Beachco
Founded in 1991, Beachco Enterprises was established to provide comprehensive support to yacht owners throughout the custom yacht construction process. With extensive experience in Holland dating back to 1985, our company was created to offer expert guidance and assistance in every aspect related to building yachts across multiple shipyards in the Netherlands.
Career
In 1976, I earned my Class A auto mechanics license meeting Interprovincial standards. While working with GM for 8 years, I obtained a Diesel endorsement. In 1980, I held roles as a service advisor and shop foreman, earning recognition as one of 50 across Canada to receive a master technician's award. Simultaneously, I ventured into founding a specialized business focusing on Corvettes and four-wheel drives.
My expertise expanded globally as I became certified as a Class 1 Automotive Technician in the Netherlands. In 1984, I left Canada to captain a 25-meter motor yacht constructed in Oss, Netherlands. From the inception of its hull to the final stages, I actively participated in its construction. Subsequently, I operated this vessel in Florida for 3 years before returning to Oss for the development of the world's fastest motor yacht, "Octopussy." As the chief engineer, I dedicated a year to its construction and six months post-delivery.
My career path led me to serve as an agent for various motor yacht constructions, ultimately securing a 13-year tenure at Heesen Yachts. During my time there, I held roles as a project manager, conducted sea trials, and managed aftersales services.
In 2008, I transitioned to Zeelander, a renowned GRP yacht builder in Groot Ammers, Netherlands. My focus centered on contributing to the development of the 44, 55, Z6, Z7 and Z8 projects, lending my expertise to these ventures.
Personal Projects
1952 Jeep
I repainted the body and installed a Buick V6 and all terrain tires. I won first in class at the Toronto Truck Show.
1978 Malibu
In 1982 while working at a Chevrolet dealership in Canada I created a Super Sport version of a 1978 Chevrolet Malibu. Using various GM components the car was very close to the Monte Carlo SS that came out a year after my car was completed. This had a 350 V8, four speed and 323 rear axle ratio. It did a quarter mile in 14.9 seconds.
1980 BMW 320i
In the Netherlands I purchased a BMW 316 and rebuilt it into a 320i that was used every year on a race track. This was a daily driver that made it into BMW Scene magazine as a feature auto. I added an intergrated roll cage that I do not believe had been done before at that time.
1978 BMW 633 CSi
After completing the 320i I purchased a BMW 633 CSi which was rusted and worn out. During a two year period the auto was restored to original condition. The engine compartment was the same as quality as shown in the sales brochure.
Wanderer III
In 2006 I started production of a replica 1939 Chris Craft Barrelback in my garage. The boat was equipped with a V6 PRV motor that I marinised. The boat was also used by Glen L for their advertisement in various magazines. This was a cold mould construction and used epoxy for the glue. I sold this boat in 2011.
Mini
In 2012 I purchased a Mini and restored it to a Cooper replica. I installed Recaro seats and made the complete leather interior by myself. I also spray painted the auto myself.
Typhoon
In 2013 I started the production of a replica of the Typhoon which was build for Edsel Ford in 1929. Using a lines plan from a George Crouch design that I found on internet I made a CAD drawing. CNC templates were then used to make solid Mahogany frames. The longitudinal frames are mede of oak. I marinised a BMW M70 V12 and adapted it to a Velvet Drive 1 to 1 transmission. Most of the parts for this project are unavailable and therefore most are made by hand. This boat made its first trials this year and is available for sale.
BMW 318i
In 2025 I had to make rust repairs to my 318i that has 430000 kilometers. I installed fiberglass M3 front fenders. The rear fenders had rust and being that I had to cut away the metal I decided to add flares the same contour as M3 front fenders. This made room for 255 x 19 front tires and 305 x 19 rear tirse. The whole car was repainted in a Bentley gray metallic color. The interior was upgraded to leather. That is my 645 CSi in the back ground.
Projects
Due to the vast experience I have accumulated over the past years I have been able to learn a lot about painting, welding, upholstery, carpentry and electrical systems. I am happy to offer assistance to any one interested in a BMW classic automobile or building a boat. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Beachco Enterprises
James Hurley
Oss, Netherlands
[email protected]
Consultancy for building motor yachts