SHIP DECK Solutions

The Achilles heel of the industry

The maritime look of the oiled brown or patinated grey teak is very much the eyecatcher of the yachting industry and the timbers appearance is therefore a benchmark for alternatives to this high-end segment.

Yachting and maritime traditions are heavily linked to the use of natural teak and few other precious timber species. A few species are the very symbol of maritime culture dating back to times of the great sailing ships.

Ship deck has turned out to be Achilles heel of industry. The question is now whether new and emerging synthetic materials such as expanded foam and PVC alongside the concerns of deforestation, involvement in conflict timber will fade out this historical connection between shipbuilding and the forest - or is there a second path that could strengthen the bond in a sustainable manor?

COPING WITH THE TEAK HEADACHE

Having spoken to shipbuilders and long-time timber traders, we can only draw one conclusion:

“There is no substitute species that offer the technical qualities and beauty of natural teak”.

Teak (Tectona grandis) remains one of the most iconic tropical hardwoods, celebrated for its strength, durability, and natural oils that make it resistant to water, weather, and decay. These qualities have made teak the preferred material for shipbuilding for centuries and, more recently, the ultimate choice for luxury yacht decking thanks to its elegant look and non-slip surface.

Teak has a long tradition as a premium hardwood from Southeast Asia. Today, the industry is moving away from reliance on contested natural forests supply chains, and towards sustainable, well-managed sources. This transition is creating new opportunities for transparency and environmental stewardship. Rather than focusing on regions associated with risk, such as Myanmar (Burma), global regulations like the EU Timber Regulation (EUTR) and the U.S. Lacey Act now encourage responsible practices and certified supply chains. These measures have accelerated the adoption of FSC-certified teak, ensuring legality, traceability, and sustainability for yacht builders and designers worldwide.

The solution? By choosing FSC-certified teak, you commit to legality and sustainability. FSC teak comes from responsibly managed plantations and forests where origin and traceability are guaranteed.

This means:

  • Compliance with international regulations.

  • Sustainable forestry that protects ecosystems and supports local communities.

  • Premium quality for yacht decking, outdoor furniture, and architectural projects—without ecological or ethical compromise.

The era of questionable sourcing is over. With FSC certified teak, you invest in a future where beauty, performance, and responsibility go hand in hand.

INNOVATION NEEDED

The yachting and shipbuilding sector in general has the potential to be a frontrunner when it comes to communication and innovation on responsible wood products.

In line with an increasing focus on bio-based materials, we are also seeing a new era in the innovation of wood as a replacement for fossil-based products or artificial fibres with various types of negative environmental impact.

Teak alternatives need to be developed with innovation and tested on a bigger scale. There is a need for multi-solution approaches to investigating species alternatives, cutting techniques and the latest knowledge of wood technology such as modification.

Optimally, not just a single solution should be sought, but approaches that cover wood from the tropical forests as well as the more temperate forests – and from the more natural forests as well as plantations.

requirements for a ship deck

The technical requirements for wood used for ships can be quite specific and demanding, as the wood must be able to withstand the harsh conditions of the marine environment.

The wood for ship decks must be able to withstand the constant exposure to water, salt, and sun, as well as the wear and tear of regular use.

Focus areas:

  • Dimensional stability

  • High durability

  • Hardness/ toughness

  • Appearance

  • Coloration – Patina

  • Anti-slip texture

  • Heat absorption

Natrual Teak (Tectona grandis)

New approaches

Forest-based alternatives to decks of natural teak is challenged. New solution calls for strong alliances and multiple solutions.

Optimally, not just a single solution should be sought, but approaches that cover wood from the tropical forests as well as the more temperate forests – and from natural forests as well as plantations.

  • Multi-species strategies

  • Plantation wood

  • Sawmill technology and cutting techniques

  • Fine lined veneering

  • Modification and treatment

  • Non-timber forest products (cork )

  • Hybrids (wood on cork)

  • Reclaimed materials

Fineline plantations teak from WolzNautic