Fountaine Pajot

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Overview

Fountaine Pajot is a French manufacturer of sailing catamarans and motor yachts, specializing in models for private leisure, cruising, and chartering. It operates production sites in France and markets products in 80 countries, with a focus on seaworthy designs and plans for green energy cruise ships.¹²³

History

Founded in 1976 by Jean-François Fountaine and Yves Pajot in Aigrefeuille-d'Aunis, France, with later involvement from Daniel Givon and Rémi Tristan. Began producing public transport catamarans in 1983 and has since delivered over 4,000 sailing catamarans and motor yachts. Expanded to multiple production sites and acquired Dufour brand.¹²

Product Lines

Product Line	Positioning	Price Range
Core Sailing Catamarans (40-50 feet)	Mid-size cruising catamarans	$700,000 - $1,500,000
Flagship Sailing Catamarans (51-80 feet)	Large luxury catamaran yachts	$1,800,000 - $6,000,000
Motor Yachts	Power catamarans for leisure	$800,000 - $3,000,000

Manufacturing

Products are manufactured in four sites in France: Aigrefeuille-d'Aunis for core sailing catamarans (40-50 feet), La Rochelle for flagship catamarans (51-80 feet) with direct slipway access, Gujan-Mestras for motor yachts, and Perigny for Dufour. Construction uses resin infusion for lighter weight and environmental compliance. All production is in-house.²³⁴

Notable Products

Samarana 46 - Mid-size sailing catamaran for cruising.
Allegra 67 - Flagship sailing catamaran yacht over 50 feet.
MY6 Motor Yacht - Power catamaran for leisure and chartering.
Tayana 47 - Early public transport catamaran model from 1983.

Reputation

Enthusiasts and professionals recognize Fountaine Pajot for reliable seaworthiness and innovative construction like resin infusion. It holds a strong position as a leading French catamaran builder with global distribution. Some note higher pricing compared to mass-market competitors.¹²

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