Chapter 11: The shipyard’s metamorphosis accelerates

Chapter 11: The shipyard’s metamorphosis accelerates

The landscape of the AMEL Shipyards is undergoing a profound transformation. As the PHARE project enters a major operational phase, production activity is in full swing—a testament to the remarkable agility of the teams in maintaining the excellence of the yacht construction.

A precise transformation timeline

The deconstruction of Building 2 marks a key milestone in this renewal. Currently, teams are focused on roof removal and asbestos abatement, a meticulous operation lasting approximately two weeks. The upcoming schedule is as follows:

  • Late March: Deconstruction of walls and structural elements.
  • Mid-May: Installation of new corner pillars.
  • June: Installation of the framework and cladding.
  • November: Pouring of the concrete slab, with delivery scheduled for late February 2027.

Reorganizing production

While the future takes shape, the manufacturing of hulls, decks, and polyester composite parts continues unabated, strategically divided between two facilities:

  • Building 1: Approximately one-third of its surface area is dedicated to hull molding, the AMEL 60 deck molding, as well as gelcoating and trimming of polyester parts. Ventilation systems have been adapted to ensure an optimal working environment.
  • Building 3: A cornerstone of this transition, this historic 1968 building has seen a third of its space repurposed. It now houses the production of the AMEL 50 deck and smaller components (hatches, shower stalls, cockpit hardtops). To streamline workflows, a doorway has been enlarged and dust extraction systems reinforced.

 

A unified assembly hub and a brand-New Joinery

The assembly workshop is taking on a new dimension within Building 1. Thanks to the expansion of the mezzanine, nearly all assembly for the AMEL 50 and 60 is now centralized in a single space, optimizing the work of electricians, mechanics, joiners, and deck hardware specialists. A fourth AMEL 50 assembly zone will join this line as soon as the future composite workshop is completed.

Simultaneously, the joinery department has benefited from a fully renovated space since September, occupying one-third of Building 1. Between CNC cutting, varnishing, cabinet making, and vacuum infusion, the twelve joiners and varnishers now work with high-performance tools in a soundproofed environment, equipped with a heat recovery system for improved energy efficiency.

Logistics: the heartbeat of the workflow

Despite the ongoing construction, the logistics team maintains an intense pace. Still based in Building 4 for main storage, they also operate within Building 1 for fiberglass fabrics and resins (stored in a secured “laboratory”). From receiving and picking to line-side delivery, every step is scrutinized to ensure production craftsmen have everything they need at the right time.

Still housing an AMEL 50 assembly pit, a hardtop mounting area, the upholstery department, and the electrical/electronics hubs, Building 3 will remain active until the entire production line can move into its final quarters in Buildings 1 and 2.