Born from a sailor’s dream, the Privilège Marine shipyard is now synonymous with one thing: the ultra-luxury catamaran built in France. Over forty years, the Les Sables-d’Olonne-based brand has established itself as the global benchmark for yachtsmen who refuse to choose between comfort, offshore safety and refined aesthetics. Here is its story.
The origins: when Philippe Jeantot dreamed of a catamaran for his family (1985)
The Privilège shipyard was founded in 1985 by Philippe Jeantot, an internationally renowned professional sailor. A two-time world champion in solo racing, Jeantot also founded the famous Vendée Globe race. Yet the shipyard originated from a personal project: he wanted to design a catamaran for his own family, combining safety at sea, generous living space and finishes worthy of the finest builders. Privilège’s DNA was established from day one: boats inspired by racing, designed for cruising.
The brand’s growth: European leader in less than ten years (1989–2000)
By 1989, Privilège had established itself as Europe’s leading builder of cruising catamarans and quickly gained a foothold in the American market. Its build quality and meticulous attention to interior design appealed to a discerning international clientele. The brand soon began winning awards:
- International Quality Trophy in 1992
- Privilège 45 and 42 named “Boats of the Year” in the United States in 1995 and 1996
In 1996, under Alliaura Marine, the range expanded further with models over 15 metres. The flagship Privilège 745 embodied this ambition: a 23-metre bespoke luxury catamaran delivered to owners around the world. The brand had already delivered more than 60 units ranging from 18 to 23 metres.
From Privilège to Privilège Marine: resilience and renewal (2012–2024)
In 2012, the shipyard changed its name to Privilège Marine following its acquisition by Société Vendéenne de Capital Investissement (VCI). This turning point marked a new visual identity and a strategy built around emotion and the sailing experience.
In 2017, Privilège Marine joined the HanseYachts AG group alongside the Dehler, Moody, Fjord and Sealine brands. This partnership enabled the shipyard to benefit from the German group’s industrial expertise and global distribution network, while launching a complete overhaul of the range with three new models: the Signature 510, Signature 580 and Series 650.
In 2024, a new chapter began: Privilège Marine was acquired by the Czech investment fund PPF Group, already active in the leisure boating sector through Dream Yacht Charter and Robertson & Caine. Under this new ownership, the shipyard reaffirmed its positioning: luxury catamarans built in France, custom-designed in the spirit of bluewater cruising.
The Privilège philosophy: luxury, customisation and offshore safety
What sets Privilège apart from other catamaran builders is, above all, its offshore racing heritage applied to luxury cruising. Each yacht is designed to cross oceans safely, with robust structures, watertight bulkheads and a deck layout conceived for short-handed sailing. On board, the interiors are fully customisable: wood finishes, fabrics, cabin layouts… every Privilège is unique, reflecting its owner.
The current Privilège Marine range
Privilège Marine currently offers a range of catamarans from 50 to over 65 feet, each customisable to the owner’s specifications. Discover the full range on the official Privilège Marine website.
Signature 510
The entry-level model in the range, with no compromise on luxury. A 50-foot catamaran designed for couples or small families who wish to cruise long distances in complete autonomy. Its optimised hull design provides remarkable seakeeping performance.
Signature 580
The flagship model of the range. A 58-foot catamaran combining elegance and strength, designed for long-distance passages. Its spacious, customisable interiors make it the preferred choice for owners cruising with family or guest crews over extended distances.
Signature 600
The newest addition to the range, the 600 stands out as a true passagemaker capable of doing it all: offshore passages, extended stays at anchor, and long-term liveaboard cruising. Its design, combining lightness and strength, reflects the offshore racing heritage established by Philippe Jeantot.
Série 650
The current flagship. A 65-foot ultra-luxury catamaran, fully custom-built, with living spaces worthy of a high-end apartment. A rare yacht designed for the most demanding owners.
Euphorie 5 — the power catamaran
The Euphorie 5 is the power version of the Privilège Series 5: the same hull, the same architecture, but without a rig and topped with a panoramic flybridge. This 50-foot power catamaran is equipped with twin diesel engines ranging from 220 to 320 hp depending on the version, delivering a cruising speed of 15 knots and a top speed of over 21 knots. Its three living levels, bespoke finishes and proven seakeeping qualities make it the ideal choice for those who want to enjoy long-distance cruising without the constraints of sailing. It was nominated for “Multihull of the Year 2019” upon its launch.
The most iconic pre-owned Privilège catamarans
The legendary robustness of Privilège catamarans makes them highly sought-after yachts on the pre-owned market. Here are the most desirable models:
Privilège 745
The shipyard’s historic flagship. A 23-metre custom-built catamaran produced in very limited numbers. Exceptional interior volume and an unmatched presence at sea. Extremely rare on the pre-owned market.
Privilège 585
17.5 metres of elegance and safety. Highly regarded for its strong seakeeping qualities and luxurious interior accommodations, making it ideal for long-distance passages with family or crew.
Privilège 465
14 metres of versatility. One of the most common models on the pre-owned market. Highly appreciated by families for its four spacious cabins and ease of handling. An excellent first large cruising catamaran.
Privilège 435
13 metres of manageable and robust cruising. Perfect for a couple or a short-handed crew. Easy to helm and maintain, the 435 is often the ideal entry point into the Privilège world.
Looking for a pre-owned Privilège catamaran? Elissa Yachting selects the best boats on the market for you and guides you through every step from search to sale. Contact us for a personalized selection and a free valuation.
