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Windelo shipyard – based in Canet-en-Roussillon in Southern France, is busy building and launching a range of innovative catamarans in the performance multihull market.

The first Windelo 50 Adventure was launched in February 2021. The two other versions of the Windelo 50 are Yachting and Sport and the design was upgraded in July 2023 with a newer sleeker look that accommodates even more solar.

Windelo’s philosophy is to combine innovation with ecology, performance, safety, and comfort.

To do so, they teamed up with the best in the business: architects Christophe Barreau and Frédéric Neuman, well-known for designing performance cruisers. The result is a boat with impeccably designed slim well-balanced hulls that enhance performance and seaworthiness. Stable and light, they can carry a generous sail plan.

The Windelo 50 is a good-looking boat with fine entry bows and a punchy power to weight ratio. She has been inspired by decades of performance catamaran design (read our Gunboat 66 review for an example).

Windelo 50 Boat Tour and Test Sail: Canet-en-Rousillon to Cannes

Performance with Comfort Windelo is positioned firmly in the performance segment, but with an eye on providing innovative solutions to keep the comfort levels high. The team has moved the bar high in the catamaran design by placing the twin helm in the forward cockpit and in result creating an open, spacious living area just behind it. This catamaran competes with the likes of the Seawind 1370 (well probably the 1600 based on size), the Outremer 51 and the Balance 526.

Hakuna Matata, a Windelo 50 has completed a double Atlantic crossing (there and back) during which she used only 800 litres of diesel (including fuel used for heating when they were north). There is a link to the owner’s review at the foot of this review.

The Windelo 50 comes with strong eco credentials which is all part of the company philosophy, As well as the electric power unit, solar energy and hydrogeneration off the props, the construction process has been developed to minimise the carbon footprint.

The structure is made from a new environmentally-friendly robust composite sandwich, mixing basalt fiber and PET foam from recycled plastic bottles.

The basalt fiber is spun in Russia and woven in Belgium and provides an impressive mechanical resistance with a black carbon-like finish.

This new innovative composite cuts the carbon emission footprint by almost half compared with traditional GRP composite manufacturing methods.

Hybrid engine power

The standard power unit is composed of two electric engines that are connected to a bank of lithium batteries. These can be charged using solely green energy: solar panels placed on the roof and the bridge, and hydrogeneration off the props. The whole idea of the Windelo 50 is to use your sails and green energy as much as possible, but there is also a backup generator which kicks in after a couple of hours if you are stuck in the doldrums, extending the cruising range in a flat calm to about 1 100 nautical miles.

Prop Shafts Another nice feature is that the electric motors drive the folding propellers through prop shafts, which should increase robustness and reduce maintenance costs.

The Forward Cockpit

The big story with the Windelo 50 is the central forward helm station. This isn’t a cockpit for lounging like you would see on a Lagoon 55 , this is where the sailing is done. All of the running rigging, sailing instruments and catamaran controls are handled safely amidships, behind the mast. You can access the cockpit either through the saloon or from the deck.

The forward cockpit is set up with 2 fully protected helm stations with great view of the sails and the bows. The cockpit is well protected from the elements if needed: with the sliding doors open, it will become part of the living space. There has been plenty of innovation in this area within the industry (the Balance 482 Versahelm for example), and Windelo have opened up a whole new avenue here with this set up.

Set up for Short-Handed Sailing With her self-tacking solent, she is an easy boat to handle with a short-handed crew and moves fast and high upwind due to dagger-boards positioned at the center of the hull to maximise their hydrodynamic performance.

Panoramic Views

The saloon takes the Open space concept to a new level. The whole space can be opened up, including the side windows, so that the outside comes inside. Ventilation is maximised with a wide selection of openings on all four sides. The innovative design continues down below with wrap around windows in the aft cabins.

The aft platform with davits pivot to increase the floor area at anchor. We love the pilot berth for night shifts or simply using it to relax or as an extra sleeping space.

Semi-Custom Build

Every sailing adventure is unique, and Windelo takes this well into consideration. In addition to being able to choose between three different models: Adventure, Yachting and Sport, you can personalize this catamaran with different options and layouts.

There are various options including a 4 berth, 3 berth (owner’s cabin), 3 berth owner’s with office and variations with a skipper’s berth in the forepeak. The aft cabin berths can be configured athwartships or fore and aft. The owners of very first Windelo 50 Adventure have opted for a working office in one of their forward cabins. All the bespoke furniture is built at Windelo’s own joinery by their carpentry team.

