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BOAT CONVERSIONS

PMD transforms vessels with innovative and cost-effective boat conversion services. Whether modifying a new boat or upgrading an older one, we handle everything from adding accessories to complete refits. Our experienced team uses quality materials and advanced facilities to deliver outstanding results.
Polaris Marine Group delivers expert boat conversion services tailored to the operational demands of commercial, industrial, and government clients. Our experienced team works closely with vessel owners, operators, and marine architects to modify existing vessels into purpose-built assets ready for their next operational phase. From minor adjustments to complete overhauls, we handle the design, fabrication, and installation of marine systems that extend the functionality, safety, and lifespan of vessels. Whether you’re converting a workboat for new service requirements, transforming a barge into a floating work platform, or updating an older vessel to meet new regulations, Polaris Marine Group provides practical solutions that meet both commercial and compliance needs.

Tailored Marine Engineering for Vessel Adaptation

Every conversion begins with a deep understanding of the client’s intended use. Whether you require improved cargo handling, crew accommodation, propulsion upgrades, or changes to superstructure and layout, we align our engineering process with your operational goals. Our marine engineers and project managers collaborate with you to assess current vessel capabilities, identify technical limitations, and plan changes that enhance performance without compromising stability or compliance. Conversions may involve mechanical changes, electrical system upgrades, hydraulic installations, hull modifications, or structural enhancements. Each of these components must work in harmony to ensure the vessel continues to operate safely and efficiently in its intended environment. Polaris Marine Group takes responsibility for this integration process, ensuring that all changes are built to specification and certified where necessary.

Workboat and Utility Vessel Conversions

Polaris Marine Group has extensive experience converting utility vessels to meet changing commercial demands. This may involve retrofitting deck equipment, adapting crew spaces, or adding onboard systems to support new activities such as diving operations, mooring maintenance, passenger transport, or cargo transfer. We also support vessel repurposing for marine construction, dredging, environmental response, and survey work. Conversions are particularly common when operators seek to extend the working life of an existing asset instead of commissioning a new build. By upgrading or reconfiguring a vessel that already meets core requirements—such as size, stability, and draft—clients can reduce capital costs while maintaining fleet capability.

Barge Conversions for Marine Construction and Infrastructure

Many of the barge conversions Polaris Marine Group undertakes are designed to support major construction or marine infrastructure projects. These often involve modifying a standard barge to carry cranes, piling rigs, generators, accommodation modules, or other specialist equipment. Some barges are fitted with spud legs, ramps, or reinforced decks to carry heavy or sensitive loads. Each barge conversion requires detailed load calculations, structural reinforcement, and careful consideration of deck layout. Our team ensures every modification is executed in line with engineering specifications and maritime safety regulations. These barge conversions allow contractors to operate more efficiently on water-based projects, expanding the usefulness of their marine assets.

Commercial to Government Vessel Transitions

We also assist government agencies with repurposing commercial vessels for public service. This may include transforming a former workboat into a patrol vessel, retrofitting a ferry for emergency response, or adapting a cargo vessel for environmental monitoring. These conversions must meet stringent requirements related to safety, emissions, communication systems, and operational readiness. Polaris Marine Group understands the procurement, compliance, and project management standards required for government vessel works. We maintain open communication with all stakeholders, provide clear documentation, and ensure all works meet classification standards where applicable.

Refits, Upgrades, and Lifecycle Extension

Conversions often form part of broader refit projects, where vessels undergo structural, mechanical, and systems-based upgrades to extend their useful lifespan. We manage the entire process from lift-out and inspection to modification, certification, and re-launch. In many cases, our team can identify opportunities to improve vessel efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, or enhance onboard safety systems as part of the conversion. Whether your conversion is driven by regulatory change, operational need, or strategic fleet planning, Polaris Marine Group offers practical, scalable services designed to deliver value over the long term. We understand the importance of timeline management and will coordinate works to ensure minimum disruption to your operations.

Design, Certification, and Classification Support

For complex or regulated conversions, we work closely with naval architects and classification societies to ensure that all changes comply with relevant maritime codes and standards. We can coordinate surveys, facilitate inspections, and assist with documentation required for flag state or class approval. Many conversions also involve changes to stability profiles, load limits, or watertight integrity. Polaris Marine Group has the technical expertise to carry out these assessments and implement design changes that retain or enhance vessel seaworthiness. Our attention to detail ensures that even the most complex modifications are handled professionally and in accordance with all maritime obligations.

