Project Highlight: OCEMA
Project Highlight: OCEMA
From Rigging to Solar: A Snapshot of FKG’s Versatility
The project with Ocema perfectly illustrates the breadth of skills and services available under one roof at FKG Marine.
The client initially booked in on short notice for a routine rig check. During the inspection, our rigging team identified the need to replace the upper diamonds and the drum on the roller furler, which works were promptly carried out.
While on-site, the client noticed FKG’s fabrication team working on a custom solar frame installation on a nearby vessel. Inspired by the setup, Ocema approached us to see if we could accommodate a similar solution, specifically, a two-panel solar frame to upgrade his onboard power supply.
Our team quickly assessed the request, turned around a quotation quickly and moved right into production. The frame was built and installed within the client’s timeframe, without compromising on quality.
The result was a very satisfied client, who highlighted the seamless experience and recognized the team’s responsiveness and craftsmanship with a 5-star review.
Projects like this may seem straightforward, but they reflect what FKG does best: combining technical expertise, flexibility, and cross-department collaboration to deliver efficient, high-quality solutions, often at short notice.
PARTNERSHIP HIGHLIGHT: Harken
PARTNERSHIP HIGHLIGHT: Harken
FKG Marine is proud to strengthen its offering through a partnership with Harken, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of high-performance sailing hardware and systems.
With over 50 years of innovation behind them, Harken has grown from a small, family business in Wisconsin into a global brand trusted across the marine industry. Today, Harken equipment is used at the highest levels of sailing, including the America’s Cup, The Ocean Race, the Olympics, and the Maxi World Championships—while also supporting vessels of all sizes, from dinghies to superyachts.
At FKG, we carry a range of Harken deck hardware, including blocks, travelers, winches, and hydraulic systems. Combined with our in-house technical expertise, this allows us to provide reliable solutions tailored to each vessel’s needs.
A key advantage for our clients is our close access to Harken, making special orders and sourcing of parts both fast and efficient. Whether it’s a replacement component or a more complex requirement, we can ensure smooth procurement and minimal downtime.
This partnership reflects FKG Marine’s commitment to working with industry-leading brands and delivering trusted, high-quality solutions across the Caribbean and beyond.
Team Spotlight - Francois Nel
Francois Nel - Customer Service & Rigger
From Sea to Solutions: Meet Francois Nel
Francois Nel brings nearly two decades of hands-on experience across the maritime, diving, and financial sectors to FKG Marine. As part of the Technical Rigging Sales and Customer Service team, he combines real-world insight with technical expertise to deliver practical, reliable solutions to clients.
Francois began his career as a delivery and charter captain, later moving into the superyacht industry, where he gained valuable experience working on complex vessels and operations. He then transitioned into the commercial diving sector, working as a dive supervisor, before going on to run his own offshore multihull charter business, Sail Arawak SXM. This diverse background has given Francois a well-rounded understanding of the industry, along with a sharp eye for what works in real-life conditions.
Since joining FKG Marine in 2023, Francois has taken a solutions-driven approach to every project he supports. He played a key role in introducing the Caribbean’s first Profurl electric furler service bench, enabling repairs and warranty work to be carried out locally, an important step in improving service efficiency and accessibility for clients in the region. His focus is straightforward: provide clear advice, deliver smart solutions, and keep things as simple and effective as possible.
Outside of work, Francois continues to spend as much time as possible on the water. Whether sailing, fishing, or enjoying island life with his family, his connection to the sea remains at the core of everything he does.