The Windelo 50 is an innovative launch in a booming segment: the 50-foot performance catamaran market. With her forward cockpit and central helms, open-to-the-max concept and tidy profile, she will be a popular choice for sailors looking for speed without compromising on comfort.

For more information on the Windelo 50 head to windelo-catamaran.com .

Owner’s Review

We have also spoken to the owner of Hakuna Matata, the #1 hull (Windelo 50 Adventure). You can get more information on this catamaran on our Windelo 50 Owner’s Review page.

A Proven Eco Ocean Crosser

Windelo 50s continue to log the miles and cross oceans. Hakuna Matata, the #1 hull, was the first: she left Canet-en-Roussillon marina on 17 October 2021 and set sail for the Spanish coast and then onto the Canaries before sailing across the Atlantic to Martinique.

After a few weeks in the West Indies and the Caribbean, she sailed up the United States East Coast, north to Florida, New York, Boston, and then Canada.

The return crossing was completed between St Pierre and Miquelon and Iceland, before setting sail for the Faroe Islands, Scotland, and then the French Atlantic coast. In August 2022, Hakuna Matata then sailed back to the Mediterranean to Canet-en-Roussillon.

In eight months across 20,000 nm, Hakuna Matata only used just 800 litres of diesel, including that used for heating in the colder sailing areas. This is equivalent to 2 litres / 100km or 100 miles per gallon (117 miles per US gallon).

What is the difference between 3 versions: Adventure, Yachting and Sport? Adventure Designed for exploration and adventure, this robust package is easy to maintain. This version comes with lifting daggerboards or high-performance fixed fin keels. Yachting A high-end finish with top quality materials for maximum comfort. Configured for fast, easy and comfortable navigation to take you across the oceans or just enjoying shorter cruising. Sport Tuned for maximum performance, Windelo have saved 500 kg on the Sport version by removing, for example, the crossbeam forward, and replacing it with a longitudinal fore beam. All the materials used have been carefully chosen to limit weight.

How Much Does a Windelo 50 Cost? What is the Price Tag? This will depend on the options and pack you go for of course, but the prices start at €995k, €1075k and €1095k ex taxes for the Adventure, Sport and Yachting, respectively. We would estimate that you will need to add an additional €1-200k for your options to give you an idea of the sail away price. She is priced competitively versus the competition.

Who Are the People Behind Windelo? The company philosophy is to bring in the leading expertise onto the project. The founders are Olivier Kaufmann (Ex -Chairman of the Executive Board of Decathlon, Orange Marine, Cabesto) and his son Gautier Kaufmann. Christophe Barreau and Frederic Neuman head up the design team. Jean-Pierre Prade, one of the founders of Catana, is also involved. Didier Perrin (Syltec Consulting) brings his skills in composites and Jean-Paul Siaudeau (JPS Concept, Imoca and Ultimate) heads up the electrical systems and propulsion unit. The École des Mines d’Alès, an engineering school in the South of France is working with Windelo on material resistance. Quite a team!

Technical Specification

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Windelo 54 Yachting

A year after the launch of their first catamaran, the young builder Windelo, who are heavily implicated in eco-responsible construction and sailing, have launched their second model, the Windelo 54. With 4 feet (1.22 m) more hull length compared to the 50, this 54 keeps the same characteristics as her little sistership... with even more comfort and performance!

Test location: La Grande-Motte, South of France Conditions: 5 knots of wind, calm sea

Practical info

• Builder : WINDELO CATAMARAN

• Finance your Windelo 54 Yachting
• Articles about the Windelo 54 Yachting
• Available in special issue # SP18

Boat Test price 5.00 € Inc. tax

Add several tests to your cart

and get an extra discount!

We were able to discover the Windelo 54 Yachting at this year’s International Multihull Show at La Grande-Motte in the South of France back in April. In her gray livery, the catamaran looks great: she picks up on the design of the 50 with narrow but tall hulls, bows noticeably reversed and imposing nacelle windows that are all vertical. That briefly explains the outline of this design by Christophe Barreau, and then the construction is very innovative with the use of basalt fiber and PET foam (from recycled plastic bottles/PVC). The shipyard estimates their carbon impact to be reduced by 47% thanks to the use of this material, but also to internal manufacturing and local supply.

Hybrid electric propulsion

The builder has obviously opted for electric motors: on this example, 2 x 20 kW and various means of charging. To start with, an imposing array of solar panels totaling 4,500 Wp. The manufacturer claims a recharge of the 1,120 Ah / 48 V battery bank from 20 to 80% in 22 hours, so 1.8 days’ worth. At a good speed (11 knots) under sail,...

