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At Amel Yachts of La Rochelle

  • May 24th, 2018
  • On Location

When it comes to sailing and boat building, France may be the hotspot of yachts and yacht design with a focus on “la grand large” – the big tour. Which is no wonder since this country is bathed by the notorious British Channel, the mighty Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean. Looking at France´s history there is a glorious and long period of overseas travel and their share in the grave history of colonialism and of course a – still vivid – very tight relationship to the sea in terms of fishing. No wonder that this nation is crazy about sailing. And no wonder that, especially along the Atlantic coast, a staggering number of yacht builders have their home. Such at Amel of La Rochelle.

where are amel yachts built

As it happens I was down there for another meeting at Beneteau when during some hours of spare time I spontaneously grabbed the phone and dialled Amel´s number. Five minutes later a very friendly Madame from the marketing department agreed to show me around. That´s what I love so much about France: Their strong pride in everything they do, be it the Boulangerie next door or the boat yard – if you ask, they will happily show you around. A long coastal traffic jam later I arrived – one hour late – but Stephanie waited and smiled upon arrival: Closing time of the yard, yet still she took her time off of her well-deserved evening spare time to show me her yard. I felt welcome, embraced and honoured. What a great entree!

Aboard the Amel 50

What makes the legend of an Amel? I rarely see these yachts in our home-ports and marinas of the North but of course reading blogs and circumnavigation-stories (first to mention the crew of DELOS, of course) there´s a good chance that these people fancy the Amel. But why? Upon taking the captain´s chair in the doghouse of one finished Amel 50 I begin to understand what an Amel yacht is setting apart from other blue water cruisers .

where are amel yachts built

The yard was founded 1963 by Henri Amel (originally named Henri Tonet) who was born back in 1913. Amel took over a then existing workshop and transformed it. His goal was – and it still is the core value of Amel today – to make easy to sail, sturdy and yet comfortable sailing yachts. From the beginning Amel was making thing very differently than other yards. For example, he utilized his own glass fibre mats, was laminating (not glueing) bulkheads to the hulls and used Polyester-resin. The focus was set on long distance cruising very early and Amel spezialized in making large boats.

where are amel yachts built

His boats fast became a brand in sailing. Partially boosted by the fact that the Amel yachts featured the Ketch-rigg, so to say, the twin-masted configuration of a sailing yacht. This was up until the late Sixties a very common rigg as it was considered to be most versatile to adapt to the different situations out on the ocean but later almost completely replaced by the sloop-rigging which can be seen as the standard in yachting today. Sitting in a bran-new Amel 50 this brings me back to the big fuzz about Amel two years ago when the new 50 was introduced with a big bang: The first sloop of Amel in more than 10 years!

where are amel yachts built

Despite being a sloop, the new 50 completely adheres to Amel´s core values and features everything that always was part of a boat produced in Perigny/La Rochelle: These yachts are solely made for the travelling couple, will feature a big, big aft owner´s cabin, a large deep center-guest area outside and a very safe and secured helming position under a rigid, massive doghouse. To name just a few points. A half-finished Amel 50 raises my interest and I board the boat.

Amel´s Approach to perfect Blue Water Cruising

She is a 50-footer and I would more and more agree to say that 50 feet is just the perfect size for a couple or a family to go on a multi-year voyage around the world or to cruise the Oceans. 50 feet offers enough internal volume to house sufficient big cabins and a living area worth it´s name. And right so, the Amel 50 is proof of that. Upon entering the salon is wide and welcoming. On the port side, facing foward, a large working area (I wouldn´t call it solely nav station is adjoined by the U-settee with a nice large dining table. Facing this cosy corner is an evenly cosy settee to starboard side. What I loved most was the galley though.

where are amel yachts built

It´s a deep longitudinal galley that much reminded me of other classic long haul sailing yachts, like the Oyster – two steps down and near the center of gravity of the boat at the pivot point of the hull, it would be the perfect location for the galley. In the Amel 50 there will be loads and loads of stowage, a nice, very big working top with sinks, a big oven and freezing/cooling capacities all over the place. The big porthole will make for a great view outside both at anchor or underway.

where are amel yachts built

Also great the navigation station with the main switch panel and technical controls of the ship. Of course, the Amel 50 is a push button-boat with lots of electric stuff and energy-intensive equipment (if ordered by her owners of course) and so there´s need of an area to have it all controlled. The working station consists of the main switch board which is integrated into the rear bulkhead running all around the corner featuring the technical equipment for underway: Plotter, VHF , AIS and all the stuff. The nice chart table will be partially covered in fine leatherworks. What I love most about this nav station is the two-seater settee instead of a lone stool.

where are amel yachts built

I will take a thorough look at the cabins later but from what I have seen so far from the Amel´s internal layout I must judge that it is true: These boats aren´t meant to go to charter companies or professionals. These are real owner´s boats tailored to suit the demands of a private owner fulfilling his dream of a long sailing trip. Everything I see is done in a rigid way, built to last, as to say. Lots of massive wooden parts, big screws, massive steel handles. I am much impressed by the sturdiness of the building quality and begin to understand why Amel has such a tight standing and loyal fan base of sailors all around the world.

where are amel yachts built

We leave the parking space for half/finished boats and Stephanie insists to show us how the yachts are actually made. As we cross the large yard compound that is consisting of multiple big halls, I ask her how many of these boats are produced here in la Rochelle annually. She tells me that around 15 boats from the “small” 50 and two to four units of the larger 55 and 64 models are built here per year. This is quite a nice number! As we walk on I am surprised by the cleanliness of the area and the fact that they have nicely curbed flower beds and an overall very much cultivated outward appearance – it looks not just like a yard, more like a nice big backyard with lots of yachts. Then she finally opens a door and we stand in the middle of where the Amel is born.

Sturdiness and Seaworthiness: Amel yachts for going everywhere

Amel yachts are made of GRP with a foam core. The rigid lamination is done by vacuum infusion process and utilizes common state of the art techniques. As we enter the production facility for hulls I smell the familiar odour of resin and hardener components, but not that much as the building is ventilated – this kind of air conditioning is providing for the best possible air temperature and humidity for that the newly built hulls could harden the best possible way.

where are amel yachts built

Amel yachts, starting at the smalles 50 all the way up through the three-boat range to the 64 feet boat are done with female moulds. The moulds are consisting of two halves which will make separation process easier as the hull can be taken out by just setting the moulds apart: No crane and no brute force for separation needed here. It is worth noting that the Amel yard is just a 10 minute walk away from the Dufour-compound – Michel Dufour is seen as the pioneer in GRP-moulding in yachting. Michel Dufour and Henri Amel together with two other – at this time famous and big yards – Henri Hervé and Roger Mallard founded the La Rochelle Boat Show which still today is an important boat show for France´s boating industry.

where are amel yachts built

Looking at a freshly started mould of the Amel 50 – the first layer, Gelcoat, has been sprayed into the mould literally just minutes ago and the whole mould is scenting the all-familiar nice smell, I easily notice some nice constructional features of Amel yachts: The deep bilge can be seen with ease at the center of the hull. Like for example Hallberg-Rassy where the deep bilge is also an important asset of the boat, this detail will provide for more safety when underway.

where are amel yachts built

Another production slot further we see a mould already in infusion process. After putting on some hundreds of pre-cut mats of GRP-garments the whole mould will be covered with a thick plastic sheeting. Through a system of pipes the resin-hardener-mix will be essentially sucked into the inside of the plastic bag and thus into the GRP-garment by a vacuum that is produced by pumps which are exhausting all the remaining air from the plastic sheeting . This process takes just a handful of hours. Another day or so and the hull has hardened sufficiently so that the sheeting could be taken away.

where are amel yachts built

What is eye-catching all over the Amel-compound both inside and outside the building are big, big “No Smoking!”-signs at walls and on plaques. Amel is a punished company as it was completely destroyed by a large all-consuming fire that ravaged like a fury back in 1968. Back then, literally starting from zero, Henri Amel became a vanguard of operational safety with an understandably focused commitment on fire prevention. In this connection I also notice that the Amel yard is exceptionally clean and cluttered – surely a byproduct of taking job safety seriously.

where are amel yachts built

In one corner of the production hall I can see the all-famous Amel-signature in series production: The dodger. As Amel yachts are made for go-everywhere sailors, a thorough protection against spray, bigger waves, strong winds and all other elements of the seas had always been a hallmark of any Amel yacht. What I like about the current, very modern Berret-Racoupeau-designed doghouse are the nicely curved front windows which are a beauty for sure!

Interior volume and owner-orientation

We enter another production hall where the interior fittings are mounted. I can see an Amel 50 (or is it a 55?) in a very early stage of fitting which is just perfect to have a thorough look at the bulkheads and how they are mounted. There are virtually a dozen of thick, massive wooden elements which serve as structural bulkheads from bow to head, adding to the integrity of the construction. The huge aft-section with a dedicated housing for the steering mechanism and the huge, huge lazarettes is clearly visible.

where are amel yachts built

Another nice insight aft is the big owner´s cabin which is just a dream. The centered berth is more than sufficient for two people. The big portholes to either sides will surely provide for an unmatched view over the anchoring sites right upon waking up and opening the eyes. A large hanging locker, easily dropping 5 feet to starboard side, lots of other stowage, the en-suite bathroom and an intimate working place to port side aft make this owner´s cabin complete.

where are amel yachts built

Currently, Amel offers three kinds of interior styles which is the – notorious – light Oak, of course brushed, not glossy painted, than a more classic approach in Mahogany, glossy painted, which would be my first choice. And then, Stephanie is very proud to show us, Amel offers – as she says the only yard to do so – a very special kind of wooden fitting: Indian Rosewood or as others call it, Palisander. This looks just awesome, I can assure you!

where are amel yachts built

As with almost every modern production yard Amel also tries to pre-fit all internal parts and groups them to modules. That speeds up production process and minimized time-consuming on-boat mounting time. The modules will be put into the boat, readily located cables will just have to be plugged and the module mounted to the hull: Done! Another corner of the hall brings back the all-too familiar smell of GRP.

