A story in ocean racing
Founded in 1999 by Samuel Marsaudon, Marsaudon Composites moved into the former Lorient submarine base in 2001. The company's three imposing naves enable it to produce large-scale parts, with an oven for elements up to 30 m long and 14 m wide.
Initially specializing in models and molds for ocean racing boats, the company has since expanded into the construction of complete boats. For example, the IDEC II, on which Francis Joyon holds the solo round-the-world record, has just left the shipyard in Lorient.
Fast cruising on the rise
High-performance cruising boats are now the shipyard's core business. The TS 42 series is a success, with 10 units sold since the launch at the end of 2014. A TS 48 is currently under development.
Marsaudon Composites is currently building the first example of another fast catamaran, the EOS 54. Again designed with Christophe Barreau, it will be presented at Grand Pavois 2016.
As for charter catamarans, a Catlante 720 is being prepared on the basis of the Catlante 600, to keep pace with the evolution of the charter market towards larger sizes.
A strategic balance
While fast cruising accounts for the lion's share of Marsaudon Composites' sales, the company still has one foot in offshore racing. At the time of our visit, it was carrying out refit work for Qingdao China, ex Idec II. This mix enables Marsaudon Composites to retain its racing know-how and image, which is beneficial to the cruising market.
