In the spring of 1993, JFA Yachts embarked on its maiden boat construction project in Concarneau. Now, as the renowned French shipyard marks its 30th anniversary, it reflects on a legacy of delivering exceptional sailing and motor yachts. Today, JFA Yachts is globally recognized for its expertise in building unique custom vessels, as well as providing maintenance and refit services for large yachts.
Yard view
As JFA Yachts' teams work on their largest in-house yacht project to date and venture into new markets, founders Frédéric Jaouen and Frederic Breuilly, along with partners Brigitte Jaouen-Guennec and Michel Siou, have initiated a change of ownership process. This transition will empower three longstanding collaborators to assume leadership roles, ensuring the shipyard's continuity and development in Concarneau's thriving Port.
Long Island 78
Frederic Jaouen fondly recalls his birth in Concarneau, just a stone's throw away from JFA Yachts' premises. The decision to establish the shipyard in the heart of the port was a natural choice for him and his friend, Frederic Breuilly. Over the years, Concarneau's rich human and industrial network has played a pivotal role in the shipyard's growth, providing invaluable infrastructure, know-how, industrial partnerships, and attracting clients, new coworkers, and their families.
23m sailing yacht Kermor
The shipyard's dedicated workforce, comprising metalworkers, welders, mechanics, cabinet makers, composite specialists, engineers, technicians, administrative staff, and sales executives, shares a deep connection to Concarneau. This collective expertise and commitment are indispensable in an industry where technical excellence and craftsmanship are paramount. With approximately fifty employees collaborating within the shipyard's facilities, JFA Yachts has cultivated a close-knit team that embodies the spirit of quality and innovation.
37m motor yacht Axantha
The Port of Concarneau has also evolved over time, and since 1998, JFA Yachts has invested in its own expansive facilities. Today, the shipyard boasts an impressive array of halls, including a recently constructed composite construction hall, along Quai des Seychelles.
29m Hortense in Antartica
JFA Yachts stands out as a dedicated builder of unique yachts, distinct from mass-produced vessels. The shipyard's portfolio showcases a diverse range of extraordinary projects, making it difficult to highlight just a few. However, some notable examples include:
– Kermor (1993): JFA Yachts' inaugural delivery, a 23-meter sloop sailboat renamed Runaway Bunny.
– Axantha (2003): JFA's first motor yacht, measuring 37 meters in length. The satisfied owner commissioned a larger version, Axantha II (43 meters, delivered in 2011), while maintaining the original vessel's defining features.
– Hortense (2009): A 29-meter motor sailor that has traversed all oceans, including the Antarctic.
– Bystander (2007): A neoclassical motor yacht and escort vessel for Class J Velsheda, gaining worldwide acclaim and winning the International Superyacht Society's award for the most beautiful yacht.
– Mousetrap (2012): The largest sailing catamaran ever built with carbon fiber at the time, measuring 33.5 meters.
– WindQuest (2014): The first of the semi-custom Long Island catamaran series, spanning 27 meters. Two additional units were delivered in 2018 and 2021.
From left to right, standing Dominique Rouchon and Vincent Balouin, seated Michel Siou, Frédéric Jaouen, Gaël Douguet
The founders, Frédéric Jaouen, JFA Yacht’s President; Frederic Breuilly, Production Director and Brigitte Jaouen, Director of Administration and Finance were soon backed up by Michel Siou, Project Manager. Frederic Breuilly is nowadays retired, but the other three partners remain at post.
The three controlling shareholders in their complementary roles will continue working in their domain expertise but always having in mind the following common goals:
- to continue developing the shipyard’s historical market niche: the construction of custom super yachts like the 50-meter one currently under construction,
- to reinforce the Long Island catamaran series,
- to perform refit projects regularly,
- to continue developing the shipyard competences in terms of composite construction in order to extend their offer to new developing markets in the composite construction field. It is worth mentioning that JFA Yachts has already delivered two yacht tenders and started the year with the construction of an 18m pilot boat for the French Lighthouses and Beacons Service.
VIta Tender
French shipbuilder JFA Yachts was founded in 1993 by Frédéric Jaouen. JFA Yachts builds mono- and multihull power and sailing superyachts from 24 to 50 meters in length.