Amel´s Signature Fake Teak

No boat without Teak , that´s a classic and this is also applying to Amel yachts. But does it really? Of course the yachts made here in La Rochelle at the Amel yard receive a decking but Amel´s approach is unique in the whole business. It´s fake Teak through and through, but done with a proprietary and stand-alone technique that only Amel applies to their boats.

where are amel yachts built

Stephanie explains that with the current new line of Amel yachts they have put a lot of effort and research in further enhancing their design and characteristics of the Amel fake Teak decking. In negative moulds for smaller moving parts of the deck like locker-lids I can easily spot how it is done: The mould has a fine anti-slip grain worked into it. Then – labour intensive and done by crafty hands – the fake Teak colour, a kind of Gelcoat – is applied together with the Koto-imitation.

where are amel yachts built

Together with the glass fibre mats and the resin mixture the coloured parts are hardened and after being taken out of the moulds the new non-slip decking in faux Teak is finished. I must admit from looking at older Amels in harbours I was never really a big fan of the Amel-designed fake Teak, but seeing this new design I must say that their research into an improved design and technique has payed off: It looks just as nice as the best Teak imitations I have seen so far.

where are amel yachts built

Stephanie explains that with the Amel 64, the flagship, you can order real Teak decking, but the very practical, non care anti-slip fake Teak decking of Amel still is and will remain a major signature of the yacht. It frees the owner from time consuming and expensive cleaning work, maintenance and the horrific costs of eventually having to renew a whole deck in real Teak. You think it is “cheap”? Amel´s fake Teak technique is actually more cost intensive than fitting real teak – but this will surely pay off throughout the boat´s life.

Interior fittings at it´s best

One boat further down the production row already has received the deck and that means that internal fitting is mainly done. I am keen in boarding the yacht which is granted by Stephanie: Another thing that comes into my mind, nothing seems to be forbidden here, I am allowed to shoot whatever detail I want, ask whatever question comes into my mind and Stephanie is happy to grant me access or give an answer. This all comes with a certain degree of pride in her. And proud she can be for all of this for sure!

where are amel yachts built

As I come down the entryway into the boat I see a half finished interior with large portions still not mounted. This opens up some nice insights in how the yard works and how the boat is constructed. Firstly I am stunned by the quality of the panels and facings of the boat´s walls and bulkheads. These are done partly in nice, curved wooden veneers or – in this case – in a leather-like synthetic foam-baked fabric that is dedicated to marine use and which is both lighter in terms of weight and is brightening up the salon sufficiently. Third: It looks just awesome!

where are amel yachts built

The overall quality of the wooden internal fittings and the carpentry is gorgeous and as good as it can get. There are practically no seams visible, everything is rock solid mounted and diligently protected against defects for the owner in being. I just fell in love with the ship´s doors which are completely covered in stitched brown leather. Brilliant idea and adding so much to the character of the boat!

where are amel yachts built

As I have done and I am still doing a major internal refit of my own sailing yacht, the King´s Cruiser 33, I am always keen on taking a look at how professionals do the things which I have recently done as a – well, calling myself an amateur would be too flattering at all! – and so I take a thorough look at the roofing construction of the Amel 50. Juste awesome! A very solid substruction directly attached to the sandwich foam cored GRP-roof and very, very nicely done set of roofing panels attached to it. I envy this boat!

where are amel yachts built

There are so many details and so many nice things to say about this production step of an Amel yacht that I could produce a whole series of articles, but let me point out here that what was roaming my mind all the time spent in this production hall was a thought that this does not look like production boating but like making a semi-custom yacht. There are so many nice details you simply won´t find in large production company´s boats which set these yachts apart from a whole lot of ordinary boats. And I begin to understand even more, why Amel is such a favoured brand among circumnavigating sailors – the boats are just gorgeously done and so very well executed!

Effortless push-button sailing in an Amel

We leave the workshop and Stephanie opens up a part of the hall where a big “No Pictures!”-sign is posted, but apparently I can do shoot freely. It´s where Amel´s masts and the rigging is prepared to be installed. That´s another fascinating story that comes with an Amel yacht: The yard does not utilize series production rigging by one of the big names in boating history. An Amel mast is proprietarily manufactured unique equipment only to be found on these boats.

where are amel yachts built

Amels are (now) push-button sailing yachts which means that a skipper does not have to put in physical effort whatsoever to hoist and trim the sails. Everything is done from the flight deck´s helming position. By the way, there are as many as three cameras mounted on the boat so to oversee the constellation of the sails. But back to the mast and the boom: It´s in-mast furling, all electric of course. The point is, that the masts are made especially for Amel by a Swiss company.

where are amel yachts built

They are massive and very pretty. As I touch the mast I can almost feel the heavy quality and the spotless finnish of the bright white paint that has been applied to the aluminium mast. The inside consists of two inner tubes. In the first one the rolling mechanism for the main and mizzen sails are run – completely separated from the running rigging such as halyards and stuff which is running through a second tube. No meddling of each other will ever happen.

where are amel yachts built

The mast and the pigg is completely done here at the Amel yard in La Rochelle so that the service provider commissioning the boat for the client wherever she is going to hit the waters does not have all too much trouble in get the boat running. I again am very touched by the cluttered clean workplace here and the nicely stacked utensils which are going to be mounted next.

where are amel yachts built

Of course, every electric system can (and eventually will) brake some time so with Amel each and every important component in the boat is redundantly installed: There are two autopilots for example. If something with the electric furling systems fails, it´s just two bolts unscrewed, electric engines will be unplugged from the mechanism and one can crank in the sails with an ordinary winch. Nice.

Indistinguishable Amel

We are closing this exclusive tour and are back on the large free open space with the testing pool where three Amel yachts are moored and receiving first trials and last bits of equipment. After seeing all of the production, I do have now a different view on these boats. Although the design is for my personal taste too beamy with a too high freeboard, I begin to admire certain aspects of it as well: I simply love center cockpit yachts now as I consider them the best way for a couple to enjoy their dream yacht on a dream sailing trip. With the Amel, the owner´s cabin are just awesome indeed!

where are amel yachts built

I also see the signature style in Amel´s boat design which has been interpreted with bravery by Berret-Racoupeau, centering the boat´s main styling around the large doghouse but by focussing on a more edgy style Amel yachts now got a fresh new style. Stephanie agrees and tells me that the company is happy to welcome – against the trend of the overall market – especially young new owners to the Amel family. I think this is partially at least due to the adventures of SY DELOS, which of course are closely monitored by the yard as well. The young and fresh new approach of the Amel-yachts may on the other hand also appeal much more to younger people.

where are amel yachts built

But there are also nice other details, like the solid handrail that is running all along the boat from bow to stern – very rigid and imposing a lot of safety especially when weather conditions may get rough . By the way: Can you now notice the fake Teak? If I wouldn´t knew, I would barely notice. As we walk back to the main building all along the halls we have seen during the past hours, Stephanie reveals another detail of the yard, which really fascinated me.

where are amel yachts built

She said that Henri Amel not only loved his yachts and the yard and the way he was producing the boats – he also loved the people who were working with him. He saw them as a part of the family, he saw his whole company as one big family. So, in his last will he decreed that the value of the company may be shared among the employees. Isn´t that just awesome? This company really belongs to the very people who work here! Stephanie also owns some shares and reveals that she is now staying with Amel for decades. Isn´t this the best way to insure a loyal, enthused and motivated workforce? I´m baffled in the most positive sense of the word.

where are amel yachts built

So I say Goodbye and thanked Stephanie, who was sacrificing her spare time after a stressful working day to show me around in the yard. In her yard. As I leave the building, I am smiling. It´s a fascinating concept, a unique boat with no second in the market and a very, very fascinating company with a rich history and culture. And – I´m sure now – this is a company with a great future as well. I take a picture of the model of an Amel 55 with a classic windshield and I decide: This is for me the true Amel-style. It must be a ketch rigged boat, then it´s a true Amel!

Thank you so much, Stephanie!

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Amel 50 review: An indoor sailing experience to excite even hardened sailors

Pip Hare

  • May 9, 2019

The Amel 50 is the French yard’s first sloop in over 20 years, Pip Hare takes a 48-hour test to see if the new format works

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Amel has a long established following for yachts designed and built to match the needs of liveaboard and bluewater cruisers. It is reputed for its singular way of doing things and is famed for its ketches , designed for ease of sailing by a couple.

So when the La Rochelle yard unveiled this Amel 50, its first sloop since 1997, one with a broad, modern hull shape and twin rudders, it was met with surprise. Had Amel abandoned its heritage in favour for what’s in vogue?

Fortunately not. Step aboard and you quickly understand why this is a brilliant new model, one true to the brand’s DNA but versatile enough to suit everything from coastal sailing to global cruising.

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Jib, staysail and main halyards are managed at the mast using a track and car system that locks the halyards in place. Photo: Jean-Sébastien Evrard

When I arrived in La Rochelle for my two-day liveaboard test, I wasn’t greeted with the sparkly weather I’d seen in Amel’s brochure. It was a dark, wet, windy and cold December morning. But, with its fully enclosed doghouse, the Amel 50 was made to take on weather like this. Would ‘indoors’ sailing leave me metaphorically cold, I wondered – surely the beauty of our sport is achieved through connection with the elements?

Setting out in a brisk westerly wind and lumpy seas that broke over the foredeck, the heat from below decks soon flowed up the companionway to fill the enclosed doghouse, bringing with it the aroma of fresh bread and coffee.

Within minutes we were punching our way confidently upwind, oblivious to the weather raging outside. I sat in the doghouse, feeling overdressed in salopettes and sea boots, and with every wave that crashed into the windscreen I felt my need to be out in the elements melting away.

Bold first impressions

The Amel’s lines follow modern trends including a blunt stem, full volume bow, high topsides, modest sheer and a beamy transom. But this latest model from the Berret-Racoupeau design team has rung some substantial changes. Amel’s first sloop in two decades, it is also the yard’s first model with twin rudders and the first built using resin infusion techniques.

