Getting started in ocean racing
The early 1980s saw a boom in competitive sailing, with the emergence of new classes of racing yachts such as Formula 40s, maxi yachts and ocean-racing multihulls.
The Jeanneau shipyard seized the opportunity by creating the JTA department, for Jeanneau Techniques Avancées, to position itself in this booming market and meet the needs of top-level sailors. This initiative has enabled the shipyard to develop high-performance racing yachts, designed with innovative construction processes and recognition in this emerging market.
But ocean racing hit a slump in 1984, and JTA had to find new projects to keep its production facilities running. An order for a large cruising catamaran, designed by VPLP, enabled JTA to make up for the drop in ocean racing activity.
Christened Lagoon by her owner, this catamaran measures 55 feet. It is built in sandwich construction with Kevlar reinforcements. With her sleek lines and decent performance for her time, the first Lagoon was a real eye-catcher, and other orders soon followed.
The cruising catamaran was still in its infancy, and demand was non-existent. But sensing a promising market, a dedicated production unit was set up at JTA.
The Lagoon 55's shortcomings, namely limited habitability, will be corrected on subsequent models. The Lagoon 57 and Lagoon 47 will take on the qualities of their predecessor, while adding more welcoming features.
After Jeanneau went into liquidation in the 90s, Lagoon production was taken over by Bénéteau. The Vendée-based manufacturer anticipated the cruising catamaran's huge potential and gave the brand the means to establish itself on the world market.
In the early 2000s, Lagoon launched its first motor catamarans, the Lagoon Power 43 and Lagoon Power 44. These trawlers, equipped with semi-planing hulls, quickly found their clientele.
An innovative worksite
Lagoon pioneered the use of flybridges on cruising catamarans. The Lagoon 440 was the first catamaran under 45 feet to be equipped with this feature, which has now become commonplace on many models.
The use of hybrid diesel-electric propulsion systems is another important Lagoon innovation. This system combines a diesel engine with an electric motor to improve the energy efficiency of the combustion engine operating at constant speed, and reduce fuel consumption. This technology was introduced on the Lagoon 420 hybrid in 2007, when the shipyard faced a number of technical difficulties. Today's widespread use of this technology shows its pioneering nature.
Finally, moving the mast step further aft on the Lagoon 52 enabled us to modify the sail plan and adapt a self-tacking jib. This innovation set a trend, making sailing easier and more enjoyable.
The Lagoon 380, a best-seller
Produced between 1999 and 2008, over 800 Lagoon 380s were built. With its finned hulls, the youngest Lagoon was a great success with charterers and yachtsmen alike. Its single-level layout between cockpit and saloon, separated by a simple sliding door, made a strong impression on the competition.
Its reliability and ease of manoeuvring make it one of the most sought-after catamarans on the market, whether for a charter program or long-distance cruising.
Made in France
Since 1984, Lagoon has produced over 6,000 catamarans. Today, the yard offers 7 models of sailing catamarans, from 40 to 70 feet, and two models of 70 and 80-foot motoryachts. Around 400 units are produced each year, both in France. One is located in Belleville sur Vie, and concentrates on the smallest models in the range.
The other, dedicated to the brand's largest models, is located on the banks of the Garonne at CNB's Bordeaux premises. The Bordeaux facility covers an area of almost 100,000 m2, and boasts a 300 m quay for preparing catamarans after launch. More than 1,200 employees are at work to ensure production and sales of around 300 million euros.