To read in full, Buy the boat test

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• Windelo Catamarans , 
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The New Windelo 50 on test – An innovative catamaran

A few months ago, Sam Jefferson, journalist for Sailing Today magazine, jump aboard the New Windelo 50 for a sea trial at Canet-en-Roussillon. Discover this New Windelo 50 on test and first impression of our skipper!

“It may sound a bit trite to say that Windelo Catamarans have been on a voyage since it launched its first Windelo 50 in 2021, but it’s also true. I was fortunate to test sail that first boat and was suitably impressed. Setting up a new company from scratch and building a sustainable and innovative catamaran out of basalt is no mean feat. Yet what was more impressive was that the boat was superb; well executed, carefully thought out, and with a high level of finish .”

It was clear that this was a company that was going places. Indeed, Hakuna Matata, the boat I tested in 2021 has also been going places, having completed two Atlantic crossings since its launch.

The company has flourished, and two years and 25 boats later , I find myself once more out on a test sail of the Windelo 50. It feels like visiting an old friend. Yet, although the boat feels familiar, there are marked changes in the new boat compared to the original that I tested back in 2021.

Two years of production and the team at Windelo have given the boat a thorough overhaul using all the knowledge they have garnered from two years of owner feedback to refine and perfect the product .

Hakuna Matata, launched in Febuary 2021

The changes are more dramatic than you might think. As a journalist, I’m often sceptical of much fanfared ‘Mk2’ launches as sometimes the changes can be subtle to the point of non-existent. This certainly is not the case with the Windelo 50Mk2 . One glance at the boat from the dockside underlines that big changes have been made. Previously, the boat had a certain ‘expedition’ look to it thanks to the styling of its coachroof. This has gone and the new edition looks more sleek , more purposeful , and more aggressive .

The reason for this change in character? Simple: the yard has constructed an entirely new deck mold to go on the existing hulls. In case you’re wondering, this is a big deal, as it costs a pretty penny to construct an entirely new deck molding. If you’re wondering what was wrong with the old one, the answer would be nothing because it doesn’t exist; the MK1 Windelo had a deck constructed using several different molds which were put together like a jigsaw puzzle.

This gave the boat a certain distinctive look but it’s also understandable that the manufacturers have chosen to refine the design by going for a single deck molding. It makes for a less complicated build process and gives the deck layout more coherence.

An innovative catamaran

So, if the basic concept remains the same, what’s new? Well, quite a lot. An entirely new deck mold can be transformative . To give you an idea of the scale of change, this has reduced the number of separate component parts of the deck structure from 21 to 3. As you can imagine, that significantly increases efficiency when it comes to actually producing the yachts. From a consumer point of view, it has given Windelo the chance to go for a considerable restyle – hence the more aggressive, streamlined look of the boat when I first saw her alongside the dock.

To achieve this new look, Windelo enlisted the expertise of designer Charlotte Schiffer who worked alongside Barreau and Neuman to create a deck form that had more flow than previously and also presented a better silhouette of the boat. Looking at the boat from the dockside, the new design seemed to be champing at the bit to leave. This is down to tweaks in the styling as much as anything else.

The deckhouse windows are now subtly angled in a way that makes the boat look more dynamic even when at rest, while many of the hard edges have been smoothed out, making for a more curvaceous shape. The angled ‘wave’ which was initially only a design feature of the hull has now been adopted and continued on deck with both the coachroof and cockpit coaming repeating this design motif.

Another significant visual impact is created by the fact that the coachroof extends an extra meter aft . This makes a big impact on the styling of the boat but also has the practical benefits of providing more shade in the aft seating area, more space for solar panels plus allowing crewmembers tasked with stowing the main to be able to walk around the back of the boom – a very useful feature for those who have wrestled with these big multihull mains.

New Windelo 50 on test - The deck

If the visual changes to the boat from the shoreside are already evident, those changes are rapidly amplified once you step onboard. The boat just feels a tad slicker and more professional .

When I first stepped aboard the original Windelo 50, I was amazed that what was essentially a start-up company had succeeded in creating a product that was so slickly put together. Yet there’s little doubt that the new deck mold has moved the overall feel of the boat up a notch.

It’s more the small details, such as the fact that the nonskid is now integrated into the mold that makes the difference here. Equally, solar panels are now shaped to fit into recesses in the deck, which is a stylish touch. There are also two extra hatches forward.

