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MJM Marine on Quest for Azamara Deal

MJM Marine has secured a major new contract with Azamara Cruises, marking the continuation of a long-standing relationship between the two organisations.,The project will see Newry headquartered MJM Marine deliver a substantial refit programme on board the Azamara Quest cruise ship.,The project will take place in Greece with ‘Azamara Forward’- representing the cruise line’s largest fleetwide renovation to date. It is designed to thoughtfully elevate the onboard experience while honouring the hallmarks that have long defined the brand. The initiative includes a range of ship-wide enhancements, from refreshed staterooms and redesigned public spaces to new dining concepts and reimagined social venues. Debuting exclusively aboard Azamara Quest is an entirely new Penthouse Deck. Delivered by MJM Marine, this will feature 12 new suites, marking a significant expansion for the ship.,This latest contract builds on MJM Marine’s previous work with the brand, most notably the refit of Azamara Pursuit in Belfast in 2018. At the time, this represented one of the largest and most complex cruise ship refits undertaken in the city; reinforcing Belfast’s capability as a centre for high-value marine projects.,Now under new ownership Azamara Cruises continues to invest in its fleet, which currently comprises four ships. The decision to partner again with MJM Marine reflects the strength of the relationship established during earlier projects, and the confidence in MJM’s delivery capability.,The agreement was finalised in Newry, Northern Ireland, and formally announced at Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami.,“This partnership with MJM Marine reflects our commitment to thoughtfully evolving the Azamara Cruises experience while delivering the highest-quality enhancements for our guests,”said Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO of Azamara Cruises. “Their deep understanding of our brand and our standards made them the natural choice to support the Azamara Forward programme. Together, we are excited to bring the next phase of our fleet’s transformation to life, creating new spaces that will deepen connection to both the ship and the destinations our guests explore.”,Gary Annett, CEO, MJM Marine added, “We are delighted to be continuing our relationship with Azamara Cruises on this significant Azamara Forward programme for ‘Quest’. Our previous work together in Belfast on the ‘Pursuit’ established a strong foundation, upon which to build. This latest investment with MJM is a clear reflection of the trust built between both teams. It also allows us to continue to recruit and offer further employment opportunities in this growing sector. We look forward to delivering a successful outcome and helping bring Azamara Forward to life.”,The project will further strengthen MJM Marine’s position within the global cruise sector, supporting its continued growth across international shipyard locations. For information about career opportunities associated with this and other international projects, please log onto mjmmarine.com.,,Photo Caption,1st Row L-R,Mark Jackson, Pre-Construction Director, MJM Marine, Gary Annett, CEO, MJM Marine, Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO, Azamara Cruises, Naoimh McConville, Group Managing Director - The Rathbane Group, Fiona Nevin, Head of Global Business Development, MJM Marine, Martha Brabham, Vice President, Design & Revitalisation, Azamara Cruises.,2nd Row L-R,Dan Hanrahan, Chairman, Azamara Cruises and Advisor to Sycamore Cruises, Brian McConville CBE, Chairman, The  Rathbane Group, Minas Miliaras, Head of Marine and New Build, Azamara Cruises, Ralph Schipani, Managing Director,  Sycamore Partners, Mark McAleer, Contracts Director, MJM Marine. MJM Marine is a Rathbane Group company.,,,                                                                     

MJM Marine Charity Golf Day 2025 – A Resounding Success in Support of Women’s Aid Armagh Down

MJM Marine was proud to host its annual Charity Golf Day on Friday, 4th July 2025, at the esteemed Warrenpoint Golf Club, in support of our Charity Partner, Women’s Aid Armagh Down.,The event brought together nearly 100 participants, including employees, sponsors, and supporters, all united by a shared commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of women and children affected by domestic abuse. The day was marked by a spirit of generosity, community, and purpose, with each team demonstrating both enthusiasm on the course and dedication to the cause.,We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to all the golfers who participated with such energy and goodwill, our valued sponsors, including our Gold Sponsors, whose support was instrumental in the success of the event, the team at Warrenpoint Golf Club for their warm hospitality and excellent facilities, the dedicated staff at Women’s Aid Armagh Down, particularly Eileen and her team, for their tireless and vital work and the MJM Marine team for their outstanding organisation and commitment to delivering a seamless and impactful event.,This year’s Golf Day not only raised essential funds but also reinforced our ongoing partnership with Women’s Aid Armagh Down and our commitment to supporting vulnerable members of our community.,We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to the success of this event. Together, we are driving positive change and helping to create safer futures for those who need it most.,

