In Conversation: Sunreef x IYC
The partnership between IYC and Sunreef Yachts, with IYC as the exclusive commercial agent in the UK, unites two major players in the superyacht industry. An alliance rooted in a shared vision where sustainability and luxury thrive and one that allows Sunreef to expand its global presence and reinforces IYC’s position in the UK market.
Founded in 2002 by Francis Lapp in Gdansk, Poland, Sunreef is a leader in luxury catamaran design, known for its exceptional craftsmanship and pioneering eco-conscious models. The latest ULTIMA range pushes design boundaries, blending monohull and multihull advantages with energy-efficient propulsion. Sunreef consistently sets new standards for environmentally conscious yachting without compromising comfort or style.
To explore the driving forces behind this collaboration, the IYC UK team - Richard Gray, Head of Sales, and Jamie Swaine, IYC and Sunreef UK Sales Executive, sat down with the father-son duo at the helm of Sunreef: Francis Lapp, President and Founder, and Nicolas Lapp, CTO, and Vice President. The conversation delves deeper into Sunreef's commitment and passion for innovation and sustainability.
How is Sunreef approaching sustainability in yacht design, construction, and operation?
Francis Lapp (FL): We continually explore sustainable materials and technologies. We use flax fiber and PET foam in construction, and our R&D lab is researching recyclable plant composites. We are also introducing quality alternatives to teak and further developing our sustainable interior furnishings. Our yachts also benefit from solar power, use clean electric propulsion, and incorporate energy-efficient air conditioning systems. These are just a few examples, and the list of sustainable practices we employ can evolve depending on the client.
Nicolas Lapp (NL): We are constantly trying to minimize our carbon footprint, using materials with a negative CO2 footprint and better processes. For example, our Sunreef 80s are built with 600,000 recycled plastic bottles. It's vital to incorporate sustainable practices in every stage of the boat's lifecycle. For us, it all starts with an energy-efficient design and is followed by a responsible build process.
What inspired your commitment to sustainability?
FL: My career began in electrical installations, so I've always found energy distribution fascinating. From day one at Sunreef, we've focussed on finding smart solutions and optimizing processes. It's an ongoing journey, especially in the realm of superyachts.
NL: Being part of something purposeful and innovative is incredibly motivating and something I am proud of. We're proving we can change the yachting world by developing new technologies. Our approach isn't just about being energy-efficient; it is about leading the industry toward sustainability.
Can you explain how Sunreef is leading the industry in this sustainable direction?
NL: We invest heavily in research and development, allowing us to offer a comprehensive package of eco-friendly solutions. From solar technology, electric engines, and batteries to AC, water management, and sustainable decors, we're optimizing every aspect of yachting for sustainability. We are building two 43-metre electric sailing superyachts with composite-integrated solar panels, demonstrating that luxury can harmonize with the environment.
What current trends are influencing Sunreef Yachts' strategic decisions and product development?
FL: We don't follow trends; we create them. Over twenty years ago, we launched the world's first luxury catamaran and have never stopped innovating. This pioneering spirit keeps us ahead of the game. Today, there is a massive increase in interest in sustainable luxury multihulls - a trend that started long ago at Sunreef's drawing board. Now, it is one of the strongest trends in the industry, and even big monohull manufacturers are trying their hand at building them.
What are the most effective strategies that have driven Sunreefs' growth?
FL: Our 'time to market' capacity is an essential strategy. We introduce new solutions efficiently because we focus on in-house work rather than relying on subcontractors. This independence gives us a significant advantage in timing, ensuring our designs reach the market before they become obsolete. It's not enough to have a good product vision; you need to turn that vision into reality and introduce it to the market at the right time.
What is driving Sunreef's focus on larger yachts?
FL: There's a powerful multihull trend in the superyacht sector. Clients are becoming more aware of environmental footprints and seeking energy-efficient alternatives. With yachts like the Sunreef 43M Eco, we're proving that the superyachts can be more sustainable, using sails, electric engines, solar panels, and sustainable materials. We are building bigger yachts because we know we can positively change the sector.
What are some of the unique design and engineering challenges that come with building larger yachts, and how is Sunreef Yachts addressing these challenges?
FL: The main challenge is to meet our customers’ expectations while remaining in line with the regulations. All these challenges are tackled by a dedicated superyachts team that we created. It’s exciting as we are creating the superyachts of the future. Superyachts do not have a great reputation in terms of sustainability, our challenge is all about changing this image and proving that superyachts can be energy efficient.
How does Sunreef balance the desire for larger yachts with sustainability?
NL: Catamarans are inherently energy-efficient, making them the ideal sustainable boat. With superyachts, we apply the same philosophy as our smaller range, ensuring a 360-degree approach to sustainability. Our R&D is crucial in making everything more efficient, from sails to engines and batteries.
Customization is a key aspect of luxury yachts. Can you share some examples of unique customizations you have done for clients?
FL: There are many examples, but if I were to point out a few, I would start with the folding mast that we designed for one of our customers. This customer ordered a sailing superyacht with a double deck superstructure. There was one special condition to the order the yacht had to have a folding mast in order to pass under a couple of bridges. The idea was to lower the air draft from 38.5m to 24m, and for this we needed our carbon mast to fold forward at 90 degrees. Nobody has ever carried out such a mast on an 80ft plus yacht. I asked around a lot, but in the end, we designed and built everything by ourselves.
What are some of the biggest challenges Sunreef faces?
FL: Our main challenge is to meet our customers' expectations while complying with regulations. A dedicated Sunreef superyacht team tackles all these challenges. It's exciting because we are creating the superyachts of the future. Superyachts have a poor reputation in terms of sustainability, and our challenge is all about changing this and proving that they can be energy-efficient.
NL: With increasing demand, the challenge is developing the right infrastructure to satisfy that demand. We have developed a state-of-the-art shipyard in Gdansk and are doing the same in Ras Al Khaimah in the Emirates. We aim for the same autonomy and in-house capacity as Gdansk, meaning we have plenty of work ahead.
What are Sunreef's growth plans and vision for the future?
FL: Superyachts have long been part of our product portfolio. We entered this segment in 2010 with 114-foot and 102-foot sailing catamarans. Today, the market is more open to welcoming catamaran superyachts, and we're seeing more Sunreef owners upgrading to bigger models. While we expect to see more superyacht Sunreefs, our range will remain diverse to cater to various customer needs. The time is right, and the market is ready.
This article was featured in the Fall/Winter 2024/25 Issue of Horizons Magazine. Browse the full issue here.