Another important detail is that the daggerboard housing is now recessed into the deck, meaning that when the boards are fully lowered, they sit flush with the deck.

One of the most distinctive features of the Windelo has always been its forward cockpit . Multihull manufacturers have always wrestled somewhat with where to place the helm without compromising visibility. The obvious point is on the bridge deck, but this means you have to raise the boom and the whole center of gravity of the boat.

Others go for aft helms set well outboard, but these can tend to feel a bit vulnerable. Windelo went for a totally different approach and put twin helms just abaft the mast in an enclosed cockpit . This has worked well for them, striking a balance of good visibility , decent feel , a good view of the sails , plus excellent access to the running rigging .

This is also an area that has been significantly refined by the new deck molding. First up, the angled mullions of the cockpit windows allow for better all-round visibility than previously and also give the whole area a greater feeling of space . Equally, the skylights in the coachroof that allow you to check the trip of the mainsail have been enlarged, letting in more light and giving you a better view of the sails .

Meanwhile, the cockpit seats have been reworked so that they feel deeper and hold you in better in a seaway. The helm’s position has also been tweaked slightly to ensure it’s in the absolutely optimal spot. The deck organizers have also been tweaked to make them even easier to use, but the setup remains the same, with all running rigging leading almost directly to the hand of the helmsman. Meanwhile, a self-tacking jib ensures that handling the boat is a breeze.

The aim is that a couple can sail the boat across oceans with ease . Both daggerboards can also be raised and lowered from here. In addition to this, the anchor winch is also right there within the cockpit, giving you a much more immediate view of what’s going on as you lower and raise the anchor.

The setup has proven a big hit for Windelo in part because it means that there is no huge barrier between the ‘sailing’ area of the boat up forward and the saloon, which can be reached via wide sliding ‘patio’ doors. It’s a blending of sailing and relaxing areas that works better than most, while the forward cockpit also feels secure in a blow. As if to underline this, there are well-positioned handholds running fore and aft, while the huge cockpit drain would deal with any stray waves that snuck in .

Back aft, there is more shade – and equal protection from rain – than before, thanks to that elongated coachroof, but beyond that, the whole aft section has been significantly remodeled. The clever setup for raising and lowering the tender has been retained but remodeled. This essentially involved the aft section of the deck pivoting as part of a davit for the dinghy.

This means that when you are sailing, the back deck is raised, thereby enclosing the cockpit, while at anchor, the dinghy is lowered, and the aft deck almost doubles in size . The remodeled version of this clever setup has been rounded off at the corners and feels like a piece with the rest of the boat’s styling. The aft steps have also been reshaped with more curves – both as a point of style but also to make it easier to get on and off the boat.

It’s also worth noting that the upgraded deck design has paid special attention to the runoff of water, with improved guttering ensuring the boat is drier in a seaway.

Down below is a total misnomer with this boat because the forward and aft cockpits blend seamlessly with the saloon. With the sliding patio doors forward open to the forward cockpit and the aft tilt/slide ‘garage door’ open, you have a simply huge living space.

In terms of the interior fit-out, there has been less of a radical revamp with the interior, and the aim here has been simply to provide better continuity with styling , less customized work , and a greater range of fabrics and finish . The test boat featured an L-shaped galley to starboard with a dining table for up to 10 people aft of this.

There is also an optional U-shaped galley with a main seating area to port. Either arrangement features a huge double pilot berth above this where you could happily lounge on watch and keep an eye on things with the autopilot doing the hard work for you. Forward of this berth is a modestly dimensioned chart table to an area with a clever flip-around seat and a big flat screen TV mounted to the forward bulkhead also doubles as an instrument readout while you are underway, making navigation and watch keeping – particularly at night- very practical with all the information at your fingertips.

L-Shaped galley

U-Shaped galley

The finish was excellent, and the notable upgrade was the styling , which was just that little bit more slick, with the wave motif seen in the hull and deck design cleverly incorporated into the interior design, too.

The port hull is devoted to the owner’s suite and, in standard form, runs the full length of the hull. The double berth is set in the aft section of the hull and runs athwartships. The huge curved portlights provide masses of lights and also excellent views . Storage is also good, and access to the bed is also excellent.

How comfortable an athwartship’s berth would be on a catamaran in a big swell fell beyond the parameters of this test, unfortunately. Forward of this was a small office space with a desk, which was a nice touch and shows just how practical these boats are for those who are looking at a ‘work from boat’ lifestyle.

