11 March 2024
Polish boatbuilder Sunreef Yachts is currently developing a new manufacturing facility in Ras Al Khaimah.
The new shipyard will operate in addition to Sunreef’s two current facilities in Gdansk, Poland, which have a total industrial surface of 125,000 metres squared.
Developed on a 65,000-metre-square land reserve, the new UAE shipyard will incorporate modern boatbuilding technologies, with Sunreef promising it will meet the highest standards of sustainability and energy efficiency.
Sunreef Yachts and RAK Maritime City – a specialised complex and free port – are currently working together to carry out the development of the facility, which will offer a modern paint shop, carpentry, upholstery and stainless steel workshops all equipped with state-of-the-art machinery and latest robotics.
The first manufacturing halls equipped with the latest robotics are now complete, and the shipyard is gearing up for an imminent grand opening.
Sunreef says it chose Ras Al Khaimah and the UAE for its new hub thanks to a combination of geographical location between East and West, Ras Al Khaimah’s industry support, and easy access to key markets and transportation infrastructure.
The yard highlights exceptional incentives offered by the city. “We can now further expand in an environment that merges perfect strategic location, skilled workforce and proactive mindset,” says Francis Lapp, Founder and President of Sunreef Yachts.
“The yachts produced in Ras Al Khaimah will elevate eco-responsible yachting to a new level and showcase industry-first technology. I would like to thank the RAK government and RMC management for their invaluable support in making this dream possible, and I look forward to building a better future for yachting here.”
Munira Lapp, Sunreef Yachts’ Middle East Director, adds: “The Ras Al Khaimah shipyard that we are now developing works hand in hand with our local Dubai office, employing a team of specialists from various fields.
“The aim is to form a yachting think tank that will not only anticipate trends, but will also shape the future of yachting with creative solutions.
“I believe the RAK facility will be the perfect infrastructure to carry out the most advanced eco-responsible yachting concepts.”
Sunreef says the new facility is an important part of its global expansion strategy, emphasising that strengthening the company’s presence in the Middle East will foster a stronger connection with the Asian and Australian markets.
The first units to be produced in Ras Al Khaimah will be the hybrid Ultima catamarans and power and sail yachts ranging from 50 to 70 feet.