Article continues below…

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Hanse 548 review: The push-button 50-footer that can be sailed by a couple

Imagine putting a cruising couple from the late 1990s into a time capsule and fast-forwarding them to the present. Then…

Henri Amel, founder of Amel yachts

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For close to 30 years Amel has favoured ketch rigs in the belief that splitting the sail area across two masts should make large cruising yachts more manageable for couples to sail. Ironically this way of thinking may have put off some sailors who actually consider two masts to be double the work, not half.

With the new 50 being the smallest in the range, the sail area was considered small enough to be comfortably handled as a sloop. Losing the mizzenmast unlocks additional benefits of reduced build costs, a larger cockpit and more below-deck versatility, making the Amel 50 an attractive package.

Absorbed or alienated?

Taking the helm for the first time I was acutely aware of my position on the boat – at the front of a central cockpit and offset to port. Looking forward, with only half the boat ahead and a small wheel in my hands I had the impression of sailing something much smaller.

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The helmsman’s chair swivels and adjusts in height and there are reasonable views of the sails. Photo: Jean-Sébastien Evrard

The pillarless windscreen offers a panoramic view and the cockpit is high enough to give vision to windward, even on a starboard tack. The mainsail can be seen through hatches in the doghouse roof, while the view of the jib luff is great on a starboard tack – straight up the slot – but more difficult on port as the forestay sags to leeward. There’s a helmsman’s chair behind the steering position but I found standing more comfortable as, when seated, my arms were at full stretch.

The steering system uses push-pull cables onto the port rudder quadrant resulting in a helm that is sensitive to movement, but has little feeling. The rudders are a good size and the linkage direct, so small wheel movements have immediate impact, but as the cables do not load up no feedback can be felt through the wheel.

Once I’d acknowledged this I tuned into other performance indicators, using angle of heel particularly to guide me upwind. Immediately the helming experience came alive, I was watching for gusts, reading the waves, taking note of everything around me. Before I knew it, I was fully absorbed and unquestionably engaged with the sailing experience.

Joystick sail handling

The mainsail unfurls from the mast at an impressive speed using joystick controls in front of the wheel. The outhaul runs at the same pace on a continuous line system, which moves the clew in and out via a boom track. To avoid damage, both use a current-sensitive ‘time out’ feature – so if either is placed under heavy load they will momentarily stop, alerting crew to a potential sail jam or rope snag.

The jib sheets neatly through a wide shroud base, via coachroof tracks outside the doghouse and on to electric primary winches. Manual secondary winches allow jib cars to be trimmed while sailing. Powered-up under full main and genoa in 18 knots of wind we ploughed through waves at a decent 8.1 knots with a true wind angle of 50°, which is perfectly acceptable for offshore passagemaking.

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The Amel 50 is a Berret Racoupeau design. Photo: Jean-Sébastien Evrard

Our test boat had the optional cutter rig adding a 24m 2 self-tacking staysail to the 126m 2 sail plan. Setting the staysail while beating in 20 knots gained a further 0.3 knots of boat speed, with no adverse effects to balance. Personally, I can’t imagine why you wouldn’t tick the staysail box; it adds a manageable sail area to the forward triangle, while providing a dedicated heavy weather sail.

Finally calling an end to our upwind slog, we put the bow down looking for a lunchtime anchorage in the lee of Isle de Rey. Off the breeze we waddled a little with jib alone. A furling gennaker soon saw us scooting across the waves reaching 9 knots of boat speed in 20 knots of wind. Helming required concentration, but once again it absorbed me and I unashamedly grinned at this ‘dry’ sailing experience.

In the blink of an eye, the sails were away and the anchor deployed using the remote windlass controls behind the wheel. With the cockpit table extended to full size and set with warm food on china plates the full transformation was complete and our rugged sailing experience of the morning was definitely a thing of the past.

The Amel philosophy

Over lunch I learned more of Amel’s ‘maximum enjoyment, minimum work’ philosophy, which not only covers sail plans but every aspect of design and construction. These boats are built to stand the ravages of time and the sea while incorporating details to reduce maintenance, make repairs uncomplicated and ensure life on board is simple and safe.

It seems that Amel has thought of everything, whether it is the specially extruded four-compartment mast section that keeps halyards, electrics and furler separate, the spyglass in the bottom of the hull giving direct sight of the propeller, or chafe protection at every point a locker lid might scratch the stainless-steel handrail.

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The saloon table folds out to seat eight – the small tables double as stools. Photo: Julien Girardot

With every new detail I became more impressed by the Amel 50. It’s as though the everyday inadequacies and compromises I’ve grown to accept as part of yacht ownership have been wiped away in this boat.

After lunch, with the sun breaking through, I put my hosts to work; first poling out the headsail with the huge, vertically mounted jib pole, then trying the Code 0.

The white sails downwind set-up is good. There is a welded tang mid-boom that allows a preventer to be attached from inside the footprint of the deck, and the substantial jib pole, though a bit of a handful to lower in a rolling sea, is utterly fit for the job once in place.

Downwind performance was comfortable and efficient, making close to 9 knots dead downwind in 22 knots true. As the breeze died we maintained our VMG by setting a Code 0 with the jib pole. Sailing like this in the sun felt heavenly and the whole crew naturally gravitated to the aft deck, leaving the autopilot to drive while we took in the stunning islands of the Charente.

As the light faded on our first day we found a mooring buoy on the shores of Isle d’Aix and I took the controls on approach. This didn’t prove easy in the gusty breeze as there’s a lot of windage on the hull and superstructure, which makes manoeuvring the Amel 50 at low speeds tricky.

The twin rudders provide little prop wash effect to counteract any last-minute gusts so on my second attempt I resorted to the bow thruster, leaving the wheel in the centre and driving using throttle for speed and thruster for direction – this proved equally efficient when reversing into the berth at the end of the test.

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From the bathing platform to the bowsprit the attention to detail on this Amel 50 is phenomenal. Photo: Jean-Sébastien Evrard

The cockpit sole lifts to reveal an impressively spacious and entirely watertight engine room, accessed via a small ladder. In line with the ‘trouble free maintenance’ approach, everything in this space is well set out with good access and room to work.

As well as the 110hp Volvo engine, the test boat housed a generator, watermaker, air conditioning unit and two inverters. Through-hull fittings have been kept to a minimum using a single inlet and seawater manifold.

All tankage is housed under the cockpit sole, including a grey water tank set in the bilge sump, which collects waste from all sinks and showers, serviced by a float switch for automatic emptying. This system ensures a dry, clean bilge elsewhere, creating extra room for storage.

Luxury for serious sailors

Below decks the Amel 50 is every bit as luxurious as you’d expect for its €790,000 price tag. The test boat finish was light oak with stainless steel details, which give a contemporary vibe, though may require endless wiping to remove finger marks.

There is a great feeling of space throughout, especially in the saloon, which, despite the raised cabin sole, has nearly two metres of standing headroom. Natural light floods from mid-height windows in the topsides and high-level coachroof hatches.

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The use of a passageway galley helps to open up the spacious living area. Photo: Jean-Sébastien Evrard

A snug chart table surrounded by switchboards and repeat navigation instruments is set into the aft corner on the port side, while to starboard there is a step down to the corridor galley.

Two large sofas flank the saloon, one wrapped around the dining table to port. A couple of occasional tables can double-up as stools and provide all-round seating when the dining table is extended. These are anchored away under the folded table while sailing.

The Amel 50’s master cabin is situated aft, accessed through the galley passageway. It has a large double island bed, writing desk, sofa and en-suite facilities. Another big double in the bow shares a heads and shower with the bunk-bedded cabin to starboard. This twin cabin is disproportionately small compared to the space everywhere else, but the top bunk folds away to create a little more room if required.

Living on board the Amel 50 would be no hardship. I spent the evening in perfect comfort, eventually retiring to a fantastic night’s sleep in the forward cabin, leaving the blinds open so I could watch the twinkling lights ashore, through the large hull portlight from my bunk.

Amel-50-boat-test-master-cabin-credit-JS-Evrard

The aft island berth lifts up with stowage beneath and can be fitted with lee boards. Photo: Jean-Sébastien Evrard

Aside from the five-star hotel experience, the thing that really grabbed me below decks was how well this luxury combines with a set-up for serious sailing. All bunks come with well-fitting leeboards or cloths making even the island beds into usable sea berths.

The accommodation is separated from bow locker and lazarette by watertight bulkheads and internal bulkheads can be made watertight using clamps across the doorframes with their special seals.

The galley is large and well equipped with a proper sink, pull-out fridge and freezer drawers and plenty of worksurface. The passageway is wide enough for two people to pass, yet slim enough to brace while at sea.

The head-height storage lockers open to reveal a drawer front that slides out on tracks, keeping the contents retained when the locker is ‘uphill’ while still allowing access to the contents at the back.

Amel-50-boat-test-galley-credit-Julien-girardot

The galley is overflowing with sensible and user- friendly storage. Photo: Julien Girardot

The only area that doesn’t seem commensurate with a life offshore is the passage forward from companionway steps across the saloon. This open space has few grab handles and would be a challenge to cross while pressed up on port.

The Amel team has addressed this in more recent builds by lengthening the stainless steel grabrail on the folded dining table-top, while repositioning and adding other holds at the bottom of the companionway steps.

The full sailing experience

The sun rose on the second day of our test to reveal, flat water, light winds and a cloudless sky. The change in weather gave great opportunity to try all aspects of the Amel 50 sailing experience and we spent a fun morning, hoisting and dropping every sail in the inventory.

In a wind range from 8 to 12 knots true, with a Code 0, gennaker and downwind asymmetric, no matter which way I pointed the bow, the boat performed. Speeds were less spectacular under white sails alone, so for those who like to sail until the last I’d recommend some additional offwind sail area.

