The COVID-19 pandemic put a stop to many of the world’s most popular leisure activities, boating and yachting included. Several of 2020’s most prominent boating events, like the Venice Boat Show, Monaco Grand Prix, and World Superyacht Awards, have either been cancelled or postponed. In addition, boat manufacturing endeavors took a pause in the shipyards of almost all boatbuilding companies. These manufacturers have had to take the time to step back, rethink their operations, and incorporate better safety measures into their processes.
One such company that has since made headway is catamaran manufacturer Lagoon, which is under the Bénéteau family of brands. Those who’ve expressed interest in Lagoon catamarans in the Philippines, even before the onset of the pandemic, now have some good news from the company. As of this writing, the company’s Bordeaux and Vendée boatyards in France, where Lagoon catamarans are made, have resumed production and delivery.
Lagoon’s Commitment to Its Craftsmen and Its Customers
In the early months of the COVID-19 crisis, both production and delivery activities of Lagoon catamarans were reduced. The company’s management used this time to recalibrate their business strategies for heightened responsiveness against the spread of the virus.
Then, there came an announcement that the two Lagoon boatyards in Bordeaux and Vendee had resumed their activities at a gradual pace. This first announcement came from Construction Navale Bordeaux CEO, Yann Masselot, in April of 2020. In a video message released to the public, Masselot confirmed that Lagoon’s commissioning teams and modeling teams were back at work. He declared that the priority was “to finish all boats already in process and outside the factory,” readying them for launch.
Masselot also emphasized the commitment of the whole Bénéteau Group to implement “a very high level of health and safety processes for our workers.” Craftsmen who work onsite are required to wear face masks and gloves and undergo temperature checks to monitor the status of their health.
Photos released on Lagoon’s website in May 2020 showed employees abiding by the new safety standards. The announcement also included the following updates:
- Lagoon’s design team has continued to be hard at work while following the company’s safety precautions.
- Sea trials of Lagoon catamarans have resumed.
- Delivery arrangements to Lagoon customers are being facilitated.
- Lagoon catamarans are progressively leaving the boatyards.
In all of these shipyard activities, Lagoon continues to be accessible through email and social media. This in accordance with Masselot’s statement that “everything is going as per schedule,” and that Lagoon will honor its outstanding commitments to global customers.
What Filipino Boatmen Can Expect from Lagoon
Europa Yachts, the Philippines’ exclusive distributor of Lagoon catamarans, has welcomed the news about the resumption of activities in Lagoon’s Bordeaux and Vendée boatyards.
“We’re happy to convey updates regarding the reopening of Lagoon boatyards to our Filipino customers,” said Richard Sarinas, Europa Yachts’ Director of Marketing and Business Development. “To both first-time buyers and current owners of Lagoon catamarans, this is a welcome reassurance. It proves that Lagoon is serious about all its existing commitments, including their commitment to their people’s safety and to their customers’ well-being..
“Yes, it may be a while until Filipino boating enthusiasts can head out to sea again,” Sarinas added. However, they can always look forward to the same boating experience anchored in Lagoon’s ability to create vessels of exemplary quality and craftsmanship.”
Lagoon, under the Bénéteau Group, is the largest multihull builder in the world. Its premier catamaran boats offer customers a modern sailing experience that emphasizes space, comfort, seaworthiness and personal freedom. The family-friendly catamaran is a joy to own and suits the temperament and community-orientedness of Filipino customers. Call Europa Yachts at (+632) 7255-7116 or send an email to info@europayachts.net to learn more.
