A demanding end-of-studies project
Accompanied by several industry professionals - Christophe Barreau, Yannick d'Armancourt, Olivier Mousselon and Frédéric Neuman - the project led by Meven gradually refined its design. The aim: to combine sailing performance with simplicity of construction. Developed in collaboration with Malo Huberdeau and Clovis Eyraud, the Laouen 550 features a neatly trimmed hull, elaborate chines and a layout that provides comfortable bivouac space for two people on board.
A career marked by a passion for sailing
From an early age, Meven has been immersed in family sailing, notably during a circumnavigation of the Atlantic. His experience on a variety of craft, from windsurfing to the Open 5.70, as well as the renovation of a Gib'Sea 80+ and a Half Ton, has given him an in-depth knowledge of the nautical world.
A keen competitor, he distinguished himself by taking second place in the Spi Ouest-France and winning the Transmanche race. At the end of high school, his choice of career path was clear: to become a naval architect. After hesitating between Southampton and ENSTA Bretagne, he opted for Brest, convinced by its technical and maritime environment.
Training combining theory and professional immersion
As part of the mechanical engineering curriculum at ENSTA, Meven opted for a sandwich course, considering this approach to be ideal for combining theory and practice. His time at JPK Composites enabled him to deepen his design and manufacturing skills. After two intense years, including six months in Cowes, England, he returned to France with a refined vision of naval architecture.
A fun day boat on a budget
The Laouen 550 is the fruit of this experience. In consultation with naval architects and professionals, the team worked on a design respecting precise constraints: a defined maximum length, the possibility of bivouacking and a construction accessible to amateurs.
Constructed from epoxy plywood, it combines lightness and sturdiness. With a displacement of 200 kg, it has a sail area of 18 m² upwind and 34 m² downwind. These characteristics promise gliding sensations close to those of a Fireball. Its design incorporates a minimalist cabin and hull shapes optimized for both sailing and rowing, offering users an ultra-versatile program.
The success of this project illustrates the ingenuity and passion of a generation of young engineers, determined to make sailing more accessible and efficient. An adventure that undoubtedly marks the start of a promising career in naval architecture.
At the same time, Meven is preparing for the start of the next Mini Transat, a natural extension of this first experience in architecture and sailing. Calling all partners!
