From the historic shipbuilding hub of Rochefort-sur-Mer, France, Nautitech Catamarans has carved a distinct niche in the multihull world, renowned for its innovative designs that harmoniously blend exhilarating sailing performance with an emphasis on onboard comfort and social living. Founded in 1994, the shipyard has consistently delivered catamarans that appeal to both seasoned sailors and those seeking spacious, enjoyable cruising experiences.
The Origin Story
Nautitech Catamarans was established in 1994 by Bruno Voisard, a figure widely recognized as a "legend in the catamaran and charter business." The company initially embarked on its journey in partnership with the Dufour Yachts Group, laying the groundwork for its future in catamaran design and construction. Based in Rochefort-sur-Mer, a region deeply steeped in naval architecture and shipbuilding history, Nautitech quickly established its presence. While specific details about their very first model are scarce, the shipyard launched its catamaran line with early designs like the Nautitech 60, showcasing their immediate commitment to multihull craftsmanship. Voisard's vision was to create catamarans that offered robust construction and excellent sailing characteristics, a philosophy that has endured throughout the brand's history.
History and Evolution
Since its inception in 1994, Nautitech Catamarans has undergone significant transformations, refining its designs and expanding its reach. In 2002, the brand experienced a pivotal moment with a takeover, which saw Bruno Voisard's team completely redesign certain models. This period of internal evolution culminated in the launch of the Nautitech 54 in 2011, marking the beginning of what would become their highly successful "current range" of catamarans.
A major turning point arrived in July 2014 when the German shipyard Bavaria Yachts acquired Nautitech Catamarans. This acquisition allowed for the extension of Nautitech's production capabilities and integrated the French catamaran builder into a larger marine manufacturing group. Post-acquisition, Nautitech transitioned from being a "daughter company" to a "sister company" within the Bavaria structure, solidifying its position as an operating subsidiary.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Nautitech Catamarans has cultivated a strong reputation in the sailing world for producing catamarans that strike a remarkable balance between performance and livability. They are known for their "robust" construction and for designing boats that are well-suited for a variety of sailing situations. The core of Nautitech's design identity, and perhaps its most significant contribution to the multihull market, is the pioneering "Open concept."
This innovative design philosophy seamlessly merges the saloon and cockpit into one expansive, functional living area, placing "sharing and circulation on board at the heart of the experience." This integrated space creates an unparalleled sense of openness and connection between indoor and outdoor living. A distinctive feature that emerged with the 44 Open model is the iconic bar concept, which further enhances the communal aspect of their designs.
Behind these distinctive designs is a consistent collaboration with acclaimed naval architects. The Marc Lombard Yacht Design Group has been a long-standing partner, responsible for the exterior design and naval architecture of many of Nautitech's most significant models, including the Nautitech 54, 40 Open, 44 Open, and 48 Open. This collaboration underscores Nautitech's commitment to combining aesthetic appeal with strong sailing performance.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Throughout its history, Nautitech has launched several models that have left a lasting impression on the catamaran market. Following early designs like the Nautitech 60 from 1994, the shipyard truly began to define its modern identity with the introduction of the Nautitech 54 in 2011, hailed as the first of its "current range" with a sleek design.
The "Open" series, spearheaded by the Nautitech 40 Open, launched in 2013, quickly became synonymous with the brand. The 40 Open is praised for its ability to combine "sensations, conviviality and sailing comfort" for those who love to sail while enjoying life aboard. The Nautitech 44 Open further solidified the brand's reputation, introducing a redefined approach to the 44-foot catamaran segment and cementing the integrated bar as an iconic signature. Other notable models include the Nautitech 46 Open, recognized for its exceptional open-concept design and sailing capabilities, and the newer Nautitech 48 Open, positioned as a "luxurious and high-performance catamaran." While specific production figures are not widely publicized, these models have collectively shaped Nautitech's legacy, embodying the shipyard's commitment to design, navigational comfort, and overall excellence.
The Builder Today
Today, Nautitech Catamarans continues to operate as an integral part of the Bavaria Yachts group, functioning as an operating subsidiary. The shipyard maintains its dedication to producing high-quality French-designed catamarans that prioritize the fusion of design, navigational comfort, and performance.
Nautitech's modern boats appeal to a discerning clientele who seek a harmonious balance between the thrill of sailing and the luxury of onboard living. Current models, such as the 2025 edition of the 40 Open, continue to evolve, offering meticulously designed cabins and communal areas that reflect the brand's core values. The company emphasizes the ability to configure each boat to the specific needs of its clients, ensuring a tailored ownership experience. Nautitech aims to elevate the dreams of its owners, fostering an experience where sailing aspirations are met with exceptional and perfectly balanced catamarans.
