Amel: Pioneering Sailboats Built for Global Navigation
For over half a century, Amel Shipyard has led the industry in designing and manufacturing travel boats. Notable among Amel’s revered models are the Super Maramu, Amel Sharki, and Santorin, emblematic of bluewater cruising. Another standout is the Amel 54, renowned for its sleek design and luxurious amenities, reflecting the shipyard’s commitment to excellence in luxury sailing craftsmanship.
A Legacy of Quality and Comfort
Henri Amel, born Henri Tonnet, dedicated his life to boatbuilding, driven by his childhood passion. Despite losing his sight for several years due to war injuries, his resilience fueled a commitment to creating sturdy, safe, and easily maneuverable sailing vessels. After acquiring the Ateliers Rochelais de Polyester Industriel et Naval in 1963, Amel prospered under his leadership. An avid navigator himself, Henri instilled a paternalistic ethos in the company, even distributing shares among employees upon his departure in 1980. Following his passing in 2005, the shipyard’s boats bear the revered name “AMEL.”
Craftsmanship Focused on Excellence and Comfort
Henri Amel was a pioneer in polyester construction, championing techniques that ensured watertightness and durability. The shipyard’s meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout its vessels, with continuous innovations aimed at enhancing comfort and safety. Features like forward stations with watertight doors and anti-shock rudders underscore Amel’s commitment to practicality and reliability, making their boats synonymous with comfort and dependability on the water.
A Range Tailored for Exploration
Since the 1960s, Amel has cultivated expertise in polyester use, launching a range of monohulls and ketches tailored for long-distance cruising. From the Euros 39 in 1968 to the best-selling Maramu, each vessel reflects Amel’s dedication to providing sailors with exceptional travel experiences.
Authentic French Craftsmanship
With a turnover of approximately 24 million euros and a team of 130 skilled artisans, Amel’s shipyard in Périgny epitomizes French craftsmanship. Every aspect of production, from lamination to carpentry, is meticulously executed in-house. This commitment to excellence ensures that each Amel boat undergoes rigorous testing before leaving the workshop, guaranteeing unparalleled quality and performance.
A Modern Offering: Amel 50 and Amel 60
In line with their tradition of excellence, Amel’s current offerings include the Amel 50 and Amel 60 models. Released in 2017 and 2019 respectively, these vessels epitomize the brand’s ethos while abandoning the traditional ketch rig. With plush accommodations and refined design, they continue Amel’s legacy of providing luxurious yet seaworthy vessels for sailors worldwide.
