Since its inception in 1987, CNB (Construction Navale Bordeaux) has carved out a distinguished niche in the global yachting industry, becoming synonymous with high-end sailing yachts. From its origins in Bordeaux, France, the shipyard has consistently delivered vessels renowned for their blend of performance, elegance, and robust construction, earning a reputation for building "blue water yachts" designed by sailors, for sailors.
CNB was established in Bordeaux, France, in 1987, founded on a vision to create exceptional sailing yachts. Just two years later, in 1989, the shipyard launched its first significant vessel: a 92-foot sailing yacht. This initial undertaking set the stage for CNB's future, signaling its commitment to crafting large, custom-built yachts.
History and Evolution
A pivotal moment in CNB's history occurred in 1992 when the shipyard became part of the formidable Groupe Beneteau, one of the world's largest boat builders. Under Beneteau's ownership, CNB solidified its reputation for producing bespoke "one-off" superyachts, completing 46 custom projects. This era showcased CNB's prowess in tailor-made luxury, setting a high bar for craftsmanship and design.
A significant shift in CNB's strategy came in 2009 with the launch of the Bordeaux 60. This model marked the shipyard's transition from exclusively custom builds to introducing a semi-custom range, leveraging its extensive expertise in larger yacht construction. The Bordeaux 60 quickly gained traction, becoming a cornerstone of their new offering. This move allowed CNB to make its distinctive quality and design more accessible to a broader, albeit still discerning, clientele.
The most recent chapter in CNB's story began in 2021 when the Italian shipyard Solaris Yachts acquired the brand from Groupe Beneteau. This acquisition saw CNB's production relocate from Bordeaux to Monfalcone, Italy, where Solaris is based. The new ownership under Solaris aims to combine the strengths of both brands, fostering the development of new models ranging from 40 to 110 feet.
Design Philosophy and Identity
CNB has cultivated a reputation for building sophisticated, fast, and exceptionally seaworthy sailing yachts, embodying a philosophy of "design by sailors, for sailors." The brand is known for its timeless elegance, performance capabilities, and the robust construction required for serious bluewater cruising. The shipyard's commitment to quality is evident in its interior finishes, where the level of artisan mastery and assembly quality is often compared to that of lute makers rather than typical industrial standards.
A key collaborator in defining the CNB aesthetic and performance has been the renowned naval architect Philippe Briand. Briand has been instrumental in designing many of CNB's iconic models, contributing to their balanced, powerful, and fast sailing characteristics. For interior design, CNB has frequently partnered with Jean-Marc Piaton of Cabinet Piaton Yacht Design, known for creating spacious and owner-centric layouts.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Throughout its history, CNB has produced several highly successful and recognizable models that have left a lasting impact on the luxury sailing yacht market. While initially celebrated for its custom superyachts (with 46 such projects culminating in the 2008 launch of CHRISCO), CNB's semi-custom range truly expanded its reach.
Key models in the semi-custom lineup include:
- Bordeaux 60: Launched in 2009, this was the first model of CNB's semi-custom range and quickly became a popular choice for serious cruisers.
- CNB 66: Designed to be easily handled by a family crew, the CNB 66 offers a welcoming atmosphere without compromising on performance or safety.
- CNB 76: Known for its safe and fast sailing capabilities, the CNB 76 was conceived as a reliable long-distance cruising yacht.
- CNB 78: This model refines the concept of an offshore sailing yacht, offering generous accommodations and maintaining the brand's signature style and functionality.
- CNB 88: A true superyacht, the CNB 88 aims to provide a safe, fast, and comfortable experience for extended voyages, offering spacious owner and guest cabins.
- CNB 62: One of the newer additions, the CNB 62, designed by Philippe Briand and Jean-Marc Piaton, continues the tradition of creating vessels ideal for safe and comfortable long-distance sailing.
These models, characterized by their performance, comfort, and timeless lines, have solidified CNB's position as a leader in the luxury bluewater cruising segment.
The Builder Today
Today, CNB operates under the ownership of Solaris Yachts, an Italian boat builder that acquired the brand from Groupe Beneteau in 2021. This transition has integrated CNB into the Solaris Group, which shares a similar passion for sailing and commitment to quality. The move has shifted production of CNB yachts to Solaris's facilities in Monfalcone, Italy.
Under Solaris, CNB continues to target discerning sailors who prioritize performance, safety, and luxurious comfort for long-distance cruising. The current lineup, including the CNB 78 and CNB 88 (projects initiated in 2022), and the newly launched CNB 62, maintains the brand's legacy while benefiting from Solaris's fifty years of craftsmanship and innovation. The fusion of CNB's established design excellence with Solaris's construction expertise promises a compelling future for these highly regarded yachts. CNB yachts are still seen as embodying the "perfect balance" of modern and classic, performance-oriented yet seaworthy, and ultimately timeless.