Amel-50-boat-test-bunks-credit-JS-Evrard

The twin bunk cabin forward is a little cramped. Photo: Jean-Sébastien Evrard

Moving about the deck hoisting and dropping sails, I become more aware of the solid handrail and the security it offers. Not only is this feature higher than normal guardrails but it will take the weight of a person should they fall. The Amel teak – the company’s trademark gelcoat deck made to look like planked teak – offered good grip under foot.

The morning disappeared in sunshine and sails. Now it was warm I opened the central windscreen to get the feel of wind on my face while helming, though in these conditions it was a shame to stay ‘indoors’ and the best place on the boat became whichever pushpit seat had the sun.

With the rise in temperature the breeze died away and just when I thought we’d seen the limit of this boat’s sailing ability, it surprised me again. I have come to accept that poor lightwind performance is the trade-off to make for comfort in boats of this genre but, as the breeze died, the Amel 50 just kept going. With the jib set in just 5 knots of true wind speed we maintained a boat speed of 4.5 knots at a 60° true angle.

We were blessed with perfectly flat water and a stable wind direction, but this final flourish of performance confirmed my growing feelings of admiration for the boat and reminded me never to judge a book by its cover.

Our verdict

I can’t sit on the fence about the Amel 50; it is a brilliant boat. It’s neither revolutionary nor showy, and the unequivocal adherence to making everything maintenance light and easy-to-handle results in a boat that is not at all svelte.

I arrived with some heavy preconceptions perhaps as much about the kind of sailor I am as the kind of boat I would be sailing. I was treated to the full Amel 50 experience and my hosts did everything possible to show this boat in the best light.

But if you take away the fine food, endless espressos and crisp white bed linen, the Amel 50 still shines. It sails well, it is beautifully built and it made me smile. I left surprised and ever so slightly in love.

Specification

LOA: 16.50m (54ft 2in) LWL: 14.50m (47ft 7in) Beam: 4.79m (15ft 9in) Draught: 2.15m (7ft 1in) Displacement (light): 18,750kg (41,336lb) Ballast: 5,360kg (11,817lb) Sail Area (100% foretriangle): 126m 2 (1,360ft 2 ) Sail Area/displacement ratio: 19.9 Displacement/LWL ratio: 171 Berths: 6 Engine: 110hp shaftdrive Water capacity: 600lt (132gal) Fuel capacity: 675lt (148gal) Price from: €790,000 (ex VAT) Price as tested: €940,000 (ex VAT) Design: Berret Racoupeau Yacht Design

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OUR SAVOIR-FAIRE

where are amel yachts built

PERFECTIONISM, PASSION AND SHARING

where are amel yachts built

PRODUCTION CARPENTER

  • Matching and marking wood panels
  • Gluing vacuum-formed panels
  • Drawing plans
  • Cutting solid wood or plywood
  • Manufacturing parts and assembling components
  • Finishing (edgebanding/sanding), fitting (hardware assembly, sanding and joint treatment)
  • Preparing equipment on the workbench (flexible and rigid plastic and copper pipes, black water tanks, valves, and more.)
  • Onboard: drilling (bulkheads, hull, deck), through-pipes, installing equipment for kitchens / bathrooms / sanitary facilities, connecting water systems and tanks, waterproofing.
  • Pressurisation tests followed by commissioning and inspection
  • Can take part in deck fitting work, maintenance, hydraulics, various assembly jobs, welding and lamination work if production requires it.

CARPENTER FITTER

  • Assembling joinery elements
  • Adjusting wooden parts, either varnished or unvarnished, fitting hardware (hardware parts like as hinges, push-buttons, etc.).
  • Finishing (sanding and joint treatment)
  • Can take part in lamination work

MARINE ELECTRICIAN

  • At the workbench: preparing electrical equipment, cable cutting, marking, labelling, pre-wiring and installing electrical equipment on switch boards or in cabinets
  • Onboard: cable routing, installing electrical equipment (cabinets, motors, pumps, batteries), connections and testing.
  • Quality control: checking wiring, circuits, power-up, and writing quality reports
  • Releasing laminated parts from their moulds
  • Marking and plotting out the parts using templates or drawings
  • Preparing the parts in a room or trimming enclosure
  • Trimming parts
  • Cleaning up, dusting and storage

PARTS LAMINATOR

  • Individual or series production, using a mould, of the various fibreglass parts required for building the boat (locker covers, additional superstructure parts such as cockpit shelters or interior fittings).
  • The laminator’s job involves placing successive layers of these materials over the mould in a process called lay-up, according to the manufacturing specifications.

ELECTRONICS TECHNICIAN

  • Setting up the work schedule for electronic equipment on the basis of information from the customer file, the technical file, etc.
  • Selecting the right tools (testers, signal generators, etc.) and equipment (electronic components, modules, etc.) for the job.
  • Installing and connecting the electronic equipment components according to purpose and requirements.
  • Electronic systems/equipment: detection and navigation assistance equipment, sound and/or video equipment, telecommunications/alarm and security/telephony equipment, power electronics, onboard equipment, testing and measurement instrumentation/equipment
  • Jobs requiring a permit : dead work certifications (high and low voltage), live work certifications (high and low voltage)
  • Cutting out fibreglass cloth strips according to the manufacturing drawings
  • Laying down successive layers of fibreglass cloth (lay-up) on a mould to form the final shape of the part.

where are amel yachts built

MARINE MECHANIC-FITTER

  • Preparing equipment, and more specifically combustion engines and mechanical engines (propulsion systems or generators) and all other mechanical systems
  • Assembling spare parts, testing and topping up (oil, water, diesel, air)
  • Preparing the engine compartment insulation by cutting foam panels to templates
  • Fitting, bolting down, screwing, alignment
  • Connection to onboard networks, commissioning and testing
  • Can perform deck fitting and/or plumbing work, as well as minor welding jobs if necessary.

LAMINATOR GELCOATER

  • Lamination station : resin preparation (compound mixing), fabric cutting, placing the fabrics in the moulds – contact, injection and infusion lamination processes.
  • Gluing station : assembling wood/ composite parts with polyester glue, roughening and prepping parts, applying and laminating gluing strips.
  • Gelcoat station : applying gelcoat to the moulds using an airmix gun or cup.
  • Gelcoat finishing station : preparing parts (sanding, masking), applying gelcoat, touching up finishes (water sanding) and polishing parts.
  • Prepping station : storing stock, unpacking compounds into other recipients and pre-cutting fabrics.

where are amel yachts built

FINISHING CARPENTER

  • Carrying out finishing work on the carpentry inside and outside the boat during the final stage of construction
  • Final cuts on small parts, installing trim and finishing components such as wooden strips and door seals.
  • Adjusting door and drawer latches

boat preparation manager

  • Preparation and commissioning of new ships delivered to the port (handling, launching, masting, maneuvering in port, inter-basin transfer, outing at sea).
  • Maintenance and upkeep operations on the AMEL pontoon ships
  • One-off after-sales service (France and Abroad)
  • Installation and dismantling of stands and ships exhibited at boat shows (Europe)

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Amel 60 - the ultimate world cruiser

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Simple One Of the Best

Amel is a french boat building company that still makes blue-water cruisers like no other company in the yacht market history. Perhaps for people who get the opportunity to retire early, buying a long-distance blue-water cruising yacht can be the fulfilment of a lifetime’s achievement. The French engineer Henri Amel did things a little differently. Henri  didn’t buy a yacht; he started building them when he was 50 years old. Henry Amel never had a business before his boat factory or even ran one. What a fantastic character!

Henri  would write his history and prove that passion and dedication would be a winning formula in his quest for perfection. He didn’t see why a long-distance cruising yacht should be a wet, uncomfortable or strenuous experience. Combined with his extensive knowledge at sea, these principles resulted in a blueprint for a serious long-distance cruising yacht that the French yard still builds.

amel 60 yachts

AMEL YACHT · HENRI AMEL

Henri never stopped working.

Henri worked for 40 years in the company before his death at 90.  Amel Yachts built world-class blue water yachts following the same principles that  Henri etched into the brand’s history.  To date, the Amel yard has produced over 2,000 yachts .  You can find an Amel yacht in all parts of the globe.  A safe, principled yacht capable of withstanding the world weather.  An Amel is the choice of a professional globetrotter who may never wish to retire from the excitement of life.  Apart from the 55 and 64 models, Amel yachts were designed mainly by Henri himself.  Features that might, to some, look simultaneously old-fashioned but have a cultish and enduring quality.

Being French and a brilliantly gifted engineer,  Henri will go down in history as a man who managed to produce a yacht ahead of time.  

Henri invented electric furling sails and the first bow thrusters to be installed as standard on production yachts. This concept ensured the brand would always sit at the top table of brilliance.   Henri  believed shorthanded couples needed a boat that was easy to sail and comfortable to manoeuvre.

History says ketches rigged yachts are more manageable for cruising long distances, so the company philosophy was never to change.  All Amel Yachts are ketch rigged.  Henri  was never afraid to push boundaries of design and styling, such as maroon plastic rubbing strakes, a semi-hard top with an offset wheel and armchair helmsman’s seat (a feature that is much imitated), solid stainless guardrails and – uniquely – their moulded-in fake teak decks all make Amel distinctive and famous for being the ultimate production yacht.

The all-inclusive principle

AMEL has never encouraged or offered many options costs. As a result, production is kept consistent, and costs are low. In early boats, customers didn’t even get an option of curtains and upholstery. The build package was to be all-inclusive. Oversized items like electric furling and winches, generator, washing machine, watermaker, and so on, down to spare filters, towels, bathrobes, a boat safe, deck brush and even a hairdryer. History aside, the all-inclusive package has been less acceptable to customers in recent years, but the sales principle is still the same today; they try to sell a complete yacht. Amel will argue that minimising variation reduces the risk of production problems and allows for an excellent supply chain relationship history.

Please enjoy the video we made; it’s an example of the Amel Super Maramu built in 1993.  In 2000 we had for sale in Port Ginesta, Barcelona. 

From time to time, Network Yacht Brokers Barcelona do have  Amel Yacht for sale. Keep watching our boats for sale page for more information.

