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Refits in the yachting industry are often reduced to small-scale projects, carried out locally according to the availability of teams and skills. Lagoon's Neo program marks a breakthrough. By organizing an industrial refit of cruising catamarans, the Bénéteau Group subsidiary is exploring an alternative to the production of new boats. Here are the challenges of an initiative that could set a precedent.
A new industrial approach to refit
Renovating a catamaran is nothing new. But doing it on an industrial scale, in a specialized factory, with standardized procedures and a two-year manufacturer's warranty, is a paradigm shift. This is what Lagoon is proposing for its 620 and 630 models, 200 of which were built between 2011 and 2018. A first 620 sailing model served as a demonstrator. The yacht was completely rebuilt at the Group's factory in Monfalcone, Italy.
A rigorous industrial protocol
The Neo process begins with a 30-point audit carried out on the catamaran by a Lagoon team. The aim is to check that the hull is sound and that the boat is suitable for refit. If the green light is given, the catamaran is transferred to Italy for 4 to 6 months of work. Depending on budget, several levels of refit are offered in the form of packages.
This ranges from a light renovation to a complete overhaul of the catamaran's interior and exterior. In this case, the boat is fitted with new engines, sails, upholstery and, above all, modernized electronics and home automation. Generator, watermaker and air conditioning are also included. Not forgetting hull and mast paintwork and a deck covering. On return, the boat comes with a two-year manufacturer's warranty, just like a new unit!
An attractive business model for homeowners
The cost of a complete refit on a Lagoon 620 is around 800,000 euros. This is still less than the price of an equivalent new catamaran, estimated today at around 3 million euros for a Lagoon 60. By 2025, the second-hand market will position the 620 at between 1.1 and 1.9 million euros. Owners can thus extend the life of their boats, while benefiting from the latest equipment and widespread modernization.
An offer tailored to charter fleets
Charter operators will find this offer a viable solution for prolonging the operation of their catamarans. In 2025, a Lagoon 620 from a charter fleet will be the second yacht to benefit from the program. The approach is calibrated to meet the requirements of commercial operation while keeping costs under control.
A circular approach
The site recycles or recovers a large proportion of the equipment it deposits. With reusable parts, equipment redistributed via the Lagoon network or even donated, very little equipment goes to landfill. This helps to reduce the ecological footprint while contributing to a reuse economy.
And tomorrow, which models?
The Neo program is still in its infancy. Lagoon could extend this offer to other models if demand follows. Ideas for future Neo models are already in the pipeline. The Neo range is part of a dynamic that is set to grow.
As a follow-up, Lagoon has set up a questionnaire on its website, inviting current âeuros owners as well as people interested in becoming future âeuros owners to give them indications on which Lagoon model they would like to see enter the Neo program. Based on the results of this survey, the future refit candidate could be chosen. Customers and prospects are therefore involved in the process.
