Sunreef Yachts: THE RAK CONNECTION

Francis, what made you branch out from Poland and build a new Sunreef shipyard in Ras Al Khaimah?

FL: If we want to respond to the growing demand, we must develop our industrial strength. We now have two shipyards in Gdansk, Poland and a new facility in the emirates. We can keep moving forward, continue delivering the world’s best luxury multihulls and profit from the strategic positioning of the R.A.K facility.

What are the advantages of building Sunreefs in RAK?

FL: The simplicity in developing the infrastructure is one of the crucial advantages. Compared to Europe, the build permits are a lot less time consuming, so you can grow your business faster. We also gain an easier access to the Middle Eastern, Australian, and Asian market. We have an enthusiastic crew and the room to grow at a dynamic pace. 

What challenges did you face during the shipyard build?

FL: The biggest challenges come from your own fears and doubts. When you don’t know the area too well, you experience a bit of apprehension. There was a bit of fear, but it quickly disappeared when we realised how uncomplicated it was to obtain all administrative permits to build. The authorities let us choose the most convenient location and we were amazed how quick and natural the whole process was.

How has the emirate supported Sunreef?

FL: We met the local authorities who were very supportive. The development of the facility was as smooth and professional as it can be. This is the perfect environment to evolve industrially, and the supportive approach of the emirate plays an important role.

Which Sunreef catamarans will you build there, and why?

FL: Production has already started for the ULTIMA range. We start with the smaller models and will gradually introduce more voluminous ones.

What is your relationship with the UAE?

FL: I call it home now, as I have been living in Dubai for quite some time. I feel that the UAE is a land of opportunities. There is a real passion for developing futuristic technologies and a dynamic and unique vision of the future. This is why I not only decided to move here, but also to develop my business here.

Why is Sunreef Yachts investing in green boating?

FL: Investing is a keyword here. We are not only investing our efforts and time. We are investing our resources. The reason remains always the same. We know that there is a lot to do and someone has to lead the way.

Not long ago I joined Mike Horn on his expedition to Greenland. The changes in this area of the world illustrate how palpable climate issues can be. We understand how pressing the situation is and we understand our responsibilities as boat builders.

Many shipyards are saying what they will do in the future to make yachting cleaner. Our business is making things happen today.

What can we expect from Sunreef at the Dubai International Boat Show?

FL: A showcase of two electric yachts: the Sunreef 80 Eco and 80 Sunreef Power Eco. I believe those two yachts have a positive message to deliver and I know the local audience will respond with curiosity and enthusiasm.

What is your vision of the industry’s future?

FL: I think about the future almost every day. I try to imagine scenarios, environmental issues, expectations, trends, new needs emerging.

The industry will keep progressing towards cleaner technologies but the speed of these changes will depend on our own initiative as industry players. Shipyards must do everything to turn words into actions.