ABOUT HENRI AMEL

The Amel history is extraordinary; Henri Amel left the yard to his workers, hoping nothing would change. It's still a great and very unusual yard. Yachts are built with passion and a single-minded approach. Few production Yachts can copy the yard principles. Henri was born on 16th April 1913 to Henri Tonet. Sailing fascinated a young Henri. At the end of his teens, he started sailing on small yachts. Shortly after, Henri began to build boats in his Paris workshops. World War two came along, which put a stop to Henri's passion for a while. When the War ended, Henri continued his boat building in Lyon. During the War, Henri became severely wounded in one eye. Shortly afterwards, he lost his sight for several years. He was never one to give up his dream of building yachts. Henri Amel had a driving desire to create a boat that would be both strong, comfortable and very easy to manoeuvre.

henri amel yacht

October 1975 to June 1976

La Route des Cocotiers

Henri Amel crossed the Atlantic en route to the West Indies. He went on to pass through the Panama Canal, staying in Polynesia. This voyage was on the Meltem "Capitoune II". Having built the yacht for a good friend, he promised to deliver it personally to Tahiti. Three crewmates accompanied him. Amel spent nine months in 1975-76 cruising. He came up with the concept for a brand new design during this time. This design would prove to be his company’s most successful Yacht. The new design set a firm direction for the future. The Maramu 46ft Yacht is spacious, with a vast saloon table capable of sitting the whole crew in comfort and two decent sea berths. A proper navigation table sits next to the companionway; a well-appointed galley is easy to use at sea. To many, this 54-footer is the archetypal Amel; it enjoyed an outstandingly long production run. Hundreds were built from 1989 until the Super Maramu 2000 was superseded by the Amel 54 some 17 years later. Throughout this time, the Yacht's design remained very similar in overall style. It was updated for the new millennium with a revised model dubbed the Super Maramu 2000. Styling is very similar to the earlier Maramu 46, which soon became dated compared to other recent designs. A dated design and high price did not deter buyers.

12th April 2005

The death of Henri Amel

From early 2005, boats produced by the yard are no longer named after winds or islands but merely bear the name "AMEL". The La Rochelle-Périgny production site expanded, and a new 4000m² building was opened. The new building's primary purpose was to produce larger units, such as the Amel 64 Yacht. 2014: Jean-Jacques Lemonnier left his position as chief executive and was replaced by Emmanuel Poujeade, Chantiers Amel's administrative and finance director. Poujeade joined Amel Yachts in March 2000. Mr Lemonnier remains Chairman of the Board. September 2017: Launching the new model, the Amel 50, a 15.50-meter sloop at the Cannes Yachting Festival.

AMEL YACHT NEWS

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Boat Review: Amel 50

  • By Herb McCormick
  • Updated: April 27, 2020

Amel 50 at anchor

The hardest part of ­writing a review of a boat like the Amel 50 is beginning it. Where to start? Do you launch into the legacy of Frenchman Henri Amel, the ex-war hero who launched his legendary, eponymous La Rochelle boatyard in 1964? Should you focus on the yard’s celebrated attention to detail, and the fact that every Amel always comes fully equipped for bluewater voyaging, right down to the plates and cutlery? Or is it best to first address the specifics of this rangy new 50-footer, and the fact that it’s a true departure for Amel, the company’s first sloop—after a long string of ketch-rigged thoroughbreds—in over two decades? Seriously, what’s the hook to get this party started?

It’s probably best to just state the obvious: The Amel 50 is très cool, and oh-so remarkable in oh-so many ways.

In the 2020 Boat of the Year competition, the Amel was runner-up to the X-Yachts X46 in the Full-Size Cruiser 45 to 55 Feet class. It was the most heavily contested division in the competition, one that the judging panel agonized over during extensive deliberations. The fact that the sea trials for both boats took place in vastly different conditions—the X-Yacht had an ideal, 12-to-14-knot breeze, while the Amel was tested in a zephyr—may have affected the outcome. But the panelists had high praise for the 50-footer. Here are a few of their observations.

Amel 50 helm

Dan Spurr : “Amel has long been one of the only worldwide companies to offer what is essentially a ‘ready-to-cruise’ boat. Some of the details include secured floorboards, four watertight bulkheads, bulkheads tabbed to the hull and deck, and aft-deck stowage for the dinghy. We all also liked the 24-volt electrical system and the solid, tubular handrail rather than wire lifelines. The boat can be operated from the security of the cockpit, which has a windshield and hardtop, as with many solo offshore ocean racers. Admittedly, one of my colleagues didn’t like this feature, feeling it isolated the helm from feeling the weather and conditions. The boat is not inexpensive, but it also seemed to have one of the highest-quality finishes of anything we judged.”

Ed Sherman : “The Amel 50 is truly an oceangoing globe-trotter. With a signature, watertight forward crash bulkhead; a centrally located ‘sea chest’ (and manifold system) with a single through-hull (for seawater intake for the engine, Onan generator, air-conditioner and desalinization system) to easily isolate a leak and shut it down; and a global shore-power system that can deal with 50 or 60 hertz and 120 or 230 to 240 volts, Amel has designed a boat that will cover you wherever you travel. As with some of the other larger boats, the DC side of the electrical system is 24 volts. By doing this, the builder can save considerable weight just in the wiring, and create a more efficient low-voltage electrical system.”

Ralph Naranjo : “I felt the fit and finish was at a higher level than I’ve seen on earlier Amels. Her hull was vacuum-infused, with solid glass below the waterline and foam core above it (and in the deck). Attention to detail in areas that could be seen belowdecks revealed good structural engineering and careful finish work. The design decision with the keel to go with iron rather than lead ballast affects both seaworthiness and long-term maintenance; lead could’ve improved the righting moment and enhanced her upwind sailing ability. This is a well-built vessel that, to me, is more of a motorsailer than a traditional cruising sailboat; it will spend much time under power. As such, good attention has been given to the engine room and related equipment such as the drivetrain and generator.”

There’s your overview. Now let’s focus in on some of those details, with the caveat that you’d require a book, not a mere magazine article, to delve deeply into all of them.

In both profile appearance and the design’s overall execution, the major, overriding feature of the Amel 50 is the prominent deckhouse with its enclosed steering station, the actual seat for which is a comfy armchair. From this cozy perch, to port, and with the wide array of instruments, joysticks and related controls an arm’s length away, you can basically operate the entire boat. For instance, you can bump the throttle and/or the retractable bow thruster with one hand. The electric winch for the in-mast furling main and twin Profurl headsail furlers are right there, as is the Lewmar windlass control, autopilot buttons, B&G chart plotter and so on.

The deckhouse is doubly important in that, by raising the hefty floor panel to which the cockpit table is fastened, you have wonderful access to the deep engine/technical room, which houses not only the 5-cylinder, 110-horsepower Volvo engine (coupled with the three-blade Varifold prop, this is a significant power plant), but also the chargers, inverter, watermaker, etc. This is an ideal setup for maintenance and inspection, and twice as nice in that you don’t have to lift the companionway stairs or rearrange staterooms to get at everything. Big props.

Amel 50 main saloon

Down below, I’m not at all exaggerating when saying I’ve never seen a more efficient use of space on any cruising boat. Storage lockers are simply everywhere; there are a half-dozen alone under the floorboards, and many more under the settees (as well as a freezer) in the very open, comfortable saloon (bathed in natural light with hull windows, coachroof ports and overhead hatches).

To port of the companionway, there’s a tidy navigation station with a long, ridiculously comfortable settee. To starboard, down two steps, is the excellent straight-line galley that also provides the passageway to the owner’s stateroom aft. The huge berth there lifts up for yet more stowage beneath it, and also reveals the inspection port for the rudder (one of the many unusual details that are practically everywhere). There is, of course, a well-executed head and shower, not to mention the washer/dryer. Forward, the guest stateroom is equally comfortable; there’s also another cabin with bunkbeds ahead of the saloon, with lee cloths that will make sweet sea berths.

Amel 50 galley

Topside, there’s a big sail locker forward and a single bow roller on a stainless-steel sprit, from which a code zero or asymmetric cruising chute can be set. Aft, the generous drop-down swim platform unfolds from the transom; yet another nifty feature is the passerelle that is stashed in the lazarette. Our aforementioned test sail was conducted in 5 to 6 knots of light Chesapeake Bay wind, but the boat still acquitted herself well, skimming along at better than 3 knots. It would be a lot of fun to put her through the paces in a blow.

Concluding an Amel 50 review is much easier than launching one. The summation is simple. It’s a superb yacht, one that will take its lucky crews wherever in the watery world they wish to go.

Herb McCormick is CW ’s executive editor.

Les Chantiers Amel

914-381-5900

  • More: amel , Boat Reviews , new boats , print 2020 march , Sailboat Reviews , Sailboats
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The AMEL spirit

AMEL yachts are the legacy of one man’s passion and determination to build the perfect ocean-going yacht. In 1964, Henri Amel founded the eponymous Chantiers AMEL in La Rochelle, France, turning his dream – to build yachts that guaranteed safety and comfort no matter the sailing conditions – into reality.

To this day, each AMEL yacht is designed and built in the La Rochelle factory to the exacting standards of its founder. Flagstaff Marine spoke with AMEL Sales director, Antoine Rioton, and asked him to tell us more about the unique spirit of AMEL.

The perfect ocean-going yacht

The perfect ocean-going yacht

Antoine, can you tell us about Henri Amel’s vision for the perfect ocean-going yacht?

“Mr. Amel, who I should mention was almost blind, was a sailor, a designer, and a ship-builder when he created the company over fifty years ago. He used his own experience on the water to design a boat that was easy to sail no matter what the conditions. The core concept of the AMEL design is to create a safe boat that is comfortable and spacious and can be operated by a reduced crew, usually a couple.”

Built to cross oceans

Built to cross oceans

So, this is the perfect yacht for people who want to sail the world?

“Yes, exactly. AMEL is designed for long-distance circumnavigation. So, you know, if you are living on board for eight months of the year, sometimes you’ll have friends to stay on board but often it will just be two of you, so we have designed it with that in mind.”

