Volumetric efficiency and hydrodynamic optimization
Founded by naval architect and sailor Sam Manuard, the firm has established itself as a major player in offshore racing and high-performance cruising yachts. Initially recognized for its success in the Mini 6.50 class, the design office has expanded its expertise to include Class40, IMOCA, and production sailboats (First and Seascape ranges).
The firm’s design signature is based on a unique approach to volume management, exemplified by the popularization of scow-type hulls. This method emphasizes a wide and voluminous bow, increasing power (righting moment) without excessively increasing hydrodynamic drag. Hull studies rely on advanced CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) simulations, aiming for optimal longitudinal balance and reduced bow diving in rough seas. This pursuit of form stability enables the design of platforms that are both faster on downwind points of sail and more forgiving for crews or single-handed sailors.
Integration of systems and embedded intelligence
In modern design, naval architecture no longer stops at hull and sail plan; it encompasses the interoperability of systems. For high-performance units, Manuard integrates weight and power consumption constraints of equipment from the earliest design phase.
Flagship projects and technical references
The portfolio of Sam Manuard Yacht Design demonstrates the ability to transfer cutting-edge racing technologies to production units:
Mini 6.50 class (Series and Proto): Including the Raisin de Raison (no. 747), a pioneer in the scow revolution, and production models such as the Amphitrite.
Class40 (Mach 40 series): Technological dominance with successive evolutions (Mach 40.1 to 40.6), optimized for reaching power and directional stability.
IMOCA: Design of flagship units such as L’Occitane en Provence (first IMOCA with a scow bow) and Malizia-Seaexplorer, built to withstand extreme conditions in the Southern Ocean.
Production sailboats (Beneteau/Seascape): Development of the First range (14, 18, 24, 27, 36, 44), combining deck ergonomics and high-performance hulls for fast cruising.
Black Pepper Yachts: Architecture of the Code 2 models, blending neo-retro aesthetics with offshore racing-cruising performance.
