From its roots in the passion of a world-renowned sailor to its current standing as a purveyor of luxurious bluewater catamarans, Privilege Catamarans has carved a distinct niche in the marine industry. Known for their robust construction, comfortable interiors, and exceptional stability, Privilege yachts have long been the vessel of choice for discerning cruisers seeking to explore the world's oceans in style and safety.
The story of Privilege Catamarans begins in 1985 with the founding of Jeantot Marine by two visionary figures: René Bernard and the celebrated French single-handed sailor, Philippe Jeantot. Jeantot, a two-time world champion in single-handed sailing and the innovative founder of the iconic Vendée Globe round-the-world race, brought a wealth of practical offshore experience to the drawing board. His original motivation for venturing into boat building was deeply personal: he sought to design a cruising catamaran for his own family to live aboard during their travels, prioritizing comfort, strength, and security above all else. This foundational vision of a robust, comfortable, and secure platform for extended voyages has remained a cornerstone of the Privilege brand's philosophy. While a specific "first model" isn't explicitly named, the Privilege 37 is recognized as one of their earliest offerings.
History and Evolution
Jeantot Marine quickly gained traction, and by 1989, the shipyard had established itself as a leading builder of cruising catamarans. Its presence was particularly strong in the American market, where it became a benchmark for the industry.
The company's journey has seen several significant corporate transitions. In 1996, Jeantot Marine was sold to La Groupe SGGR, which subsequently led to the formation of Alliaura Marine. During this era, Privilege catamarans continued to be produced, maintaining their reputation for quality and seaworthiness. From 2012, Privilege Marine was under the control of Gilles Wagner. A pivotal moment arrived in May 2017 when the renowned German HanseYachts Group acquired the Privilege brand, along with its molds and shipyard. This acquisition was seen as an effort by HanseYachts to diversify its portfolio into the luxury catamaran market. However, in a more recent development, HanseYachts AG announced its decision to divest the Privilège brand. The brand was subsequently acquired by PPF Group, a Czech international diversified investment company, marking a new chapter in Privilege Marine's history.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Privilege Catamarans has cultivated a reputation for producing high-quality, luxurious, and highly capable bluewater cruising catamarans. The brand is synonymous with craftsmanship and elegant design, appealing to those who desire both opulent living spaces and the robust performance required for long-distance voyages.
A hallmark of Privilege design over the years has been the innovative placement of the large owner's suite in the forward nacelle. This distinctive feature not only maximizes living space but also contributes to the yacht's overall stability at sea. The refined hull designs are meticulously crafted to ensure superb stability and comfort, even in challenging conditions.
While Philippe Jeantot himself was instrumental in designing many of the earlier Privilege models, the brand has continued to collaborate with talented naval architects. More recently, designers like Marc Lombard have evolved the Privilege principles, contributing to the designs of contemporary models such as the Signature 510 and Signature 580. Privilege catamarans are not merely boats; they are described as "a statement: the statement to enjoy luxurious life beyond coastal borders."
Iconic Models and Legacy
Throughout its history, Privilege has launched a range of significant and successful models that have cemented its legacy in the catamaran world. Among the notable boats are the Privilege 37, one of their early productions, and the Privilege 482, which remains a popular model on the secondhand market. The Privilege 745 is also recognized as a famous later model. The Privilege 65, built during the Alliaura Marine era, is widely considered one of the most impressive catamarans ever built.
In more recent times, the Privilege Signature line, including the Signature 510 and Signature 580, has garnered considerable attention for its contemporary design and luxurious appointments. The brand currently offers a range of models typically spanning from 51 to 65 feet, catering to various cruising programs. These models are designed to offer exceptional comfort, space, and a refined sailing experience, reflecting the brand's unwavering commitment to luxury and bluewater capability.
The Builder Today
As of its most recent transition, Privilège Marine is under the ownership of the Czech investment company, PPF Group. This change signifies a new strategic direction for the shipyard, with an emphasis on further developing and expanding its production of luxury catamarans.
Today, Privilege continues to appeal to discerning yachtsmen and women who seek a high-end, bespoke cruising experience. Their modern catamarans are designed for long-distance voyages, offering unparalleled comfort, stability, and personalized luxury. The brand prides itself on delivering a refined ownership experience, providing meticulously crafted yachts that enable owners to truly live and explore beyond coastal confines. The current range of Privilege catamarans, including models like the Signature 510 and Signature 580, continues to uphold the legacy of their founders, offering a blend of robust construction, elegant design, and exceptional bluewater performance.