“For example, usually on a 50ft boat you would have four or five cabins. On the AMEL 50, there is the option of two or three cabins. The master is a huge suite at the back and very comfortable because we know you will be spending a lot of time there.”

where are amel yachts built

“Of course, to make the yacht safe and easy to sail we make sure that you can operate all the systems on the boat from one deep, protected, central cockpit. It’s big even for a 50ft yacht because we know you’ll be spending a lot of time outside. And it can be fully enclosed so even if you have any rough weather – 40 knots, 50 knots – you can operate everything safely.”

A centralised system

A centralised system

The idea of a centralized system that incorporates the comfort and convenience of the owner into the design process is a core principle for AMEL. All the controls feedback to the central cockpit to ensure easy and safe sailing. Likewise, the engine and services are centralized under the deck so they are easy to access. As Antoine explains,

“It’s something you won’t find on another boat. All the systems are in one place, so if in many boats you have to change the oil, work on or service the engine, you have to remove the companionway, reach for the gauge and so on. On an AMEL, you live here so you don’t want to dismantle the space if you have to service something. So it’s easy to access, just open one hatch, step down, stand up and you can reach everything.”

High standards are not optional

AMEL also recognizes equipment that may be optional on some boats is a necessity for long-distance sailing. “The boat comes almost complete. We don’t have that many options,”  says Antoine.  “This boat has a bow thruster, in-mast furling, jib furling, a capstan, you need genset so of course, a genset comes with the boat. It’s very important to us to offer that.”

Safe by design

Safe by design

Henri Amel was a war veteran and was left partially blind from an eye injury received during WWII. But it was during the war that he came across an innovation that would have a profound impact on his own designs – the Allied naval forces’ use of polyester resin to build floating caissons. AMEL would become a pioneer in this new technology, using polyester construction to design a yacht that is perfectly waterproof, highly resistant in structure and incredibly safe.

“The AMEL boat is built for safety,” says Antoine.  “All the bulkheads are laminated to the helm and laminated to the deck; the frames are laminated as well; they are not glued. So you get a very stiff boat that is as watertight as you can get. If you have a collision you can close the doors and still be perfectly secure. You can stay floating and get back safely.”

Constant development

AMEL is dedicated to constantly improving the sailing experience and Henri Amel himself was an innovator. Can you tell us more about the spirit of AMEL?

“The AMEL spirit is behind every stage in the construction process and our equipment and design are in constant development. This is very important to us because it was how Henri Amel approached design. He would go out sailing and think about what he wanted to change or improve. So, he would say, ‘It’s hard to hold onto the winch in wet weather’ or ‘I don’t want to hear the engine noise here,’ and then he’d go back and change the design and make it better.”

where are amel yachts built

“He also wanted couples to be able to sail together so he used to say,

‘ I want women to enjoy being on board.’

S o he made sure his yachts were very safe, very comfortable and easy to handle. This was important to him, so he designed a boat like this. Over the years we’ve kept all those concepts and we keep improving.”

where are amel yachts built

Comfortable sailing was very important to Henri Amel and this is reflected in the design. Space and light are treated as a premium. There is extra storage space and a large fridge and freezer so you can spend more time at sea.

A unique service

Antoine, AMEL prides itself on providing a full service to your clients. Some new owners may not know that most boat-builders do not usually oversee the commissioning of a new boat; this is usually done by the dealer. Can you tell us about your unique commissioning and after-sales service?

“At AMEL we do things differently; we offer a full service and this starts with the commissioning. Our yachts are fully designed and manufactured in La Rochelle and we like to do the commissioning there as well with one of our own AMEL technicians. We spend a week explaining all the system and testing the boat. The purpose is to give all the information we can to the future owner so they know their boat and are free to sail. We cover everything from A to Z.”

where are amel yachts built

“Another thing that is very important to us is the after-sales; we stay in contact with the owner. So, if you’ve got a problem with the boat or the engine, the owner goes through AMEL and then we take care of it. This is a huge comfort when you are out on the ocean.

For example, if you’re far away, out at sea, if you’ve got a problem with the electronics, just give us a call and even just by telephone we can solve the problem. We’ve got a good technician who says, ‘Okay, let’s do this, this and this,’ and he gives a solution.”

AMEL’s dedication to their owners is another trait the company has inherited from its founder. In 1975, Henri Amel spent eight months sailing across the Atlantic then to the West Indies, passing through the Panama Canal and finally to Polynesia to personally deliver the yacht to its new owner in Tahiti.

It is this passion for the pure joy of sailing that encapsulates the AMEL spirit .

Read more about the AMEL 50 , and discover our range of preloved AMEL yachts with our boat brokerage news .

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Yacht Bible | The Superyacht and Luxury Yacht Directory

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AMELS Yachts – Operating Since 1918

The Netherlands has a rich history of prosperous shipyards. Shipbuilding companies like Feadship, Royal De Vries, and VanDutch are all based in this country.

But very few of them can claim to be as old as Amels. However, age isn’t the only noteworthy thing about Amels Yachts. They’ve got so much more going for them.

AMELS yachts brief history

Amels shipyard was founded in 1918. For about 64 years, they built magnificent sailing yachts—among other types of maritime vessels. In 1982, they shifted their focus to luxury superyachts.

From this point, it became the goal of many high-net-worth people to own an “ Amel.”

The shipyard specialized in semi-custom superyachts and often created a frenzy with their Limited Edition “Amels” series.

This is the case with the series designed by Tim Heywood. One of the yachts from this series is the 50-m Tigre d’Or .

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The intermingled histories of the Amel shipyard and Damen Yachting (DY) might lead one to believe that both companies have always existed as one.

But it’s important to know that even though DY owns Amels (as it has for more than a hundred years), the latter had existed for about nine years before its present parent company (DY) was founded in 1927.

Notable Launches

Amels yachts built and launched the Hona in 2004. Redman Whitely Dixon designed it, and it measures 82m.

They also constructed Here Comes The Sun in 2016. It’s their largest yacht yet, with a length of 89m and a top speed of 17 knots.

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Amels has two shipyards, both of which have climate control technology and house up to more than 200-m yachts. Their services include the designing, building, and refitting of vessels.

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McMichael Yacht Yards & Brokers

Amel Yachts

Amel - new models.

The Amel Spirit Is In Constant Renewal The AMEL spirit is behind every stage in the construction process, from the choice of materials to internal finish, along with the service provided to AMEL customers around the world. Fully designed and manufactured in La Rochelle, each unit is delivered by an AMEL technician, with one week to get to grips with the yacht. Owners can familiarise themselves with their new yacht and begin to appreciate the true pleasure of effortless, safe and comfortable sailing.

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2024 Amel 50

Brett Lyall A lifelong, passionate boater, Brett brings 26 years of sailing and 18 years of powerboat knowledge to the McMichael team. His background includes Environmental engineering and consulting, along with 7 years of sales and marketing experience in the luxury market. In addition to being an avid fisherman, surfer, and scuba diver, he is a sailing coach and has crewed extensively offshore on a variety of boats from J109, J105, J99 and 112E to a Gunboat 57. His knowledge of all things boating related is second only to his reputation for exceptional customer service and professionalism.

Doug Conner Doug’s life-long love of all things nautical naturally led him to pursue a career in luxury yacht brokerage. His professional background in sales and marketing, combined with his overall experience in and passion for the yachting industry, makes him a valuable asset to his clients for sail and power boats. Doug is committed to providing his clients with honest, professional, knowledgeable, and personal service.

Myles McQuone Myles is a licensed captain from age 18. He is a third Generation Merchant Mariner, operating boats runs deep in his family. Myles has held multiple roles within the marine industry between Marine Towing and Salvage, Marine Technician and Marine Service Manager. Myles’ focus has always had the customers best interest in mind; expect the same attention while consulting with Myles.

Ethan Morawski Ethan grew up in Fairfield CT and has been sailing for 13 years and powerboating for 10 years all over Long Island Sound. He has worked in the marine industry since High School and has an excellent reputation for superb customer service, seamanship, and attention to details. He is a graduate of Bryant University in RI.

Position Title: Boat Yard Crew Member Position Type: Full-time Experience level:  2-3 years preferred

Reports to: Service Manager

Job Description and Summary: In this position you will work alongside a team of supportive and experienced marine industry professionals. Your primary role will be to support the efficient daily operations of the McMichael yacht yard and the satisfaction of our customers.

This will include a variety of functions and tasks including basic property maintenance, launch and recovery of boats, cleaning, crane and forklift operations, blocking boats, and winter storage and other relevant duties as assigned.

Core Skills:

  • Ability to clearly understand instructions and complete tasks accordingly
  • Mechanically inclined
  • Able to lift and reposition equipment, tools, and materials
  • Basic boat operations – power and sail (will train)
  • Strong communication skills, verbal and written
  • Focus on customer satisfaction
  • Proactive mindset
  • Able to work unsupervised
  • Ability to collaboratively work well with other team members

Responsibilities:

  • Support of daily operations
  • Support clients boating activities, prepping boats, fueling, etc.
  • Safe operation of company vehicles, forklifts, and equipment, including trailer handling
  • Haul, block and launch boats
  • Boat cleaning and detailing
  • Bottom paint and waxing boats
  • Dock and marina area maintenance
  • Shrink wrapping
  • Repositioning boats

The ideal candidate is someone who will enjoy the nautical environment of the boatyard, which includes being around boats and being on the water. They will have at least two to three years of experience at a previous boat yard or yacht club. Their background will include a familiarity with boats. They will be someone who enjoys the boating lifestyle and enjoys working outdoors. They value working in a team and being part of a family-owned organization an enhancing part of the local community. We encourage you to apply if you do not have the experience but are dedicated to building a career in the marine industry.

What does a typical workday look like? A typical morning could involve arriving and immediately removing covers, prepping several boats to be launched and readied for use by their clients. You could find yourself assisting with changing a large tire on a trailer or rigging and craning a boat onto a truck for transportation. Daily activities will also include basic maintenance of the boatyard facilities which includes painting, building repair, emptying garbage, and cleaning, as well as assisting technicians with boat maintenance.

