Lagoon’s Neo line of refurbished catamarans at Cannes

Lagoon has introduced the Neo line, a range of renovated catamarans, which will undergo refitting at the Groupe Beneteau shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, aimed at addressing boats’ end of life issues. The first model to be refurbished under this programme is a Lagoon 620, originally built in 2012.

The Lagoon Neo project will be officially introduced at the Lagoon press conference during the 2024 Cannes Yachting Festival on 10 September 2024. The refurbished Lagoon 620, Firefly, will be on display at the Occasions du Multicoque et du Refit Boat Show in Canet-en-Roussillon, France, from 11-13 October.

As part of its ‘Sailing for Change’ initiative, Lagoon is expanding its operations by establishing a dedicated refitting activity. The firm says the shipyard in Monfalcone was selected for its expertise in building large yachts and its strategic location on the Mediterranean. The Lagoon 620, repurchased by Lagoon in February 2024 after 12 years of service, will serve as the pilot project for this initiative.

Lagoon says its Neo programme applies the same quality standards as used in the construction of new catamarans. Each boat will undergo an expert evaluation to determine the necessary work, with updates made to materials and software to meet current standards. Over 70 per cent of uninstalled equipment will be reused, and all boats will follow a rigorous testing process similar to that of new models.

Lagoon offers customers three refitting packages. The Standard Pack includes a full structural audit, updated electrical equipment, Seanapps integration, interior refresh, and new or refurbished key equipment. The Silent Pack adds lithium batteries and solar panels, while the Premium Pack includes all features of the Silent Pack with the addition of a hull repaint. The refit process is expected to take approximately four to six months for each catamaran.

The refurbished catamarans will come with a two-year manufacturer’s warranty, supported by Lagoon’s global dealer network, which includes over 230 service locations worldwide. The Neo programme is being established as a separate entity within Groupe Beneteau.

Lagoon’s ‘Sailing for Change’ strategy focuses on less damaging cruising practices. This includes certification of production facilities, the use of bio-sourced and recycled materials, alternative propulsion systems, and partnerships with organisations focused on marine ecosystem preservation.