Sunreef Yachts has become a prominent player in the luxury yacht industry with its innovative catamarans. The company, founded by Francis Lapp, has grown from a small operation in Gdańsk, Poland to a leading manufacturer of high-end catamarans.
Sunreef Yachts is currently focused on developing a new 140ft model, reflecting the increasing demand for larger and more luxurious yachts. The company plans to double the workforce in Ras Al Khaimah in the coming year.
Despite its success, only about five percent of Sunreef's orders come from Middle Eastern customers. Lapp believes that the Middle Eastern market has yet to fully embrace the concept of luxury catamarans and hopes to change this perception through exposure and experience.
Sunreef Yachts focuses on combining luxury with functionality, incorporating sustainable practices such as the use of recycled materials and plans to include flax fiber composites in their designs. The company is also dedicated to developing hybrid and electric models, with half of its current order book dedicated to these environmentally friendly options.
Lapp envisions a future where yacht owners prefer to explore remote locations rather than traditional glamorous destinations. This shift in mindset has led to an increased interest in catamarans, which offer stability and spaciousness, making them ideal for family outings and extended voyages.
Despite challenges such as a shortage of skilled labor in Poland, Sunreef Yachts has thrived by attracting a diverse workforce, including refugees from Ukraine. The company's commitment to in-house operations allows for quick responses to client demands, including custom features.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also contributed to the growth of the yacht industry, as more individuals sought safe havens on the water. Sunreef Yachts generated €200 million in revenue last year, highlighting the increasing popularity of luxury catamarans. Lapp sees himself as a pioneer in a competitive landscape where monohull manufacturers are recognizing the appeal of catamarans.
Sunreef Yachts is expanding into new markets, including a manufacturing site outside Dubai, to meet the rising demand for solar-powered boats in the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. Lapp's vision extends beyond production, aiming to redefine luxury sailing by integrating advanced technology and sustainable practices into every aspect of the business.
Lapp emphasizes that the modern yacht owner values experiences over traditional notions of luxury. Sunreef's catamarans are designed and tailored to meet the evolving needs of this new generation of sailors.
With a growing list of celebrity clients and a full order book for the next two years, Sunreef Yachts is set to continue its success in the luxury yacht sector, setting new standards for design, sustainability, and customer satisfaction.