Salary range: $15 – $30

Email: [email protected]

https://vimeo.com/758079548

Position Title: Fiberglass / GelCoat Technician Position Type: Full-time Experience level:  2-3 years preferred

Job Description and Summary: In this position you will work alongside a team of supportive and experienced marine industry professionals. Your primary role will be fiberglass and gel-coat repair work on sailboats and powerboats. The fiberglass work will include everything from small parts repair to structural repair and rebuilds. The gelcoat work will be similarly inclusive and will also involve spaying hull bottoms and topsides with boat bottom paint and gelcoat.

  • Working with vinylester, polyester, and epoxy resins
  • Experience working with various coring materials
  • Knowledge of gelcoat matching and application
  • Cutting, grinding and finish sanding
  • Visually spot imperfections in all parts
  • Use of buffers, DA’s, pencil grinders etc.
  • Finish buffing and polishing
  • Exceptional paint rolling and spraying finishing
  • Proactive mindset and able to work unsupervised
  • Complete fiberglass and composite repair work to the highest possible standards
  • Spray gelcoat, clear coat, and metal flake consistently and evenly to desired thickness
  • Getting the customer back on the water with a safe operating boat
  • Ensuring all repair work structurally and visually exceeds expectations
  • Lifting heaving objects
  • Assisting the entire service teams with various tasks

The ideal candidate is someone who will enjoy the nautical environment of the boatyard, which includes being around boats and being on the water. They will have at least two to three years of experience in fiberglass and composites fabrication or repair as well as experience with painting and gelcoat work or similar skill sets. Their background will include a familiarity with boats and enjoy delivering exceptional finish work. They will be someone who appreciates the boating lifestyle and working sail and powerboats. We are looking for a person who values working in a team and being part of a family-owned organization that is a respected part of the local community.

Salary and benefits: $50 – 70k, Medical, 401K

Position Title: Marine Service Mechanic Position Type: Full-time Experience level:  2-3 years preferred. Certifications Preferred. Equal skills and high motivation also accepted.

Job Description and Summary: In this position you will work alongside a team of supportive and experienced marine industry professionals. Your primary role will be engine maintenance and repairs for both gas and diesel engine systems as well as service and repair work on a variety of other boat system. A large part of this position will include troubleshooting, engine and drive preventative maintenance, emergency repairs at the yard or at the location of the boat needing service. You will be working on inboard and outboard systems and interacting and communicating with our boaters, so a focus on customer service is an important skill. Certification not initial required but is a plus.

  • Effective and knowledgeable mechanic
  • Problem solving – engines, drives, control systems and electrical
  • Mechanical and electrical troubleshooting
  • Engine rebuilds, 12v DC systems, machining work
  • Gas and diesel engine/generator operations
  • Wiring and soldering
  • Performing maintenance and repairs safely and quickly
  • Have your own set of tools
  • Performing functionality checks on engines and systems
  • Basic boat operations

The ideal candidate is someone who will enjoy the nautical environment of the boatyard, which includes being around boats and being on the water. They will have at least two to three years of experience as a marine service technician, automotive mechanic, Gen Tech, or similar skill sets. Their background will include a familiarity with boats and enjoy solving mechanical and systems issues. They will be someone who enjoys the boating lifestyle and working outdoors. They value working in a team and being part of a family-owned organization an enhancing part of the local community. We encourage you to apply if you do not have the experience but are dedicated to building a career in the marine service industry.

Salary and benefits: $60 – 80k, Medical, 401K

Position Title: Yacht Sales Consultant Position Type: Full-time Experience level:  2-3 years preferred

Reports to: Sales Manager

Job Description and Summary: In this position you will work alongside the McMichael Sales Team to consult with our client boaters, guiding them to find and purchase the best yacht for their modern boating needs. You will work with an experienced team that specializes in premium racing and sailing yachts, as well as high-performance inboard and outboard day and cruising power yachts. You will work with existing clients as well as being responsible for identifying, nurturing, and closing new clients. You will cultivate relationships with our clients and their families that demonstrate the highest degree of professionalism for the McMichael brand. You will be supported by the team to help you locate, acquire, and nurture prospective new client boaters. You will be a part of a sales and service team that caters to the all-encompassing boating needs of the McMichael community of boaters.

  • Active listening
  • Conveying key features and distinguishing selling points of a given boat model
  • Ability to close high-value sales from $500k – $3M
  • Prospect farming
  • Excellent negotiating skills
  • Influencing with content through digital and social media tools
  • Consulting with and guiding clients effectively
  • Proactive mindset that fosters successful unsupervised work
  • Ability to work collaboratively with other team members
  • Close deals on new yacht sales
  • Deliver world class service in the form of professionalism, knowledge, and customer service
  • Acquire and develop prospects into leads, then into new boat sales
  • Attend boat shows and events to meet with and engage boaters
  • Use digital and social media tools to engage with boaters
  • Secure used boat listings
  • Close used boat sales
  • Guide boaters through the research, selection, specification, closing, delivery, and commissioning process
  • Work with the Sales Team to constantly increase brand and model knowledge
  • Influence your client boaters to choose McMichael Yards for their boat servicing and storage needs

The ideal candidate is someone who will enjoy the nautical/boating lifestyle and has grown up around boats. They will have previous experience selling in the corporate environment, in addition to a strong boating background and several years of selling yachts over 30 feet and over $500K. They will be an excellent communicator who is able to convey information clearly and concisely. They will be motivated to constantly learn more and achieve more regarding new boats and sales goals. They will be a person who can collaborate with all the members of the sales team to find creative solutions to barriers and issues.

Experience Level Experienced as a sail or power boater or similar industry background 2-3 years preferred

Salary and benefits: Base of $50 – $70k, commissions, Medical, 401K

John Glynn John brings to McMichael more than three decades of sailing, boating and sales experience. In addition to his time at BEYC, Glynn’s resume includes years as an Associate Editor (and Contributing Editor) for Sailing World magazine, where he was part of the team that created both the “Boat of the Year” awards and the NOOD Regattas. Over the years he has raced aboard C&C 40s, New York 36s, J/35s, Express 37s and Farr 40s, as well as his own J/30 and Soverel 33 Grey Seal. He boats with his family out of Captain Harbor in Greenwich, CT.

“John brings a wealth of experience as a racer, boat owner and industry professional,” said Michael Beers, McMichael Sales Manager. “He will be a fantastic resource for his clients in buying and selling boats. We’re proud to have him on our team, and his background will help us continue to fulfill our motto, ‘Experience Counts!’”

“I’ve been fortunate enough to spend my career in and around the sailing and boating community, enabling me to love the various jobs I’ve held,” said Glynn. “In joining McMichael Yacht Brokers I’ve found another fresh, new outlet from which to apply my knowledge of and passion for yachting. Moreover, I’m able to do that while working in the company of some of the finest yacht brokers in the business. It is my hope to bring to my brokerage customers a sense of confidence and satisfaction as they make yacht transactions, both from the buyer’s and seller’s sides.”

Cameron Campbell Cameron has been boating his entire life, starting as a toddler on Great South Bay on Long Island. He grew up in Connecticut and spent every summer on Long Island Sound. In college he was a member of the University of Rhode Island Sailing Team and also ran operations at the URI Waterfront Center. After college he was an ASA Sailing Instructor at the New York Sailing School on City Island and then for Olympic Circle Sailing on San Francisco Bay. He participated in many regattas on both coasts in both small and large boats. He owned a Sabre for many years which he cruised from Annapolis to Maine. Cameron also has experience with power boats ranging from center consoles though larger cruisers.

Cameron has been working with clients preparing for Bermuda races, extensive blue water cruising, and many that are new to boating.

Rick Fleig Rick grew up on Long Island spending many years sailing on the Sound in everything from J/22′s to J/105′s, Custom C&C 41′s and many other boats, competing in all the major Northeast events. This experience and passion for sailing led him on a path to sail in the 1987 America’s Cup in Perth, Australia with both the Courageous and USA Syndicates. He has sailed in many major international regattas, including the Swan World Championships in Sardinia, the World 6 Meter Championships in Portofino, Italy, and several Newport Bermuda races.

Rick combines his extensive sailing background with both the marine and sports industry, having worked as a regional sales manager at SunfishLaser and Vanguard Sailboats, and prior to that as a regional sales representative with sporting goods giant Nike. He believes that building relationships and understanding the clients’ needs are essential in helping customers have a great experience with their boats. He works out of the McMichael Yacht Broker’s Newport office at the Newport Shipyard.

Rick resides in Portsmouth, RI, with his family, having fallen in love with the Newport area during his many sailing events there. He recently retired as the director/coach of the Portsmouth High School Sailing Team after many years, and along with his wife, Carline, now enjoys his time proudly following their youngest son, Tyler, who just finished his second year at the US Naval Academy. Tyler is a very accomplished sailor himself, and a member of the nationally ranked USNA dinghy sailing team. Rick is a member of Sail Newport and can be seen racing many weeknights and weekends in all the local events in a variety of boats.

Michael Beers Michael is a licensed captain and active racer who began his sailing career in Boston on the Charles River. As someone who did not grow up sailing, he especially enjoys introducing new boaters to the sport. Michael has a proven track record of working tirelessly for his clients, and enjoys working directly with buyers to identify the best possible “next boat” from the many options available. He is an active racer, recently racing in the J/70 fleet at Quantum Key West Race Week and aboard the J/130 Dragonly in the 2012 Newport Bermuda Race.

Prior to joining McMichael in 2007, he captained the 80′ schooner Adirondack II in Newport, RI and was an instructor at Offshore Sailing. In his free time, he enjoys cruising his Sabre.

Todd Williams Todd started sailing on his family’s cruising boat before his memory serves. His love of racing was cultivated through sailing Blue Jays and Lasers in Pequot Yacht Club’s junior program.  Since then he has actively raced in the J105 fleet, J109 fleet, and helped form the J122 class. He also developed and helped launch the LIS IRC 35 class.  Todd is an experienced distance sailor and was involved with winning the Vineyard race class and IRC overall aboard the J122 Partnership.  

