Aeronautical subcontractor for Airbus that launched into sailing in 2023 with a unique project: the first IMOCA built with 70% re-used carbon fiber from Airbus offcuts.
An aeronautical subcontractor building its first IMOCA
A subsidiary of the Duqueine Group based in Malville
Duqueine Atlantique is located in Malville (Loire-Atlantique), between Nantes and Saint-Nazaire. It is a subsidiary of the Duqueine Group, a mid-sized Lyon-based company specializing in aeronautical composites. The Malville plant has historically worked for Airbus, which accounts for nearly all of its turnover (>€30M in 2024, around 150 employees).
Sailing diversification began in 2023
In 2023, the yard built a dedicated facility to house its first sailing project: an IMOCA for Armel Tripon, designed by VPLP design office. To avoid waste from building a new mold, the boat is molded over the hull of Malizia-Seaexplorer (IMOCA VPLP built by Multiplast in Vannes in 2022). The deck, however, is fully redesigned.
The bet on re-used carbon fiber
The yard’s innovation: 70% of the boat is built using carbon declared unfit for flight by Airbus, recovered at the Technocentre in Olonne (Nantes). Titanium fittings come from medical offcuts (orthopedic equipment). Claimed result: ≈50% reduction in the 580 t of CO₂ typically emitted to build an IMOCA. Total budget: €6.5M. Target: 2028 Vendée Globe entry under the colors of the Les P'tits Doudous association.
Skysat on board
Skysat was involved in the boat’s preparation.