Almost the entire bow of the forward hull is devoted to the ensuite heads and shower, which is simply huge. Their shower cubicle is substantially larger than in many homes and is set right in the bow with the heads set aft.

The starboard hull features twin double cabins , both well dimensioned with separate heads and shower cubicles in the corridor running between the two. This setup is undoubtedly the one that most owners will go for, but there are variations on the theme available. It’s also worth noting that the amount of storage available was impressive .

New Windelo 50 - The sailing test

We sailed out of Canet en Roussillon on a varied day, with the wind peaking at about 15kn. This was good news as I had tested the original Windelo 50 in very modest breezes, so it was good to get a feel for the boat in a bit more of a blow. It’s worth noting that in light winds, the boat can pretty much match the windspeed – although, obviously, I wasn’t expecting that in heavier conditions.

First, though I should mention that getting out of the marina under electric motors was a pleasure; no noise, no fuss. The helm position also works well for maneuvering in tight spaces, with the central positioning and big windows all around ensuring that there are no glaring blind spots when maneuvering. Having the helm in the middle of the boat also helps the maker.

The boat feels smaller when you are in a tight space which is psychologically quite useful .

Green machine

If you’re worrying that two years may have watered down some of Windelo’s green credentials, think again; they remain impeccable, and two years of testing in the exacting forum of the world’s oceans has underlined that hybrid diesel–electric systems genuinely work on fast cruising catamarans (you can watch all the explanations on video ). Hakuna Matata, the first Windelo 50, only used just 800 liters of diesel during a voyage of 2,000nm, including that used for heating in the colder sailing areas.

As a refresher on what makes the Windelo so green compared to competitors, well, for starters, the boat is constructed using woven rovings that are much the same as those used in fiberglass or carbon fiber. The difference is that these fibers are made out of volcanic rock. Many shook their heads a couple of years ago when Windelo adopted this construction method , but the results have been rock solid – if you’ll pardon the pun.

Sustainable PET coring was then used instead of traditional foam, and the plywood for interior fittings was selected from ethically sourced wood . None of these principles have changed from the original model, nor has the use of twin shaft driven 20KW electric motors backed up by MaxProp hydroregenerating propellers, solar panels, and, as a last resort, a diesel generator.

Basalt fiber

Upwind, we were hitting 7kn and sailing about 40 degrees off the wind. The helm on these Windelos is a pleasure compared to many rival big cats .  The combination of rod and Dyneema line works very well, and there is a nice feeling of connection with the elements . It’s worth noting that, although the cockpit is enclosed, you can slide open enough windows to ensure that you feel well connected with the elements, which is one of the most important aspects of sailing.

The light, responsive feel of the wheel also enhanced the enjoyment, and at times, I felt like I was at the helm of a much smaller sporty cat. Of the wind, we put the gennaker up and were soon hitting 10kn in 15kn of true wind. Sail handling was very simple, and It all made for a thoroughly enjoyable sail .

New Windelo 50 on test - Sam's verdict

The Windelo 50 was a mighty impressive boat for a first launch from a new company. The new deck molding and other refinements have merely embellished an already excellent product. The styling both on deck and below is impressive, and the more aggressive look is perhaps in keeping with the boat’s high performance, and the overall feel is slicker, more purposeful and more stylish. Ultimately, though, what truly sets this boat apart is what has always set it apart: it’s green credentials – and they remain as impressive as ever.

SALES MANAGER

Windelo is a new conception brand of innovative catamarans. Ecology is at the heart of the company with the ambition to significantly reduce the environmental impact of our boats. A range of 44 to 60 foot catamarans offering sailors the opportunity to sail with pleasure and safety on eco-friendly boats.

In full development, we are hiring a sales manager:

JOB AND MISSIONS: Managed by the director of the company, and in connection with our various services and partners, you are a key player in the launch of this new brand.

Real project manager: 1. You co-build the Windelo sales and services office, 2. You recruit, train, and drive progressively a team of passionate experts, 3. You develop and innovate in the strategy of selling Windelo boats in Europe, 4. You recruit and lead a global network of sales partners, 5. You co-build and animate the company’s service strategy: port mapping places; insurance and financing; training; owner’s manual etc.

YOUR PROFIL 1. Passionate about sailing, you practice regularly, 2. Your sense of service and customer leads you to satisfy your customers every day, 3. You are enthusiastic and motivated to work in a start-up, 4. You have 2 to 5 years’ experience in the sale of boats, 5. Bilingual French – English, you also speak a third language: German, Italian, or Spanish.

