From a Dream to a Legacy: Celebrating 40 Years of Privilege Catamarans

40 Years of “No Compromise”: The History of Privilege Marine

What does it take to build the world’s safest, most comfortable blue-water catamaran? It takes a vision that refuses to compromise.

For four decades, Privilege Marine has stood as a beacon of excellence in the multihull world. In a new video released by the shipyard, we are taken on a journey through this illustrious 40-year history—from the racing roots of its founder to the bespoke luxury of the modern Signature Series.

At The Multihull Company, we are proud to be your authorized global partner for Privilege Marine. Today, we’re looking back at the legacy that makes these boats so special, and looking forward to helping you build your own piece of history.

1985: A Legend’s Vision

The story begins in Les Sables d’Olonne, France, the home of the legendary Vendée Globe race. It was here, in 1985, that Philippe Jeantot—a two-time world champion solo sailor and founder of the Vendée Globe—decided to pivot from racing to cruising.

He wanted a vessel that could carry his family around the world with the same safety and seaworthiness of his racing boats, but with a level of comfort that didn’t exist in the market at the time. When he couldn’t find it, he built it. The result was the birth of the Privilege brand.

The Privilege Difference: Safety, Comfort, and Finish

As the video highlights, the core DNA of Privilege has remained unchanged for 40 years. While other manufacturers have moved toward mass production, Privilege has stayed true to its “semi-custom” roots.

• The Famous “Central Pod”: A hallmark of the brand, the rostral pod on the forward beam provides incredible longitudinal stiffness and allows for the signature owner’s suite—offering the largest master cabin in its class.
• Blue-Water Pedigree: These boats are built to cross oceans. From the robust lamination schedule to the quality of the deck hardware, every Privilege is designed for safety in the toughest conditions.
• Refined Luxury: With 100% custom interior finishing options, a Privilege isn’t just a boat; it’s a floating home tailored to your exact tastes.

The Signature Series: The Next Chapter

Today, the legacy continues with the Signature Series—the Privilege 510, 580, and the flagship 650. These vessels represent the culmination of four decades of feedback from circumnavigators and liveaboards. They combine the legendary seakeeping of the early Jeantot designs with modern performance and contemporary luxury.

Start Your Journey with The Multihull Company

A Privilege catamaran is not bought; it is commissioned. As your dealer, The Multihull Company is here to guide you through this exciting journey.

Whether you are dreaming of the manageable luxury of the Signature 510 or the grandeur of the Signature 650, our team of experts will work with you and the shipyard to ensure your vessel is built to your exact specifications.

Are you ready to write the next chapter of your own history?

Watch the full history in the video above, and then contact us to discuss your build project today.