Nautitech 48 Open
Guide : Comprendre la construction d'un catamaran Nautitech

An immersion into the heart of the construction of an exceptional catamaran

Take a look behind the scenes at the construction of a Nautitech catamaran and discover a unique craftsmanship, 100% made in France. Combining innovation and precision, every stage of the build is designed to deliver boats that blend performance, quality and comfort at sea

The composites workshop : where it all begins

The construction of a Nautitech catamaran begins in the composite workshop. Here, the moulds for the hulls, decks and roofs are permanently fixed in place and perfectly aligned to ensure a smooth and controlled production process.

Once the parts have been manufactured in the moulds, our specialist teams carry out the lamination of the structures, a key stage in ensuring the catamaran’s rigidity. Once shaped by their structure, the various parts are moved by overhead cranes to the trimming workshop and then to the assembly line, where they continue to be transformed.

Preparation for infusion: precision for optimal performance

Before any infusion, each mould undergoes a rigorous preparation process: cleaning, waxing and the application of a release gelcoat. This involves applying a single coat of gelcoat, which is then blown off to unclog the pores. This step removes impurities and optimises the adhesion of the materials. Stripping gelcoat used only for new moulds.

 

Construction then relies on the meticulous assembly of high-performance materials:

• Glass and carbon fibres

• Divinycell PVC foam

• Polyester and vinyl ester resin

 

At the same time, a dedicated area prepares the fabric kits in advance. Thanks to a combination of manual (5%) and automated (95%) cutting, each component is precisely identified and numbered, enabling operators to know exactly where to place the fabrics.

The result: time savings, optimised installation and maximum precision during assembly.

Each layer is laid with precision by experienced operators, following a strict protocol. Vacuum application then allows the infusion process to begin: the resin is injected in a controlled manner by a numerically controlled machine to ensure uniformity, strength and weight control.

The infusion of a single-piece mould takes on average 1 hour, depending on temperature and seasonal conditions.

This process ensures perfectly watertight composite parts with mechanical properties optimised for sailing.

Trimming and finishing : a focus on detail

Once set, the pieces are carefully removed from the mould.

Assembly : bringing the catamaran to life

All the components are then sent to the assembly workshop, where the process is organised around several key stages.

Deck preparation

Work on the decks and hulls proceeds in parallel. The teams fit the deck fittings, windows and fastenings in preparation for the next stages.

 

Manufacture of interior modules

The manufacture of the modules begins with the receipt of furniture components that have been pre-cut by our supplier, which are then assembled with precision by our teams.

The furniture is then fitted into the boat as complete modules, ready for installation.

Each space includes :

• Bathrooms

• Plumbing systems

• Electrical installations

Atelier
Atelier

Production line : precision engineering

The multi-product line organises the manufacturing process into several stages:

1. Structure and reinforcements

Over a period of around four days, the teams complete the structural framework: floor timbers, deck, and bottom planking.

2. Systems and joinery

The technical systems (plumbing, electrical, mechanical) are installed alongside the joinery. Each module is designed to the nearest centimetre to fit the catamaran’s shape perfectly. A volumetric study is carried out to maximise living space on board.

3. Deckwork and fittings

Around 14 days after entering the production line, operators finalise the installation of the furniture, particularly in the saloon. They then proceed to integrate the electronic equipment and appliances, before completing the interior finishes with the fitting of the clip-on panelling.

The engine is installed prior to the deckwork, completing this key stage of the assembly process.

Spotlight on the Nautitech 48 Open : dedicated production

The Nautitech 48 Open benefits from a dedicated mini-production line with two workstations :

• One for the foredeck

• One for the aft deck

 

This system allows for more flexible production and ensures particular attention to detail and quality, given the size of the model.

Final stage : finishing touches and launch

Once it has left the production line, each catamaran undergoes a phase of meticulous finishing before being launched.

Construction is completed with the launch, which takes place in the port of Rochefort; this is a key stage during which Nautitech carries out final checks in real-world conditions to ensure the boat is ready to sail.

This moment allows us to validate the catamaran’s performance and ensure it fully meets the requirements for reliability, comfort and performance before setting sail.

Optimised working conditions and organisation

Optimised working conditions and organisation

At Nautitech, excellence is also about the people. Teams work in a flat structure directly on the parts, improving precision and comfort.

The shipyard operates in three shifts (3x8) to ensure continuous production :

• 6am – 1pm

• 1pm – 8pm

• Specialised night shift

 

This organisation guarantees consistent quality at every stage of the process.