Boat owners are getting their repairs and maintenance done early this year in preparation for the America’s Cup, according to the owners of a boat yard in Dockyard.

Kareem Johnson and Chris Roque at Spar Yard Marine Solutions (West End Yachts), said: “We are a bit concerned about the anticipated backlog of work in May and June. Normally these are busy months, but this year we think it’s going to be even busier, and it’ll start earlier.

“People have started to spend a little more money in general, upgrading their boats so they are good and ready during the America’s Cup.”

Mr Johnson revealed that one member of his staff, Tim Charters, has been seconded to Oracle Team USA through to the end of America’s Cup.

Bermudian Gemell Gomes had also spent some time working there. “A lot of the building and rebuilding has been done here in Bermuda. Some parts have been brought in, but a lot has been built here.

“It has been very different to what they normally do and it has been a great experience for them.”