EVOLUTIVE JOB Director of sales

AVAILABILITY / PLACE OF WORK 1st Quarter 2019 / Occitanie Region, Canet en Roussillon FRANCE

TYPE OF CONTRACT AND REMUNERATION Permanent contract / fixed to be defined according to experience + variable.

If you are a passionate of sailing and this challenge to participate in the development of a company in full creation arouses your enthusiasm, welcome to send your application by e-mail to:  contact@windelo-catamaran.com

RESPONSABLE DES VENTES

Windelo consiste en la création d’une nouvelle marque de catamarans innovants. L’écologie est au coeur de l’entreprise avec pour ambition de réduire fortement l’impact environnemental de nos bateaux. Une gamme de catamarans de 44 à 60 pieds offrant aux marins la possibilité de naviguer avec plaisir et sécurité sur des bateaux éco responsables.

En plein développement, nous recrutons un(e) responsable des ventes

POSTE ET MISSIONS

Managé(e) par le directeur de l’entreprise, et en lien avec nos différents services et partenaires, vous êtes un acteur clefs du lancement de cette nouvelle marque. Véritable chef de projet :

1. Vous co-construisez le bureau des ventes et des services de Windelo, 2. Vous recrutez, formez, et animez progressivement une équipe d’experts passionnés, 3. Vous développez et innovez dans la stratégie de vente des bateaux Windelo en Europe, 4. Vous recrutez et animez un réseau mondial de partenaires de vente, 5. Vous co-construisez et animez la stratégie de service de l’entreprise : mapping des places de port ; assurance et financement ; formation ; entretien ; manuel du propriétaire etc.

VOTRE PROFIL 1. Passionné(e) de nautisme, vous naviguez régulièrement, 2. Votre sens du service et du client vous anime pour satisfaire vos clients au quotidien, 3. Vous êtes enthousiaste et motivé(e) à l’idée de travailler en équipe dans une « start-up », 4. Vous disposez de 2 à 5 ans d’expérience dans la vente de bateaux de plaisance, 5. Bilingue français – anglais, vous maitrisez également une troisième langue : allemand, italien, ou espagnol.

POSTE EVOLUTIF Directeur des ventes

DISPONIBILITÉ / LIEU DE TRAVAIL 1ier Trimestre 2019 / Région Occitanie, Canet en Roussillon FRANCE

TYPE DE CONTRAT ET REMUNERATION CDI Cadre / Fixe à définir selon expérience + variable.

Si vous êtes un(e) passionné(e) de l’univers du nautisme et que ce challenge de participer au développement d’une entreprise en pleine création suscite votre enthousiasme, merci d’adresser votre candidature par e-mail à : contact@windelo-catamaran.com

As part of the creation of new types of catamaran made in Occitanie, an audacious choice of ecological innovation has been selected in partnership with the Materials Center of « Mines d’Alès » (C2MA – IMT MINES ALES) (Gard, France). It’s a question of combining ecological performance in terms of minimizing the environmental footprint and structural resistance, and this, in a global approach of circular economy on all parts of the boat. To do this, and in connection with the IMT MINES ALES, Windelo has relied on the use of secondary raw materials, competitive  virgin petroleum-based materials, that fully comply with the specifications in terms of mechanical performance. This is a real first step to the development of a 2.0 fleet ships fully integrated into the challenges and ecological challenges of the 21st century.

Associated with an ecological approach of circular economy integrating a not insignificant part of competitive secondary raw materials from virgin materials, the architectural design and the resistance of materials on the new Windelo catamarans are mechanically tested in the Materials Center of « Mines d’Alès » (C2MA – IMT MINES ALES) (Gard, France) in connection with the architects and designers of the project. The design of the ship, and in particular the hulls and bows, go through a search for efficient structuring and arranging of materials composing it, combined with a mechanically optimized geometrical assembly. To this end, specific test developments, such as the study of distortion of the structure and of the panels constituating the hull of the ship, are studied by digital image correlation techniques coupled with standardized strength tests.

Founder of Catana

“The cruising program for this new boat raises the question of the antagonism between the search for performance under sail and the pleasure of navigation, and the development of pleasant living spaces. The originality of the answer is provided here in the arrangement of the cockpit bringing together the helm and maneuvers to the center of the boat and in the arrangement of living space that occupies the rear of the nacelle.

