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
Columbus Yachts has started building its new 48-meter Crossover model at Palumbo Superyachts' Savona shipyard. The steel-hulled explorer with aluminum superstructures follows two previously sold Crossover units (42m and 47m), marking the shipyard's first self-financed project in this series.Designed by Hydro Tec, the vessel features an 8.6-meter beam and 2.75-meter draft, optimized for stability and long-range cruising. The exterior combines explorer-style proportions with a bulbous bow and streamlined stern for ocean-going capability. Key features include a multifunctional aft deck that can store a large tender or convert into a pool and lounge area.Accommodation includes six cabins for 12 guests, with the owner's suite on the upper deck and a VIP cabin on the main deck. The naval architecture was developed jointly by Hydro Tec and the shipyard's engineering team.No delivery date or price was disclosed. The Crossover series targets owners seeking a balance between expedition capability and contemporary yacht design.Founded in 2008 under Palumbo Superyachts, Columbus Yachts combines 50+ years of maritime expertise with modern yacht-building innovation. The brand gained recognition after launching its first 54m superyacht Prima in 2011 and later pioneering hybrid propulsion technology, earning RINA certification for its Sport Hybrid 40m.Specializing in semi-custom and full-custom builds (37m–120m), Columbus offers four lines: Atlantique, Crossover, Sport, and Classic. Its flagship 80m Dragon exemplifies its craftsmanship. As part of Palumbo Superyachts, the brand provides end-to-end owner support alongside sister yards ISA Yachts, Mondomarine, and Extra Yachts.Credits: Columbus Yachts
June 30, 2025
The 34th Monaco Yacht Show will take place from September 24-27, 2025, featuring approximately 560 exhibitors across Port Hercule. The event will display 120 superyachts, including 50 new builds from 2025, alongside 60 luxury tenders.Organizers have introduced a new sustainability program developed with the Water Revolution Foundation, highlighting exhibitors advancing environmental initiatives. The show's thematic zones include the Yacht Design & Innovation Hub for new concepts, the Adventure Area showcasing over 40 luxury vehicles and water toys, and the upper deck lounge for luxury goods and services."The exhibitor list helps future owners identify key contacts for custom builds, refits, or charters within an exclusive, innovation-focused environment," said Gaëlle Tallarida, Managing Director of the Monaco Yacht Show.The current exhibitor roster includes shipyards, designers, equipment manufacturers, and luxury service providers. The list remains subject to updates through summer 2025.Credits: MYS
June 30, 2025
The latest 80-meter Amels Limited Editions superyacht has arrived at Damen Yachting's Vlissingen shipyard in the Netherlands after construction at their Galatz facility in Romania. The vessel will now undergo full outfitting in preparation for delivery in 2027.Project Manager Danker Rijk stated: "After an impressive launch in our Galatz shipyard, we are delighted to welcome this Amels 80 to Vlissingen to commence the outfitting phase. This is an exciting milestone toward delivering another exceptional yacht on schedule."The 2,175 GT superyacht features exterior design by Espen Øino and interiors by Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design. With accommodations for 14 guests and 21 crew members, the vessel represents Damen Yachting's combination of custom features with proven yacht-building technology.The Amels 80 follows the Limited Editions series' approach of offering semi-custom superyachts with reduced build times compared to fully custom projects. No further details about the owner or specific custom features were disclosed.Damen Yachting, a division within the Damen Shipyards Group, was created in 2019. The division combines the pedigree and heritage of Amels yachts with a growing portfolio of SeaXplorer yachts and Yacht Support vessels.Credits: Damen Yachting
June 27, 2025
Flexjet and Ferretti Group have introduced Riva Volare, a custom aircraft cabin design inspired by Riva motoryachts. The collaboration brings nautical styling to Flexjet's Gulfstream G650 jets and Sikorsky S-76 helicopters, targeting ultra-high-net-worth travelers.The Gulfstream G650 configuration accommodates 12-15 passengers for flights up to 16 hours, while two Sikorsky S-76 helicopters will operate in Florida and a new Milan-based service covering Italy and the French Riviera. Ferretti Group clients will receive preferential access to the helicopter operations.The design blends elements from Riva's 1960s Aquarama with contemporary Aquariva models, using artisanal materials and distinctive patterns. The interiors were developed through collaboration between both companies' design teams.Kenn Ricci and Alberto Galassi"I have long admired the iconic style of Riva, and seeing this brought to life in our aircraft is nothing short of exceptional," said Flexjet Chairman Kenn Ricci. Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi added: "Riva Volare is another splendid result of our collaboration with Flexjet, a brand with which we share the same passion for constantly raising quality standards."The design was unveiled June 26 at Milano Prime Linate Airport, with displays of the aircraft alongside a Riva Aquariva Special yacht. No pricing details were disclosed.The Ferretti Group, led by Chief Executive Officer Alberto Galassi, is now one of the world’s leaders in the construction and sale of luxury yachts and pleasure vessels, with a unique portfolio of brands: Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Itama, Mochi Craft, CRN, Custom Line and Wally.Credits: Ferretti Group
June 27, 2025
Italian shipyard AB Yachts, part of Next Yacht Group, has unveiled the AB 110S, a sportier version of its AB 110 model. The 33.7-meter yacht marks AB Yachts' first collaboration with automotive design firm EXE Design, incorporating elements such as a raked windshield and lightweight profile."We also boast over 20 years of experience in naval architecture. [And] this cross-sector approach is the real added value of our work," said Stefano Bedoni of EXE Design.Key features include multiple retractable systems: a sliding cockpit cover, a sunroof between the helm and saloon, and a hardtop that can cover either the helm station or sunpad. The main deck integrates a sunbathing area and a bar serving both indoor and outdoor spaces. A forward "flying couch" provides elevated seating with panoramic views.Powered by three MAN V12X-2200 engines, the AB 110S reaches 48 knots. The engine room is fully soundproofed to minimize noise and vibrations. No pricing or delivery details were disclosed.Italian shipyard AB Yachts was founded in 1992. In 2001, AB Yachts was acquired by the Fipa Group. Today Next Yacht Group is the owner of the historic Maiora, AB Yachts, and CBI Navi brands. AB Yachts range consists of semi-displacement yachts from 17.70 to 42 meters.Credits: AB Yachts
June 26, 2025