Groupe Beneteau became the majority shareholder in the Slovenian company Seascape

Groupe Beneteau became the majority shareholder with a 60% stake in the Slovenian company Seascape d.o.o., specialized in designing, building and marketing performance sailing yachts. The yard’s founders, Andraž Mihelin and Kristian Hajnšek, will continue their adventure alongside the Group and retain 40% of the capital. Seascape d.o.o. will be included in the Group’s scope from its acquisition date.

Founded in 2008 by two Mini Transat Class sailors, Seascape has in just 10 years become a leader in the transportable performance cruiser segment. With their innovative design and advanced ergonomics, these affordable performance sailing yachts combine great sensations and speed with easy use and simple transportation. They offer multifunctional and adaptable designs, covering a range of sailing programs, from regattas to family trips and raid events.

Seascape currently offers four models, from 4.3 to 8m, designed by renowned architect Sam Manuard. The yard generated revenues of €4.2 million in 2017. This acquisition is in line with the strategy to ramp up the product range with Groupe Beneteau's Transform to Perform strategic plan. It will further strengthen the Group’s global leadership in the liveaboard monohull sailing segment by including performance cruisers.

“Our acquisition of a stake in Seascape will enable us to offer a selection of small sailing yachts designed for both novice sailors and enthusiasts, often younger and first-time buyers”, explains Hervé Gastinel, Groupe Beneteau CEO.

“Our commitment to our Seascape owners and community remains the same: we will continue to develop sailing boats, events and services in line with the spirit that has been central to our brand’s success, while benefiting from Groupe Beneteau’s global scale and expertise”, adds Andraž Mihelin, Seascape CEO.