The Caribbean had very few shipyard facilities until sailing yacht owner Jean Louis de Lucy established Martinique-based shipyard Carenantilles over 30 years ago. After years of growth and development, the family-run yard spans six acres of fully coated land and has become a go-to choice for luxury motor and sailing yachts in the region, handling over 1,000 boats annually for maintenance and refit work.
Significant investments, including the addition of 80-ton and 440-ton travel lifts, have enabled the shipyard to accommodate larger vessels. As a result, the yard has seen a steady increase in superyachts using its services over the years and is now capable of handling yachts up to 50 meters in length.
One of the shipyard's most notable recent projects was the extensive refit of the 49.5-meter Mondomarine M/Y Oceanos. The work included hull cleaning, antifouling, a fresh coat of Awlgrip paint and a thorough safety inspection. But the yard's true capabilities were showcased when it lifted the 400-ton yacht, setting a new record for its 440-ton travel lift, which can accommodate vessels with a beam of up to 14 meters and with a maximum draught of five meters. Additional upgrades to Oceanos included new lighting and air-conditioning systems.
In addition to its impressive lifting capacity, Carenantilles features a 1,600-foot deep-water work dock that can accommodate two superyachts alongside approximately 70 smaller vessels. The French West Indies-based yard is fully equipped with recovery and water treatment systems, 125A electrical and water distribution terminals, complete nighttime lighting and 24/7 security surveillance.
The scope of work at Carenantilles is extensive, handling everything from quick repairs to major refit projects and everything in between. The yard features 14 fully equipped workshops covering all trades, including electricity, mechanics, fiberglass, carbon, carpentry, sailmaking, saddlery, painting, rigging, electronics, surveying and propeller repair. Additional in-house services include welding, sandblasting, hydroblasting, epoxy treatments and plexiglass fabrication, all fully compliant with European environmental standards. The yard also has a fully stocked chandlery store, ensuring all maintenance and refit needs are met efficiently on site, and Carenantilles enhances the experience with project management and crew concierge services, catering to any needs yacht crews may have during their stay.
The stay is further enhanced for both owners and crew by the beautiful and safe surrounding area. The shipyard is well-protected from the sea and tides, sheltered by four acres of mangroves. Ideally situated in the picturesque bay of Cul de Sac du Marin, a natural hurricane hole, it is next to the Marina du Marin and just a short distance from the city of Le Marin.
The shipyard has built a strong reputation through word of mouth, helping to solidify Martinique’s place on the global refit map. Clients regularly commend Carenantilles for its expertise and professionalism, with Captain Jared Burzler of 45.7-meter Pipe Dreams praising the staff as “knowledgeable, courteous, on-time and reliable.”
For more information about yacht refit services at Carenantilles in Martinique, get in touch with the shipyard today.
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