Launch of Mini Navigators

We are proud to have launched a pilot ‘Mini Navigators’ programme with three local schools. ,The initiative for children aged 10-11 gives young people a practical project which introduces them to the skills required to pursue a variety of careers on their doorstep with a local business. We have an existing student engagement programme ‘The Navigate Programme’ which delivers graduate, placement, Higher Level Apprentices (HLA), Apprentices and Work Experience opportunities. Mini Navigators seeks to extend this programme to younger people in Primary schools to inspire future career choices. ,Our Director of People and Governance Elizabeth O'Connor said, “It is very important for people of all ages to know that careers which allow you to travel the world; and be involved in really exciting, multi-million-pound projects are available in Newry. ,We want to inspire the next generation to think about their future career and where it could take them. We are investing in digital transformation and the latest technology for people interested in these roles; while there are opportunities open from Joinery, Quantity Surveying to Project Management. There really is something for every interest and ability.” ,Elizabeth continued, “Our Mini Navigators programme allows us to get out initially to young people in Drumilly, Burren and Annaclone and talk to them about future opportunities related to the type of things they enjoy doing.” ,During the Mini Navigators session, Primary 7s are tasked with an activity which involves the students building a bridge, which allows for our cruise ship model to pass through. This interactive model was created inhouse by our current joinery apprentices. The teams must design and cost the bridge and deliver a solution within the timeframe. This fun, interactive activity is designed to make them think about which skillset they most enjoy within the group. ,We are currently recruiting for a number of new roles. Details are available on ourwebsite mjmmarine.com  ,,

MJM Marine to Host Inaugural Charity Golf Day to Support Women’s Aid.

MJM Marine proudly announced the launch of our Annual Charity Golf Day, held on Monday, June 2nd, at our headquarters in Newry. The event was attended by Eileen Murphy, CEO of Women's Aid, along with generous sponsors, Chelsom Ltd, Mapei UK Ltd and MJM Marine's dedicated Social, Health and Well-being Committee.,This year's Charity Golf Day will take place on July 4th at Warrenpoint Golf Club, with all proceeds benefiting MJM Marine's Charity Partner, Women's Aid.,Women's Aid is a vital organisation that provides essential support and resources to women and children affected by domestic violence.,Eileen Murphy, CEO of Women's Aid Armagh Down, said, "As the Chief Executive of Women's Aid Armagh Down, I want to take a moment to express our heartfelt appreciation to everyone involved in this event and our charity partnership with MJM Marine.","Your commitment to fundraising for our charity means more than just a day on the green; it represents shared purpose, generosity and a powerful drive to make a difference. Your involvement brings hope; hope for stronger support systems, greater opportunities and brighter futures for individuals and families who need it most." ,,Christopher Rodgers, Finance Director, MJM Marine, said, "We are really looking forward to our annual Golf Classic on the 4th of July; it is always a great day out. The Golf Day is an opportunity for members of our team, clients, suppliers and stakeholders to show their support for our charity partner, Women's Aid Armagh Down." ,MJM Marine would like to extend our thanks to all the generous sponsors and supporters.,We would like to give a special mention to our Gold Sponsors: Grindtec Services, JP Corry NI Ltd, Mapei UK Ltd, Northern Lights Ltd, Saint Gobain Weber Ltd, Vistona Limited, Nostra, Linton Technical Solutions Ltd, Chelsom Ltd, Pennywell Industries Ltd and Promart Manufacturing Ltd and our Silver, Bronze and prize sponsors.,Our partnership with Women’s Aid reflects MJM Marine’s deep commitment to corporate social responsibility and our belief in building stronger, safer communities.,If you’d like to contribute, you can donate here:  https://womensaidarmaghdown.enthuse.com/cf/mjm-marine-charity-of-the-year-2025,,