Founded in 1992 by Jean-Pierre Kelbert, the JPK Composites shipyard has established itself as a major player in the design of high-performance and innovative sailboats. Based in Larmor-Plage, Brittany, it has evolved from crafting high-end windsurfing boards to producing internationally renowned racing-cruising sailboats. A look back at the history of this iconic shipyard.
The JPK Composites shipyard was born
In the 1990s, the recreational boating market underwent a significant evolution, marked by a growing demand for boats combining performance and quality. It was in this context that Jean-Pierre Kelbert, a former member of the French national windsurfing team and two-time European champion in 1988 and 1989, founded JPK Composites in 1992. Initially specializing in the manufacture of high-end windsurfing boards, the shipyard distinguished itself through its expertise in composites and its commitment to innovation.
In the early 2000s, faced with the relocation of windsurfing board production to Asia, JPK Composites made a strategic shift by venturing into the construction of racing-cruising sailboats. The meeting between Jean-Pierre Kelbert and naval architect Jacques Valer proved pivotal. Together, they designed the JPK 9.60, launched in 2003, which quickly became a benchmark for its versatility and performance in both racing and cruising.
Key moments in the history of the construction site
Since its creation, JPK Composites has made its mark on the world of boating with several notable achievements:
- two thousand three : Launch of the JPK 9.60, the shipyard’s first sailboat, praised for its performance and versatility.
- two thousand six : Introduction of the JPK 110, a 37-foot boat designed to perform well in regattas while remaining accessible to recreational boaters.
- two thousand ten : Release of the JPK 10.10, which will be elected “IRC boat of the year” by the UNCL at the Paris boat show.
- two thousand fifteen : The JPK 10.80 wins the title of “European Yacht of the Year” in the “Performance Cruiser” category at the BOOT international trade fair in Düsseldorf.
- two thousand sixteen : Launch of the JPK 45 FC, voted “Sailboat of the Year 2017” at the Paris Boat Show.
- two thousand eighteen Introducing the JPK 11.80, designed for racing and fast crewed cruising.
The construction site today
Today, JPK Composites is renowned for the quality and performance of its sailboats, prized by both competitive sailors and recreational boaters seeking thrills. The shipyard employs around forty passionate people and produces approximately 25 boats per year. Its location in Brittany, in the heart of the “Sailing Valley,” allows it to benefit from a dynamic ecosystem dedicated to competitive sailing.
JPK’s reputation rests on a close collaboration between Jean-Pierre Kelbert and Jacques Valerwhose innovative designs have led to numerous successes in competition. The shipyard continues to innovate by integrating cutting-edge technologies, notably the use of infusion for the construction of its hulls, guaranteeing lightness and robustness.
The most popular models from the JPK construction site
Here is a list of JPK Composites’ flagship models, along with their launch year and architect:
- JPK 9.60 (2003) – Architect : Jacques Valer
- JPK 110 (2006) – Architect : Jacques Valer
- JPK 40 (2007) – Architect : Jacques Valer
- JPK 10.10 (2010) – Architect : Jacques Valer
- JPK 38 FC (2012) – Architect : Jacques Valer
- JPK 10.80 (2014) – Architect : Jacques Valer
- JPK 45 FC (2016) – Architect : Jacques Valer
- JPK 11.80 (2018) – Architect : Jacques Valer
Each of these models illustrates JPK Composites’ commitment to producing sailboats that combine performance, build quality and sailing pleasure, thus consolidating its leading position in the recreational boating market.