Credits: F Betermin; N Claris; Kirstin; Yacht Club Monaco; Fly HD; all courtesy of JFA Yachts
Overmarine Group has launched the fifth hull in its Mangusta Oceano 50 series, a 50-meter displacement yacht measuring just below 500 GT. The vessel features exterior and interior design by Alberto Mancini in collaboration with the shipyard's technical department.The yacht's layout emphasizes indoor-outdoor connectivity through floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive glazing. Accommodation includes five cabins, with a full-beam master suite on the main deck featuring an automated balcony. The lower deck houses four guest cabins and a gymnasium.Outdoor amenities comprise three connected beach club terraces, two swimming pools (including a 6.5×2.6-meter pool with countercurrent system), and multiple lounge/dining areas across the decks. The sun deck infinity pool creates a visual connection with the horizon.Power comes from twin MTU 12V 2000 M86 engines (1,700hp each), delivering a 16-knot top speed and 4,500-nautical-mile range at 11 knots. Moran Yachts facilitated the sale of this fifth Oceano 50 unit.The launch follows four previous deliveries in the Oceano 50 series since its introduction. Overmarine Group was founded in 1985 by the Balducci family. The shipyard builds open and displacement power superyachts under the Mangusta and Mangusta Oceanco brand names. Credits: Overmarine Group
June 23, 2025
Horizon Yachts has completed construction of the 15th hull in its FD80 series, a 24.6-meter motoryacht that will make its European debut at both the Cannes Yachting Festival and Monaco Yacht Show in September. This marks the first FD80 model specifically configured for the European market.The yacht features design collaboration with Dutch designer Cor D. Rover, incorporating an open-plan interior layout with floor-to-ceiling windows. Interior finishes include bleached teak and brushed gunmetal detailing throughout the cabinetry. The owner has specified several custom features, including large-format televisions in both the main saloon and master suite.Accommodations are arranged for eight guests across four staterooms, with a full-beam master suite on the main deck and three additional guest cabins below. The crew area accommodates four staff with direct access to the beach club.Exterior spaces include multiple social areas, with a hot tub and teppanyaki grill on the bridge deck, along with flexible aft deck space that can serve as either a lounge or tender storage area. The foredeck features a dining setup with sunpads.Powered by twin MTU engines, the yacht incorporates Horizon's Skyline superstructure design and a fully enclosed wheelhouse. The FD80 will be available for viewings at both European boat shows before delivery to its owner. The Fast Displacement series represents a significant portion of Horizon Yachts' current production output.Founded in 1987, Horizon Yachts has celebrated 35 years as one of the largest luxury yacht builders in the world as well as the number one builder in the Asia Pacific region. In the past three decades, Horizon has delivered over 855 luxury yachts, with more than 220 of these over 80 feet in length. Popular models ranging from 52 to 150 feet include motor yachts, superyachts, power catamarans, expedition yachts, and fast displacement motor yachts.Credits: Horizon Yachts
June 23, 2025
Dutch submersible manufacturer U-Boat Worx celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2025, having delivered 60 submarines worldwide since its 2005 founding. The company specializes in private, scientific, and commercial underwater vehicles, with models ranging from personal submersibles to research vessels."Since inception, the company has logged tens of thousands of dive hours," stated Wilbert Beilsma, Commercial Director at U-Boat Worx. The manufacturer maintains service hubs in Curaçao, Europe, and the U.S., providing lifecycle support including pilot training and spare parts for all models.Technical innovations include full acrylic pressure domes and lithium-ion battery systems. U-Boat Worx offers multiple ownership options: full purchase, leasing, wet lease (with crew), and charter arrangements. The company's submersibles are compatible with superyacht platforms, with integration services available.Current operations span private exploration, marine research, and emerging defense applications. "We remain driven by the same spirit that launched our first submersible," said Marketing Director Roy Heijdra. The manufacturer continues developing new models while supporting its existing fleet of operational submarines.Founded in 2005, U-Boat Worx leads the global market in designing and manufacturing submersibles for private, research, and cruise industries. With over 60 operational units worldwide, the company prioritizes safety, performance, and comfort, continuously innovating underwater exploration technologies.Credits: U-Boat Worx
June 23, 2025
The newly delivered Benetti Oasis 34 motor yacht Y has entered the brokerage market with Mark Seaton of Yacht. The 34.4-meter vessel was delivered in May 2025 and remains under full shipyard warranty. Currently berthed at Benetti’s shipyard in Viareggio, Italy, the yacht is available for immediate delivery.Designed by RWD, the Oasis 34M series features a distinctive Oasis Deck with fold-down bulwarks, a glass-sided infinity pool, and a spacious beach club area. The yacht’s streamlined profile, extended overhangs, and open-plan layout reflect Benetti’s approach to indoor-outdoor living.The interior design, created by Bonetti/Kozerski Architecture of New York, combines warm greys and natural tones with contemporary elements. The accommodation includes five staterooms for up to 10 guests, with a full-beam owner’s suite on the main deck and four guest cabins below. The crew quarters can accommodate seven staff members.The 269 GT yacht is powered by twin 1,380hp MTU diesel engines, providing a top speed of 16 knots and a cruising speed of 14.5 knots. The vessel sails under the Marshall Islands flag. The asking price for the yacht is €17,500,000, excluding VAT. It represents the only Benetti Oasis 34M from 2025 currently available on the market worldwide. The vessel was built under the supervision of experienced owners and a leading maritime consultancy, ensuring high-quality construction and finishing.Credits: Yacht Harbour Archive
June 20, 2025
Athens-based design studio IPYD has revealed Aether, an 80-meter superyacht concept developed for Oceanco's Simply Custom platform. The design features triangular geometric motifs throughout its exterior, referencing concepts of balance and harmony from ancient Greek philosophy.Presented at the 2023 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, Aether joins Oceanco's portfolio of semi-custom concepts built on a standardized technical platform by Lateral Naval Architects. Initial renderings show a continuous exterior profile with an open-plan beach club featuring spa facilities and lounge areas.The Simply Custom range offers owners design flexibility while utilizing pre-engineered naval architecture. Aether follows previous concepts including Ani by Vallicelli Design and Dunes by the Touch Studio. Oceanco has not disclosed construction timelines or technical specifications for the Aetherconcept.Oceanco was founded in 1987. Right now it is a world-class builder of custom superyachts up to the 140 meters range. Oceanco works with world-known designers such as Terence Disdale, Nuvolari-Lenard, Espen Oeino, Sam Sorgiovanni, Igor Lobanov, Tim Heywood and Andrew Winch to create some of the timeless and award-winning yachts afloat today.Credits: IPYD
June 20, 2025