Olympic Marine commenced its journey in 1969, establishing itself in Lavrio, Greece. Initially known as Olympic Yachts, the company quickly emerged as a significant Greek shipbuilder, focusing on a range of sailboats and other vessels. While the specific founder's name and their initial detailed vision are not widely documented, the company's rapid expansion in its early years suggests a strong foundational drive to become a key player in the burgeoning yachting scene of the Mediterranean.
History and Evolution
The 1970s marked a period of significant growth and modernization for Olympic Marine. The marina facilities were substantially extended, technical equipment received a major upgrade, and new shipbuilding methods were implemented. This era saw the company's staff swell to approximately 500 individuals, leading to an impressive production rate of over 300 yachts annually with the support of an international engineering team.
During this vibrant period, Olympic Marine also expanded its reach across the Atlantic, establishing a Canadian subsidiary known as Olympic Yachts of Canada. This North American arm was responsible for building various sailing cruisers, including the notable OLYMPIC DOLPHIN.
A crucial aspect of Olympic Marine's evolution in boat construction was its adoption and advancement in materials. Early boats primarily utilized fiberglass, often incorporating marine plywood for structural elements, with wooden parts meticulously encapsulated in hand-rolled fiberglass. A testament to their progressive approach was the Olympic Sea 42, which famously incorporated ARAMAT K, an advanced material combining optical fiber and Kevlar, developed by Jeanneau and Du Pont de Nemours.
A pivotal moment in the company's recent history occurred in 2019 when Olympic Marine strategically renovated and rebranded its shipyard division to launch Omikron Yachts. This marked a significant shift, with a new focus on building long-range motor yachts, such as their pioneering OT-60 model. Over its extensive history, the original Olympic Yachts shipyard built more than 2,000 sailboats, alongside providing comprehensive repair and refitting services.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Olympic Marine's reputation in the sailing world was forged through its consistent production of robust and reliable vessels. Historically, the company was particularly known for its center cockpit sailboats. Beyond larger yachts, the "Olympic Boats" division also gained recognition for manufacturing quality pleasure motor boats, typically ranging from 4 to 6 meters, with designs spanning center console and walk-around configurations. These smaller craft emphasized smart design, optimal running performance, and unmatched style.
The builder’s commitment to quality was evident in their material choices and construction techniques, notably the use of durable fiberglass and the integration of advanced composites like ARAMAT K for enhanced hull strength and performance.
Throughout its history, Olympic Marine has collaborated with esteemed naval architects. A prime example is the collaboration with American maritime architect Douglas Blair Peterson, who designed the iconic Olympic Sea 42. The company emphasizes partnering with "the best designers, architects and shipyards" and maintains a team of naval architects, designers, and engineers on-site, particularly for its refit and new build projects. This collaborative approach ensures that their vessels, whether historical or modern, benefit from cutting-edge design and engineering expertise, as seen in the collaborative naval architecture for projects like the Argo 54.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Olympic Marine's legacy is defined by several highly successful and recognizable boat models that sailed the Mediterranean and beyond:
- OLYMPIC 33 / Carter 33: This sailing yacht, which began production around 1972, became a notable model for Olympic Marine. Known for its center-cockpit design, the Olympic 33, also referred to as the Carter 33, cemented the builder's reputation for capable cruising yachts.
- OLYMPIC SEA 42: Introduced in the late 1980s, the Olympic Sea 42 stands out not only for its generous proportions (42 ft) and comfortable interior (featuring three cabins and two bathrooms) but also for its innovative construction. Its hull's use of ARAMAT K underscored Olympic Marine's embrace of advanced materials for performance and durability.
- OLYMPIC DOLPHIN: While built by the Canadian subsidiary, Olympic Yachts of Canada, the OLYMPIC DOLPHIN represented the broader reach and design influence of the Olympic brand during the 1970s, contributing to its international footprint.
- Omikron OT-60: Representing the company's contemporary shipbuilding prowess under the Omikron Yachts brand, the OT-60 is a pioneering long-range motor yacht. It has already garnered prestigious accolades, including the European Powerboat Award for Long Range yachts, signifying Olympic Marine's successful transition into a new segment of the market.
The sheer volume of vessels produced, with over 2,000 sailboats built by the original Olympic Yachts shipyard until the late 1990s, speaks to Olympic Marine's significant impact on the industry. Their commitment to both production and comprehensive marine services has made them a cornerstone of Greece's maritime sector.
The Builder Today
Today, Olympic Marine has transformed into one of the most comprehensive and modern yachting centers in the southeastern Mediterranean. Located strategically at Lavrio, Attica, it offers unparalleled accessibility, being just 30 minutes from Athens International Airport.
Olympic Marine's current operations are multifaceted, encompassing a vast marina with fixed and floating berths for all types of vessels, from smaller boats to large superyachts. Beyond berthing, the company excels as a full-service center, offering 360-degree services including comprehensive shipyard repairs, maintenance, and acclaimed refit services, supported by an award-winning team. Their capability extends to overseeing superyacht projects from design to inauguration, collaborating with top shipyards internationally.
While the historical focus was on building sailboats, the launch of Omikron Yachts in 2019 signals Olympic Marine's renewed commitment to boat manufacturing, now specializing in long-range motor yachts. These modern vessels appeal to owners seeking the tranquil cruising experience of sailing combined with the convenience and spaciousness of a power yacht.
Olympic Marine also serves as a vibrant hub for the yachting community, hosting significant events such as the Olympic Yacht Show, which continues to grow in scale and international recognition. This dedication to both advanced marine services and innovative new builds solidifies Olympic Marine's position as a dynamic and integral part of the global marine industry, ensuring a premium experience for yacht owners and enthusiasts alike.