Just behind the mast the outer cockpit offers two helm stations protected from the wind and spray, a beautiful view of the sails and bows, and allows to have all the maneuvers on hand while limiting the needs to circulate on the bridge. Out of navigation, the cockpit can be more widely protected from the outside and open to the rear space.

Fully opened behind this cockpit, we have not developed two living spaces duplicating one inside the other but a single large space which is ajustable. We have focused our efforts on the geometry of the material and visual limits of this space and on the opening kinematics of the bays. Once opened, they “disappear” to transform the interior into an exterior. The generosity of these openings also allows to modulate the ventilation of this space by playing on a wide range of opening on its four sides

This work on the modularity and the disappearance of limits is found at the extreme rear of the nacelle, with an articulated platform to the davits transforming it into a floor when anchored, and in the rear cabins, whose wide turning porthole eliminates the angle between side plating and back side. The cabin space is therefore generous despite the relative narrowness of the hulls.

All these choices allow us to combine a contained hold of the nacelle, pledge control of the weight estimate, to a generous living space, with a central part given to navigation and maneuvering. The slenderness of the forward spikes, the significant free height under the platform, and the attention paid to the centering of the masses, complete the marine qualities expected for an offshore navigation program.

The other originality of the project brought by this new construction site is in the approach of “eco-design” on materials and construction. Strongly limiting the use of molds, the latter brings a greater margin of freedom in the variations and evolutions of the boats thus conceived. ”

Christophe Barreau et Frédéric Neuman

Architects and Naval Engineers

Who could know if it is the father or the son who is the most  passionate? It doesn’t matter. The important thing  is to write an innovative project within a family culture, for today and for generations to come. Hand over the guiding light, this is Olivier Kauffmann’s will. “At first I wanted to make my own boat, for me and my family; go on trip around the world living on a  efficient and pleasant catamaran. I dreamed of a new quality of space. Today, the dream has matured, and I want to share it with the great family of sailors. »

Windelo is the desire to expose us to something new, innovative, powerful, bigger than oneself. To seek innovations on materials, techniques of industrialization and uses to impulse a new economic reality. “We want to be part of this transformation related to the respect of our environment, it is for us, essential to work in this respect of men and nature. Men are at the heart of the project with the desire to recruit and form a passionate team, surrounded by experts recognized as the best in their field.

And the innovation doesn’t stop here, because the constructive process makes it possible to envisage fast evolutions from one boat to another while remaining well priced. An ambitious and respectful project ; Welcome to the Windelo adventure.

Dans le cadre de la confection de nouveaux types de catamaran made in Occitanie, un choix audacieux d’innovation écologique a été retenu en partenariat avec le Centre des Matériaux des Mines d’Alès (C2MA – IMT MINES ALES) (Gard). Il s’agit à la fois d’allier performance écologique en termes de minimisation de l’empreinte environnementale et résistance des structures, et ce, dans une démarche globale d’économie circulaire sur l’ensemble des parties du bateau. Pour ce faire, et en lien avec l’IMT MINES ALES, Windelo a misé sur l’utilisation de matières premières secondaires, compétitives des matériaux pétrosourcés vierges, et parfaitement conformes au cahier des charges sur le plan des performances mécaniques. C’est un réel premier pas vers l’élaboration d’une flotte de navires 2.0 s’intégrant complètement dans les enjeux et défis écologiques du XXIème siècle.

Associées à une démarche écologique d’économie circulaire intégrant une part non négligeable de matières premières secondaires concurrentielles des matières vierges, l’architecture de conception et la résistance des matériaux des nouveaux catamarans de Windelo sont éprouvées par des tests mécaniques réalisés au Centre des Matériaux des Mines d’Alès (C2MA – IMT MINES ALES) (Gard) en lien avec les architectes et designers du projet. La conception du navire, et en particulier les bordées et étraves, passe par une recherche de structuration performante de l’agencement des matériaux le composant, combinée à une géométrie d’assemblage optimisée sur le plan mécanique. Pour ce faire, des développements d’essais spécifiques, comme l’étude de la déformation de la structure des panneaux constituant la coque du navire, sont étudiés par des techniques de corrélation d’image numériques couplés à des essais de résistance mécanique normalisés.

