Philippe Jeantot, (twice world champion in single-handed sailing and founder of the famous Vendee Globe round-the-world race), designed the original cruising catamaran for his family to live aboard during their calls : comfort, strength and security were the basic criteria.
In 1985, he founded Jeantot Marine and exhibited his first vessel in Paris, more for personal pride than to start a life in marine construction, however the many orders he received encouraged him to set out on this next great adventure!
Philippe Jeantot brought all his round-the-world navigation experience to the Privilege brand, creating a superb design in terms of comfort, security and cruising pleasure !
In 1989, the shipyard was the leading builder of cruising catamarans, dominating the American market, and became a benchmark for the profession. Recognition came in the form of:
Le Trophée International de la Qualité in 1992,
The Privilege 45 and 42 were chosen as ‘Boat of the Year’ in the USA in 1995 and 1996
In 1996, under the aegis of Alliaura, the brand grew and confirmed its position at the top of its class in large catamarans over 15m ; over 60 vessels ranging from 18-23m were delivered around the world, with the well-known PRIVILEGE 745 being the flagship of the fleet.
2012 sees a new chapter being written in the Privilege story, where passion, quality and experience are the watch-words. On the historic site at Les Sables d’Olonne, PRIVILEGE MARINE has gathered a highly qualified team, many with more than 20 years seniority… These men and women form a truly enthusiastic and committed team, led by Gilles Wagner.