A naval architect who has collaborated with a handful of yacht builders over the past 30 years has set up his own shipyard, focusing on megayacht tenders.
Philippe Cabon is the principal of France-based Tender Shipyard, specializing in the design and construction of tenders from 3.4 meters to 12.5 meters (11 to 41 feet) LOA. While Cabon previously designed yachts like CNB’s Virgo, a 93-foot all-aluminum sailing yacht, plus catamarans like the MCM 50 and 60, he also has experience designing tenders. He built two open-style tenders for two different Benettis, for example, plus the tender range for Tresco Shipyard (now owned by Alliaura Marine).
So why set up his own shop? According to Cabon, in September the captain of Berkut, a 53-meter (174-foot) Baglietto, asked him to design and build a tender. Cabon says he then decided a shipyard focusing on this niche would be a good idea.
At 7.2 meters (about 24 feet), the tender to Berkut, seen at top, is all-carbon-fiber construction, using prepreg techniques for the hull and resin infusion for the deck. It further features a removable hardtop, a swim ladder, removable cushions, and room for 12. Drawing just half a meter (one and a half feet), the tender will be capable of getting into pretty skinny waters. A 260-hp Yanmar outboard should permit a 35-knot top end.
Delivery is expected at the end of January. In the meantime, Cabon is in talks with other owners and captains for limousine tenders capable of carrying upwards of 10 guests and two crewmembers as well as a “cabriolet tender,” seen above, for six guests and two crew. Other designs are available, too, such as ones with removable seats and dodgers, even underwater lights.
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