels over the years. With a strong appreciation for American craftsmanship and a personal connection to the Trinity brand, they were immediately drawn to Summerdance (known more recently as Second Love) for her timeless design and robust build quality. When the opportunity arose to acquire her, they knew they wanted to restore her grandeur, and at the same time personalize her for both family use and selective charter.

Originally planned as a four-month project, the scope of the refit expanded to six months to reflect the owners’ evolving vision, with completion now estimated for mid June, 2025.
A TRANSITIONAL VISION
Aesthetically, the vision for Summerdance is a Transitional design, one that underscores the elegance and detailing of the traditional mahogany-rich interior that defined Trinity yachts of the early 2000s yet is enhanced with updated features and cleaner lines.
“We’re not erasing her past,” says Lauren. “We’re celebrating her heritage while imbuing a fresh perspective that is unmistakably timeless.”

Ornate elements like the original carved bedpost finials in the guest staterooms and the wrought-iron banister detailing are being thoughtfully removed to bring the interior aesthetic forward by a few decades.

LAUREN BONVILLE
“We’re not erasing her past, we’re celebrating her heritage while imbuing a fresh perspective that is unmistakably timeless.”
Key elements of the interior refit include new flooring, new cabinetry, new furnishings, soft goods, wall coverings, and lighting. The stonework throughout the vessel is being replaced with bespoke selections that reflect the owner’s sophisticated, warm palette, and the woodwork is receiving extensive refinishing in both stain and paint. The ceiling coffers, a hallmark of the yacht’s grandeur, are being carefully re-trimmed to align with the Transitional update.

New built-ins either replace original or add to the setting, such as the new custom bed and new nightstands in the master stateroom, new cabinetry in the master foyer, and the two new cabinets in the main salon housing lift-up televisions. Within the his-and-hers master bath, we also designed a closet for her bath.

The original build featured a canvas map on the ceiling of the skylounge, which we have replaced with an overhead treatment that complements the bar in this space. The original wine cooler is also being replaced with new cabinetry that we designed to look authentically integrated with the yacht’s design, while the original stained-glass bar doors are making way for sleek wooden replacements that lend the space a more modern, tailored appeal.

BEHIND THE BULKHEADS
The refit of Summerdance is more than skin deep. From upgraded wiring and smart systems to new galley equipment, all new plumbing, and an optimized air-conditioning system, every aspect is being fine-tuned for modern performance and comfort. The yacht already boasted a full suite of upgrades over the past decade, including a 4G WiFi system, monitoring system enhancements, and continuous maintenance of her engines. These existing features are being integrated into a broader vision of efficiency and usability, ideal for both private cruising and charter.

AN EXTERIOR REVIVED
On the exterior, one of the most useful modifications was already in place: a four-foot swim platform extension, which was added in a prior refit. Outfitted with a custom shower and built-in swim stairs, Summerdance is equally fun and sporty on her exterior as she is comfortable and elegant within.

Great care has been given to the sun deck, where we have added all new countertops, sunpads, furniture, upholstery, and barstools that complement the day head, Jacuzzi, and bar area.
LEGACY MEETS LIFESTYLE
Summerdance offers a rare combination of classic Trinity lines and modernized amenities. Her layout remains one of the best in her class: a full-beam on-deck master suite, four generous guest staterooms (two of which rival the master staterooms of similarly sized yachts), and accommodations for up to 12 guests. Her shallow draft of 7’9” and top speed of 20 knots make her equally at home in the calm waters of the Bahamas as she is on the docks of Cannes or Newport.
As the refit moves into its final phase, we’re excited to share behind-the-scenes glimpses of the project in progress. From the stone installation to custom decorative trims and luxury wall coverings, every detail is approached with the same care and dedication that earned us the trust of these discerning clients.