Between 1988 and 1998, Chantiers AMEL experienced a decade of strong innovation and growing international recognition in the world of bluewater cruising. This period was marked by the launch of iconic models and significant technological advancements.
- 1988: Launch of the Super Maramu, a 16-meter ketch designed for long-distance cruising. For Henri Amel, this yacht represented the pinnacle of his career. According to his own words, he poured into this project all the expertise he and his team had developed since founding the shipyard in the 1960s. The Super Maramu quickly became a benchmark among sailors seeking comfort, safety, and ease of handling for long voyages.
- 1989: Introduction of the Santorin, a 14-meter cruising yacht available as a ketch or sloop. It offered a more compact alternative while maintaining the comfort and robustness of its larger sibling, the Super Maramu.
- 1998: Evolution of the Super Maramu into the Super Maramu 2000, featuring both technical and aesthetic upgrades. This new version remained in production until 2006. In total, nearly 240 units of both the Super Maramu and Super Maramu 2000 were built over 17 years—an impressive feat in the world of 15+ meter cruising yachts.
The 1990s: AMEL’s Quiet Mastery
The 1990s were a decade of maturity for Chantiers AMEL, with production focused primarily on the Super Maramu and the Santorin. These models embodied the AMEL spirit: yachts designed for shorthanded sailing, offering a high level of comfort and safety. The “fully equipped” philosophy became even more established, with yachts delivered ready for long-distance cruising.
The Super Maramu 2000: A Dream Fulfilled
After the Santorin ended production in 1997, the shipyard entered a single-model phase, betting on the ongoing success of the Super Maramu. In 1998, it received a major update and became the Super Maramu 2000. More than a simple upgrade, it was the culmination of a vision—now enhanced with modern features, technical refinements, and a more polished look, all while staying true to the original model’s essence.
And in 2000, international recognition followed: the Super Maramu 2000 was awarded Best Boat of the Year by Cruising World magazine. A crowning achievement? Absolutely—but above all, it was the confirmation of a course charted long ago, one guided by rigor, passion, and a deep love for the sea.
