Marc Lombard

Optimizing high-power hulls with a multidisciplinary approach

Founded in the 1980s by Marc Lombard in La Rochelle, Marc Lombard Design Group established itself as a major player in naval architecture, both in production cruising yachts and high-level offshore racing. Its signature lies in a constant pursuit of increasing hull power, particularly through early adoption of hard chine designs and widening of midship sections toward the stern. The firm distinguishes itself with dual expertise: designing competition prototypes (Class40, IMOCA, Mini 6.50) and engineering for large production builders (Bénéteau, Jeanneau, Neel Trimarans).

System integration

In Lombard’s methodology, system integration is handled concurrently with structural design. The goal is to minimize the impact of installations on the weight budget while ensuring optimal technical accessibility. Electrical and electronic networks are modeled from the 3D design phase to ensure weight distribution compatible with target speed polars.

Iconic projects

The firm has developed vessels that have marked technological turning points in their respective categories:

• Figaro Bénéteau 2: Iconic one-design for solo offshore racing for 15 years, recognized for its neutral helm and structural robustness.
• The Lift 40 series (V1, V2, V3): In Class40, the Lift 40 (from which hull #150 Jeanne) emerged, marked the arrival of high-volume bows and won the 2018 Route du Rhum.
• NEEL trimarans: Major innovation in cruising with the concept of a walk-through, habitable trimaran, combining form stability and unprecedented living space.
• IMOCA Pingouin: Lombard’s 1998 design that demonstrated remarkable longevity on the circuit, illustrating the reliability of structures from the firm.
• Akilaria RC (1 to 3): Class40 series that significantly contributed to the professionalization of the class through their architectural versatility.

Innovation

Current research at Marc Lombard Design Group focuses on hydrodynamic efficiency and material durability:

1. Optimizing "Scow" hulls: Refining water entry on voluminous hulls to reduce drag in light winds while maintaining downwind power.
2. Eco-responsible architecture: Studies on integrating flax fibers and bio-based resins for production vessels, aiming to reduce embodied energy in construction.
3. Lifting appendages: Development of T-rudders and lifting foils to stabilize trim on latest-generation monohulls and increase transition speed to planing mode.

Legacy and end of an era

The naval architecture world mourned the passing of Marc Lombard, who died in September 2023 at the age of 64. His death marks the end of an era for the La Rochelle firm, but his legacy endures through Marc Lombard Design Group, which he ensured would continue by passing leadership to his longtime collaborators, including Eric Levet.