Fountaine-Pajot introduced new models

French sailboat and catamaran builder, the Fountaine-Pajot Group, hosted an online press conference to launch two new Dufour models and unveil more details about the new FP 51 sailing catamaran; the company’s new investment strategy was also revealed including plans to introduce a carbon-neutral boat by 2030 and €33 million in spending. Deputy Managing Director Romain Motteau provided a brief business review on the builder’s financial status, following a tough year which then turned very positive. The business review was followed by introduction of Dufour’s latest two models which were both recently launched in La Rochelle, where Motteau and members of the Dufour design team walked through the boats, highlighting new features.

New Dufour flagship 61

Dufour’s new 61 flagship was introduced dockside in La Rochelle ready for installation of its sails and the first of a long test sailing program where it will also be introduced to distributors throughout the network. “With a ‘no compromise’ design plan, the boat is both comfortable and fast, while being easy to sail with all the refinements of a flagship,” the team noted including an easy access swim platform, dinghy garage, under deck roller furler and anchor system, ample storage, and extension of the cabin roof up to the mast to allow for more natural light and space below.

Dufour 470

Also showcased on the water during the press conference – as well as under sail on a video clip – the new Dufour 470 was introduced as” the most modern boat in the range, designed as the best balance between comfort and performance.” Offering spacious living area and volume, big windows, new wood finishings, with a wide bowsprit to keep anchor and spinnaker handling out of the way and simple to manage, as well as flexible use of space and furniture in the main cabin and cockpit area for entertaining, including space for cold drinks refrigeration in the cockpit.

Fountaine Pajot 51

The last introduction revealed further details for the new Fountaine Pajot 51 sailing catamaran, which showcases the use of integrated, flush-deck solar panels, providing 2000 watts of energy – enough the company said to power the electronic pack, fridge, cold storage, ice maker, TV and audio equipment, and device chargers. Motteau said the new model would provide the biggest charter boat on the market which could be used for bareboat charter. The boat features an open galley area which can be expanded to the outside dining area with folding glass doors, and multiple cabin configurations.

Pricing and more

During the press conference, Director of Communications Hélène de Fontainieu fielded questions from media participants in America and across Europe, which revealed the pricing of the new models, and plans for the sail testing and touring program, as well as production rates.