La rencontre avec Olivier et Gautier a été une agréable surprise pour moi, dès l’exposé de leur projet, j’ai vu réunis tous les ingrédients d’une réussite, l’expérience de gestion d’entreprises mais avec une modestie rassurante, le souci de former une équipe des meilleurs experts (sourire) et une réelle écoute de leurs avis. Au fil des rencontres, les discussions ont ravivé mes souvenirs de la création puis du développement de Catana. Les mêmes motivations, la même recherche de perfection, la même audace teintée de modestie que nous avions au départ du projet. Windelo est centrée sur le produit ; une ligne de catamarans performants construits avec les techniques les plus modernes. Je n’en avais pas conscience à l’époque mais je crois que le succès d’un bon bateau vient de cette passion pour la mer avec la volonté de marier confort sécurité et performance. Je retrouve ici cette passion, et aujourd’hui ce qui a fini de me conquérir c’est le souci de préservation de la nature, tant dans les matériaux choisis que dans les méthodes de production.

Le programme de grande croisière auquel se destine ce nouveau bateau pose la question de l’antagonisme entre d’une part la recherche de performances sous voiles et du plaisir de navigation, et d’autre part l’aménagement d’espaces de vie agréables et généreux. L’originalité de la réponse apportée ici réside dans la disposition du cockpit rassemblant poste de barre et manœuvres au centre du bateau et dans le traitement de l’espace de vie qui occupe l’arrière de la nacelle. Juste en arrière du mât le cockpit extérieur offre deux postes de barre protégés du vent et des embruns, une belle vue sur les voiles et sur les étraves, et permet d’avoir l’ensemble des manœuvres à portée de main tout en limitant les besoins de circuler sur le pont. Hors navigation, le cockpit peut être plus largement protégé de l’extérieur et s’ouvrir sur l’espace arrière. De plein pied en arrière de ce cockpit, nous n’avons pas aménagé deux espaces de vie dupliqués l’un à l’intérieur et l’autre à l’extérieur mais un seul grand espace dont le degré d’ouverture est très largement modulable. Nous avons porté notre effort sur la géométrie des limites matérielles et visuelles de cet espace et sur les cinématiques d’ouverture des baies. Une fois ouvertes elles « disparaissent » pour transformer l’intérieur en extérieur. La générosité des ouvrants permet également de moduler la ventilation de cet espace en jouant sur une large gamme d’ouverture sur ses quatre côtés Ce travail sur la modularité et sur la disparition des limites se retrouve à l’extrême arrière de la nacelle, avec une plateforme articulée aux bossoirs se transformant en plancher au mouillage, et dans les cabines arrières dont le large hublot tournant fait « sauter » l’angle entre bordé latéral et face arrière. L’espace de cabine est donc généreux malgré la relative étroitesse des coques. L’ensemble de ces choix nous permet de conjuguer une emprise contenue de la nacelle, gage de maîtrise du devis de poids, à un espace à vivre généreux, avec une place centrale accordée à la navigation et aux manœuvres. L’élancement des pointes avant, l’importante hauteur libre sous nacelle, et l’attention portée au centrage des masses, complètent les qualités marines attendues pour un programme de navigation hauturière. L’autre originalité du projet apportée par ce nouveau chantier se trouve dans l’approche d’« éco-conception » portant sur les matériaux et le mode constructif. Limitant fortement le recours aux moules ce dernier apporte une plus grande marge de liberté dans les déclinaisons et évolutions des bateaux ainsi conçus.

Qui sait lequel du père ou du fils est le plus passionné ? Peu importe. L’important ici est d’écrire un projet innovant au sein d’une culture familiale, pour aujourd’hui et les générations à venir. Passer le flambeau, le relais ; c’est la volonté d’Olivier Kauffmann. « Au début je voulais me faire mon propre bateau, pour ma famille et moi ; partir faire un tour du monde sur un catamaran performant et plaisant à vivre. Je rêvais à une qualité d’espace inédite. Aujourd’hui, l’envie a mûrit, et je tiens à le partager avec la grande famille des marins ».

Windelo c’est l’envie de s’exposer à quelque chose de nouveau, d’innovant, de performant, de plus grand que soi. Aller chercher des innovations sur des matériaux, des techniques d’industrialisation, des usages et impulser une nouvelle réalité économique. « Nous voulons faire partie de cette transformation liée au respect de notre environnement, c’est pour nous indispensable d’œuvrer dans ce respect des hommes et de la nature. Les hommes sont au cœur du projet avec la volonté de recruter et former une équipe de passionnés, entourés d’experts reconnus comme les meilleurs dans leur domaine ».

Et l’innovation ne s’arrête pas là, car le process constructif permet d’envisager des évolutions rapides d’un bateau à un autre tout en restant bien placé en prix. Projet ambitieux et respectueux, bienvenu(e) dans l’aventure Windelo.