The Expertise Behind Modern Yachting
Building a modern yacht is a complex process in which technology, specialist knowledge and skilled craftsmanship come together at every stage. These elements were at the heart of a press tour in western France from 7 to 10 October 2026, organised as part of the communications programme for boot Düsseldorf 2027.
Rika Ntoulia took part in the tour, which included visits to leading boatbuilders, production facilities, the IMOCA Eole Racing team and yacht presentations at Port des Minimes marina in La Rochelle. The programme offered a broader view of how an initial concept and design are transformed into a finished vessel.
From Design to Production
At Beneteau’s facilities in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, participants were able to observe different stages of the construction process and see how closely design, materials and the work of specialist teams must be coordinated. Further visits to J Composites, Fountaine Pajot and Dufour provided insight into the different methods and approaches used across the sector.
Modern boatbuilding increasingly relies on digital design tools, precision machinery and carefully coordinated deliveries of materials and components. Yet technology does not remove the need for human expertise. Processes involving composite materials and resin infusion demand considerable skill and close quality control, since an error at a critical stage can compromise the finished moulding.
Innovation and the Move Towards Sustainability
The development of new materials and production methods is an important part of the industry’s future. During the tour, discussions explored how material choices can support more responsible resource use and improve prospects for recycling at the end of a vessel’s life. One example highlighted was the use of Elium thermoplastic resin in certain applications, reflecting wider efforts to develop materials with more promising end-of-life options.
Progress towards more sustainable practices depends on more than material selection alone. It also calls for continued research, workforce training, improvements to production processes and collaboration among boatbuilders, suppliers and industry bodies.
People and the Boatbuilding Ecosystem
The number of women working in different roles across the production facilities was a notable feature of the visits, underlining the breadth of skills that modern boatbuilding requires. The programme also highlighted the importance of training and passing specialist knowledge on to the next generation of workers.
Brittany is an example of a region where boatbuilding has developed into a well-established industrial cluster. The presence of specialist companies, skilled workers and suppliers in one area can strengthen production and support employment. Locating factories inland can also offer cost advantages for boats that can be transported by road to the coast for launching.
From the Shipyard to the Marina
On 9 October, the delegation visited Fountaine Pajot and Dufour in the wider La Rochelle region. The programme also included yacht presentations at Port des Minimes marina, featuring models from Fountaine Pajot, Dufour and Jeanneau, alongside the participation of Dimension Polyant Sail.
Moving from the production floor to the finished yachts illustrated the connection between engineering, design, materials and the owner’s experience. A visit to the IMOCA Eole Racing team added another dimension, showing how boatbuilding expertise also supports the demanding world of competitive sailing.
Looking Ahead to boot Düsseldorf 2027
The press tour concluded on 10 October, giving participants a valuable overview of French boatbuilding and the technological, production and human factors shaping the sector. It also reinforced the value of direct contact between industry professionals and the media, helping developments to be communicated to audiences with greater insight and context.
Attention now turns to boot Düsseldorf 2027, taking place from 23 to 31 January 2027. The international exhibition is a key meeting point for manufacturers, marine professionals and boating enthusiasts, showcasing new products, technologies and trends set to influence the future of yachting.
Photo Credits: Tania Vellen