Todd enjoys using his extensive knowledge of boating to find his clients the boat that best suits their needs.  He is dedicated to providing the best possible service to all his customers.  Todd can often be found racing with clients and helping them build their racing programs. Through the years, he has custom built many J/Boats, Alerions, and MJM power boats for clients, many of whom he now considers personal friends.

During the winter season you may spot the Williams family on the slopes at Okemo where they have a ski house.

Andy Kaplan Starting October 4, Andrew (Andy) Kaplan has joined the brokerage team at McMichael Yacht Yards & Brokers. The addition increases the McMichael roster to seven full-time yacht brokers serving customers up and down the east coast with a concentration on the Long Island Sound and Narragansett Bay. He will work primarily out of the McMichael Mamaroneck, NY, office as well as Martha’s Vineyard.

“Andy is bringing to McMichael a lifetime of experience in sail and power boating with a keen focus in the sailboat racing world,” said McMichael President Steve Leicht. “His broad familiarity with offshore and one-design sailboats combined with his powerboating experience makes him an ideal addition to our brokerage team.”

Kaplan spent the majority of his career in finance including helping create the Quattro Global Capital, LLC where he was a principal and head of operation and marketing. “I believe that my financial sales and management experience is a great asset as I transition to yacht brokerage,” noted Kaplan. “While they are different industries, to succeed in either you need similar disciplines when matching buyers with the right product. That’s what creates and maintains long term customer relationships.”

Kaplan grew-up in Mamaroneck and has been a member of the Larchmont Yacht Club for over 30 years where he has been active in the Club’s leadership. He lives in New Rochelle, NY, and on Martha’s Vineyard, MA.

where are amel yachts built

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2023 Amel 50

Amel 50

IMAGES

  1. 2021 Amel 60 Center Cockpit for sale

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  2. Amel 60, The Spirit Of Amel In A New Enhanced Version

    where are amel yachts built

  3. Spirit of AMEL Yachts

    where are amel yachts built

  4. A closer look at the in-build Espen Øino Amels 60 yacht

    where are amel yachts built

  5. AMEL Yachts History A French Specialist Yacht Builder

    where are amel yachts built

  6. Luxury Sailing Yacht AMEL 60 (sloop-rigged)

    where are amel yachts built

VIDEO

  1. Why Did We Remove Our Beautiful Backdrops?

  2. Amel yachts NEW VERSION

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  4. KAMALAYA I 55M/180' Amels Yacht for charter

  5. Sailing boat Amel 54 feets in immaculate condition with Stéphane DELFINO

  6. Launch of the first AMEL50 (Luxury Sailing Yacht)

COMMENTS

  1. Amel Yachts

    Amel's first boat, the Super Mistral Sport, was built in Marseille after he took over a failing shipyard. The boat itself was a success, but the business failed. [3] In 1963, Amel began building boats in the shipyard of another builder at La Rochelle. He split off on his own, founding Chantiers Amel in 1965.

  2. Our story

    Henri Amel built new yards in Périgny, a new business park in La Rochelle. These new premise were inaugurated in January 1969 and would produce every one of AMEL's yachts up to the current models. 1968. Euros 39. 11.75m, AMEL's first ketch, produced from 1966 to 1972. 1972. 1972.

  3. Home

    Building robust, comfortable and easy-to-handle sailing yachts was Henri Amel's ethos. Offering sailing enthusiasts the opportunity for an adventure on all the world's seas requires impeccable construction in terms of quality, safety and comfort. We have successfully built on these key elements of the AMEL spirit in our latest 50-foot and ...

  4. Amels

    Since our relocation in 2003, all Amels yachts are built in Vlissingen in the south-west of the Netherlands, a centre of shipbuilding excellence for over 700 years. Our location is the largest superyacht facility in the Netherlands and home to our 1,500 craftsmen and women. ... Of the founders and builders of the first Amels shipyard and yachts ...

  5. Amel

    Famed French builder of yachts specifically designed for long distance cruising. Founded by Henri Amel. ADDRESS 8 rue Joseph Cugnot, 17180 PERIGNY, FRANCE. EMAIL [email protected] CALL US +335 46 55 17 31. Years in Business: 1960 - present. Sailboats Built By Amel (Dates indicate when boat was first built by any builder) Sort by:

  6. Amel 60 review: This modern cruiser is a true benchmark for quality

    In 6-7 knots true wind and flat water, we sat at 5.4 knots - impressive stuff for a 26 tonne boat. With its cutter configuration, the Amel sails well and is easy to manage while its electrically ...

  7. The amazing cult of Amel yachts

    November 27, 2015. Amel yachts are French bluewater cruisers are like no others on the market. Elaine Bunting looks at why. Many people who buy a long-distance bluewater cruising yacht are ...

  8. At Amel Yachts of La Rochelle

    Sturdiness and Seaworthiness: Amel yachts for going everywhere. Amel yachts are made of GRP with a foam core. The rigid lamination is done by vacuum infusion process and utilizes common state of the art techniques. ... Not the Amel 50 is the first sloop built by the Amel yard. The Kirk 36 from the seventies is also a sloop and I think there are ...

  9. Amel 50 review: An indoor sailing experience to excite even hardened

    Amel has a long established following for yachts designed and built to match the needs of liveaboard and bluewater cruisers. It is reputed for its singular way of doing things and is famed for its ...

  10. Sharing our savoir-faire

    SHARING OUR SAVOIR-FAIRE Discover PERFECTIONISM, PASSION AND SHARING Passion and know-how have characterized AMEL shipyards for more than 50 years. Each sailboat built is the result of close collaboration between the different departments. With enthusiasm and professionalism, the AMEL teams are involved day after day to deliver unique sailboats with incomparable finishes. Through this video […]

  11. Amel 60

    The multi-award-winning Amel 60 is built with many inclusions and safety features. These features aim to increase autonomy and respect for the environment, but also to further improve comfort and performance at sea. ... On display at the Cannes Yachting Festival will be the new Amel 50 and Amel 60 yachts Flagstaff Marine are the Australian Amel ...

  12. AMEL Yachts History A French Specialist Yacht Builder

    AMEL YACHT · HENRI AMEL. Henri worked for 40 years in the company before his death at 90. Amel Yachts built world-class blue water yachts following the same principles that Henri etched into the brand's history. To date, the Amel yard has produced over 2,000 yachts . You can find an Amel yacht in all parts of the globe.

  13. Boat Review: Amel 50

    With its 74ft mast and 7ft keel, the Amel 50 is not an ICW-style cruiser. Although the boat can be managed almost entirely from the deckhouse, for those times when the crew still needs to go forward, Amel looks after their security with teak decks, strong grabrails and an exceptionally effective nonskid on all fiberglass surfaces.

  14. Boat Review: Amel 50

    It's probably best to just state the obvious: The Amel 50 is très cool, and oh-so remarkable in oh-so many ways. In the 2020 Boat of the Year competition, the Amel was runner-up to the X-Yachts X46 in the Full-Size Cruiser 45 to 55 Feet class. It was the most heavily contested division in the competition, one that the judging panel agonized ...

  15. Amel Yachts for sale

    Amel. At present, Amel, a yacht brand has 56 yachts available for purchase on YachtWorld. This collection encompasses 6 newly built vessels as well as 50 pre-owned yachts, with all listings, handled by yacht brokers, primarily concentrated in France, Italy, Grenada, Malaysia and French Polynesia. YachtWorld offers a diverse array of models ...

  16. Amel 60 (Amel)

    The Amel 60 is a 59'1" (18m) cruising sailboat designed by Berret Racoupeau Yachts Design (France). She is built since 2019 by Amel (France). She has been awarded "2020 - European Yacht of the Year: Luxury Cruiser".Find out more about the Amel 60 on Boat-Spec's blog: European Yacht of the Year 2020 nominated sailboats.

  17. Amel Super Maramu Specs and Review

    The Amel Super Maramu is a 52' 6" sailing yacht first built in 1989 until it was discontinued in 2005, after a production run of 497 hulls. It emphasized comfort and convenience, with built-in features ideal for long-distance sailing. The most popular version was the Amel Super Maramu 2000, which Cruising World once recognized as the Year ...

  18. Spirit of AMEL Yachts

    In 1964, Henri Amel founded the eponymous Chantiers AMEL in La Rochelle, France, turning his dream - to build yachts that guaranteed safety and comfort no matter the sailing conditions - into reality. To this day, each AMEL yacht is designed and built in the La Rochelle factory to the exacting standards of its founder.

  19. AMELS Yachts

    AMELS yachts brief history. Amels shipyard was founded in 1918. For about 64 years, they built magnificent sailing yachts—among other types of maritime vessels. In 1982, they shifted their focus to luxury superyachts. From this point, it became the goal of many high-net-worth people to own an " Amel.".

  20. Amel 60 review: This modern cruiser is a true benchmark for quality

    The smaller Amel 50 was the first to break the mould and set the new style when launched in 2017. A brave new look along with its quality of build and fit out was recognised straight away and it shot up the charts winning European Yacht of the Year in 2018. The company has since built just short of 50 boats.

  21. Amel Yachts

    The AMEL spirit is behind every stage in the construction process, from the choice of materials to internal finish, along with the service provided to AMEL customers around the world. Fully designed and manufactured in La Rochelle, each unit is delivered by an AMEL technician, with one week to get to grips with the yacht. Owners can familiarise ...

  22. Amels

    Full Custom. 120 metres. 2025. In build. 1. 2. 3. …. Explore our yachts delivered to date and our future fleet of yachts on order.

  23. 2023 Amel 50

    The Amel 50 EVO is a centre cockpit global cruising yacht built to the highest safety standards, comfort and ease of use. Every Amel 50 is built to customer order in France. The 3 cabin, 2 head layout is ideal for cruising and longer stays aboard. Amel have just released to new Amel 50 EVO which features many new features and upgrades to make ...