On-Site and Mobile Project Capability

Conversions can be undertaken at our partner shipyards or coordinated onsite at secure hardstand facilities. For some modifications—particularly those that are time-sensitive or minor in scope—our team can carry out works alongside existing operations using mobile workshops and equipment. We tailor our delivery model to suit your vessel, budget, and schedule. If dry-docking or lifting is required, Polaris Marine Group can coordinate travel lift services and hardstand support. We’ll work with trusted suppliers and contractors to ensure the full scope of the conversion can be completed in one streamlined process.

PROJECTS

SEE US IN ACTION

Manton Dam

Polaris Marine Constructions were engaged by Exact Contracting to provide a modular crane barge service at the Dam wall at Manton Dam to deliver the replacement of internal valving and upgrades to the infrastructure of the Intake tower.

Nelligen Bridge Marine Support and Demolition Contract

Polaris Marine Group played a key role in the Nelligen Bridge project, providing overwater support for construction before demolishing the 7-span, 5,000-tonne bridge. The in-house demolition was incident-free, using a suspended work deck with geotextile and drainage to capture debris. Materials were processed on-site and recycled. This project highlighted Polaris Marine’s expertise in complex marine demolition within sensitive waterways.

Seabed Services Pipe Line Deployment

Deploy 3 service pipe lines on the sea floor between Garden Island and Fort Dennison and cover with precast grout mattresses.

Fort Denison – Ferry Wharf

This project included wharf demolition, sea wall remediation, pile installation, concrete works, and the installation of a new pontoon with electrical connections.

Circular Quay – Western Promenade – Soffit Concrete Repairs

This project involved concrete remediation works, including hydro-blasting, shotcrete application, bar reinforcement, protective coatings, and concrete cutting, with site set-up, exclusion zones, and sound curtain installation to ensure safety and minimal disruption.

Manly Boat Shed – Pontoon & Jetty Replacement

This project involved constructing a pontoon, gangway, and timber jetty, including piling, demolition, and electrical connections, to deliver a durable marine access solution.
SEE MORE POLARIS PROJECTS

TESTIMONIALS

HEAR FROM SOME
OF OUR CLIENTS

★★★★★ 5/5
“Polaris are awesome to work with, they make landscaping jobs with tricky access a breeze.”

Johnny L - Distinct Landscapes

★★★★★ 5/5
“The attention to detail provided by PMC during the project could not be faulted. Execution, safety, onsite management and the finished product were at a very high standard. Communication throughout the project from PMC Supervisors and Project Manager were regular and accurate. This enabled Thales to understand daily activities, problems and overall progression at every stage. Ultimately, the professionalism shown by PMC through all aspects of the project, enabled for a successful end product to the Commonwealth. I can’t thank Dane and the PMC team enough for the way the project was ran, start to finish.”

Jake Duncombe, Project Manager

★★★★★ 5/5
“Polaris were an exceptional contractor to work with throughout this project. They were fluent in communication, timely, reliable, nailed the quality of work and went out of their way to be flexible with Thales needs. They have a positive and healthy working relationship with Thales.”

Owen Gardner, Project Manager

★★★★★ 5/5
“I have had the pleasure of working with Polaris for the last couple of years, particularly with transporting vehicles for events, deliveries, and contractors. Their Team is professional and reliable, from their Operational Team, Cookie & Jay, to their Skippers and deckhands are incredibly efficient, even under tight event schedules. What really stands out is their attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction. Such as accommodating last-minute changes, they always go the extra mile to make sure everything runs smoothly, giving us peace of mind. Over the years we have built a great relationship/partnership with Polaris and we look forward to continuing to work with them for years to come.”

Keighley O, Sydney Harbour Trust

GET IN CONTACT

If you need to tow it, show it, build it, push it, deliver it, lift it or salvage it over water; please complete this form and one of our team will be in touch.

Gate 2, James Craig Rd, Rozelle NSW 2039

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Phone: +61 2 9563 8333
Emergency Phone: +61 (0) 418 231 916

[email protected]

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Gate 2, James Craig Rd, Rozelle NSW 2039
[email protected]
Phone: +61 2 9563 8333
Emergency Phone +61 (0) 418 231 916
CERTIFICATION
BIMCO Certified
Certifications