Nestled on France's Atlantic coast, near the historic maritime hub of La Rochelle, Latitude 46 has carved a distinguished niche in the global yachting industry. Renowned for its exquisite "neo-retro" vessels, the shipyard seamlessly blends the timeless allure of classic lines with the performance and comfort of modern technology. For decades, Latitude 46 has been synonymous with elegant day boats and luxurious motor yachts, appealing to discerning owners worldwide.
The Origin Story
The journey of Latitude 46 began in 1987 when Philippe Joubert, a graduate of prestigious Parisian art schools, founded the shipyard. Joubert's vision was to marry the aesthetic grace of traditional boats with contemporary construction techniques and performance. This artistic background profoundly influenced the company's design philosophy, focusing on refined aesthetics and meticulous detailing. Prior to establishing Latitude 46, Joubert acquired the "Cantiere Navale de l'Ile" (Shipyard of the Island) in 1982, setting the stage for his new venture.
While the "Tofinou" name itself has earlier historical roots, Latitude 46 is credited with bringing it to global prominence. The Tofinou 7, a legendary sailing yacht, stands as a foundational model for Latitude 46, becoming the blueprint for its acclaimed line of day boats. This initial vessel encapsulated Joubert's commitment to creating boats that were both beautiful to behold and exhilarating to sail.
History and Evolution
From its inception, Latitude 46 distinguished itself by embracing Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) for hulls while lavishing interiors and decks with generous amounts of teak and mahogany. This strategic combination ensured structural integrity and ease of maintenance, paired with an undeniable classic yacht aesthetic.
A significant milestone in the company's history occurred in 2013 when Latitude 46 faced financial challenges and was acquired by the French company Experton-Revollier SA, which also owned the Wauquiez shipyard. Despite this corporate change, Philippe Joubert remained at the helm, continuing to manage Latitude 46 and later taking on the management of Wauquiez as well. This continuity ensured that the shipyard's core values and design philosophy persisted, maintaining the distinctive character of Latitude 46 boats.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Latitude 46 has cultivated a sterling reputation in the sailing world for its distinctive "neo-retro" or "neoclassical" design ethos. The brand is celebrated for producing elegant day sailers and comfortable weekenders, as well as luxury sailing and motor yachts. Their vessels are instantly recognizable by their clean lines, low freeboards, and exquisite timberwork, which evokes the golden age of yachting while incorporating modern performance.
A cornerstone of Latitude 46's design identity is its enduring collaboration with the acclaimed French naval architecture firm Joubert-Nivelt. Michel Joubert and Bernard Nivelt, renowned for their elegant and efficient designs, have been instrumental in shaping the aesthetics and performance of the Tofinou range and the classic motor yachts built by Latitude 46. This partnership ensures that each boat not only possesses timeless beauty but also delivers exceptional sailing characteristics.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Latitude 46's legacy is most prominently embodied by its Tofinou and Andreyale ranges.
The Tofinou line of sailing yachts is arguably the brand's most iconic. Models such as the Tofinou 7, 7.9, 8, 9.5, 9.7, 10, 12, and the newer 16, exemplify the ideal day sailer or weekend cruiser. The Tofinous are celebrated for their ease of handling, spirited performance, and the sheer joy of sailing. Their open cockpits, elegant coamings, and flush decks, often adorned with teak, make them highly desirable for coastal cruising and regattas. The Tofinou 7, in particular, is noted as the original model that truly defined the contemporary day boat line for the shipyard.
Beyond sailing yachts, Latitude 46 also produces the Andreyale line of classic motor yachts. These vessels, such as the Andreyale 12M and 15M, are reminiscent of vintage steamboats, offering a blend of nostalgic charm and modern comfort. With interiors typically featuring rich mahogany and teak, Andreyale yachts exude a timeless sophistication, appealing to those who appreciate classic elegance on the water.
While specific overall production numbers for each model are not readily available, the enduring popularity and presence of Tofinou and Andreyale yachts in prestigious marinas and regattas worldwide attest to their significant impact on the industry and their success in appealing to a niche market of discerning owners.
The Builder Today
Today, Latitude 46 continues its tradition of crafting high-end, classic-inspired yachts from its base in Saint-Martin-de-Ré, France. Despite the change in ownership to Experton-Revollier SA, Philippe Joubert's passion and influence have helped maintain the shipyard's unique identity. The modern boats produced by Latitude 46, particularly the Tofinou range, continue to appeal to sailors who value elegant design, exceptional craftsmanship, and spirited performance in a manageable, aesthetically pleasing package.
The ownership experience is characterized by a commitment to quality and a love for classic yachting. While no formal "owner community" was identified through direct search, the very nature of these distinctive boats fosters a sense of camaraderie among owners who share an appreciation for timeless marine design and exquisite detailing. Latitude 46's ongoing presence in the luxury yacht market confirms its enduring legacy as a builder of "haute couture" vessels for those who seek both beauty and performance on the water.
