Founded in 1973, the Alubat shipyard has established itself as a leader in aluminum boatbuilding. Specializing in offshore cruising sailboats, the shipyard has forged an international reputation thanks to its robust and elegant vessels. This article traces the history of Alubat, from its beginnings amidst upheaval in the world of yachting to its contemporary evolution.
The shipyard’s origins: the context of the pleasure boating market at the time
In the 1970s, recreational boating was undergoing a major transformation. The advent of composite materials like polyester revolutionized the market, offering lighter and less expensive vessels. However, two sailing enthusiasts, Jean-Claude Lajule and Michel Bénard, decided to focus on a less common material with exceptional qualities: aluminum. Aluminum offered both unparalleled strength and a lightness ideal for sailors planning long voyages.
Alubat’s first models, although inspired by traditional hulls, quickly distinguished themselves through their meticulous construction and their ability to sail safely, even in extreme conditions. These robust and proven sailboats met a growing need among boaters: the need for uncompromising adventure.
Key moments in the history of the construction site
Alubat’s history is marked by significant successes:
- 1973: Foundation of the construction site Alubat was created in a modest workshop in Vendée, at a time when aluminium shipbuilding was still in its infancy.
- 1978: Launch of UFO 28 This sailboat became the shipyard’s first major commercial success. Designed for long-distance cruising, it was equipped with a lifting keel, a major innovation.
- 1980s: International Expansion Alubat is opening up to exports, particularly to North American and Scandinavian markets, attracted by the robustness and quality of the aluminum units.
- 1992: Launch of the Cigale range With the arrival of the Cigale 14, designed by Jean-Marie Finot, the shipyard demonstrates its ability to innovate and diversify its ranges, incorporating faster and more modern sailboats.
- 2000-2010: Increase in power The company develops iconic models such as the Ovni 365 and the Ovni 445, confirming its status as a world leader in aluminium sailboats.
- 2018: Construction resumes Facing financial difficulties, Alubat was taken over by private investors, who injected new energy while respecting the company’s heritage.
The Alubat construction site today
Today, Alubat is based in Les Sables-d’Olonne and remains a key player in the long-distance cruising sailboat market. With limited annual production, the shipyard focuses on quality and customization, adapting each boat to the specific needs of its clients.
Alubat’s reputation rests on several pillars:
- Robustness Alubat sailboats are designed to sail in extreme conditions, from tropical seas to polar areas.
- Innovation With its welded aluminium hulls and lifting keels, the shipyard continues to offer advanced technical solutions.
- Personalization : Each boat is made to order, according to the buyer’s specifications.
Despite increased competition, particularly from construction sites using composite materials, Alubat retains a loyal customer base, attracted by its unique expertise.
The most popular and sought-after models
| Model | Launch year | Architect |
|---|---|---|
| Ovni 28 | one thousand nine hundred seventy-eight | Philippe Briand |
| Ovni 30 | one thousand nine hundred seventy-eight | Philippe Briand |
| Ovni 36 | one thousand nine hundred eighty | Philippe Briand |
| Ovni 395 | two thousand two | Philippe Briand |
| Ovni 445 | two thousand eight | Mark Lombard |
| Ovni 450 | two thousand nineteen | Mark Lombard |
| Cigale 14 | one thousand nine hundred ninety-two | Jean-Marie Finot |
| Cicada 16 | two thousand six | Jean-Marie Finot |
With a rich heritage and iconic models, the Alubat shipyard remains a true symbol of excellence in the field of offshore yachting.