French motor yacht brand Rhéa Marine appoints UK distributor

French motorboat builder Rhéa Marine has appointed Universal Yachting as its UK distributor. The partnership will see the Rhéa 23 Origine make its UK debut at the Swanwick Yachting Showcase, running from 19–27 September at Swanwick Marina near Southampton.

Based on the River Hamble for more than 18 years, Universal Yachting is already well established as the UK distributor for Dufour Yachts. The deal with Rhéa marks a significant expansion into the motor yacht market for the firm, which will support and distribute the French motorboat range from its Hampshire base.

Universal Yachting will represent the complete Rhéa Marine range in the UK, encompassing Open, outboard HB, Timonier and Trawler models.

Established in La Rochelle in 1995, Rhéa Marine has built an enviable reputation for producing distinctive, highly capable motor boats that combine traditional Atlantic-inspired styling with modern hull design, construction and engineering.

Originally inspired by the working fishing and oyster boats of France’s Atlantic coast, Rhéa boats are sport flared bows and purposeful hull forms. Today, the range extends from versatile open day boats through to enclosed wheelhouse models and cruising motor yachts.

Chris Warwick, managing director of Universal Yachting, says: “We have been looking for some time for the right motor boat brand to complement our existing business, and Rhéa immediately stood out to us.

“There is a real authenticity to the boats. They have a very distinctive style, but beneath that traditional appearance they are thoroughly modern boats designed to be used and enjoyed at sea. The combination of build quality, seakeeping, practicality and understated French design makes them particularly well suited to the UK market.

“Rhéa also remains a relatively small and specialist boatbuilder, which was important to us. There is a personal approach to the way the boats are built and supported that fits very well with the way we operate Universal Yachting.”

UK debut for Rhéa 23 Origine

The first boat to arrive in the UK under the new partnership is the Rhéa 23 Origine, which will make its UK premiere at the inaugural Swanwick Yachting Showcase.

Based on Rhéa’s 6.5-metre hull, the 23 Origine is a classic open day boat. Measuring 6.9m overall, including its bathing platform, the model has a 2.5m beam, 1,200kg displacement and combines a practical, easily managed layout with traditional detailing and a modern GRP hull designed by Joubert-Nivelt.

Powered by an outboard of up to 200hp, the boat has a claimed top speed around 40 knots.

“The 23 Origine is a great introduction to Rhéa,” continues Warwick. “It is small enough to be easy to own and use, but it still has all the character that makes the brand different. We collected our first boat directly from the factory in La Rochelle this summer and we’re really looking forward to giving UK customers their first opportunity to step aboard at Swanwick.”

Universal Yachting expansion

The appointment coincides with Universal Yachting’s recent move to larger premises at Swanwick Marina, where the company now has offices, an in-water display area and dedicated technical and aftersales facilities.

Alongside new boat sales, Universal Yachting will provide UK Rhéa owners with commissioning, servicing, technical support, maintenance and ongoing owner assistance through its Swanwick operation and Universal Yacht Services division.

Private appointments and sea trials can be arranged directly with Universal Yachting.

To view the latest yacht lineup and to book appointments directly with participating exhibitors, visit the Swanwick Yachting Showcase website.