Berret-Racoupeau

Berret-Racoupeau Yacht Design is a leading French naval architecture firm founded in 1975 by Jean Berret and Olivier Racoupeau in La Rochelle, specializing in high-performance monohull sailboats and luxury motor yachts that blend speed, seaworthiness, and innovative interior functionality. With a portfolio exceeding 200 designs and over 50,000 boats built worldwide, the firm became a cornerstone of Beneteau’s success, notably shaping the First series (including the 32s5, 35s5, 36s7, 40.7, and 45f5) through lightweight, beamy hulls, efficient fractional rigs, and racer-cruiser versatility optimized for production. Their signature style—wide sterns, high ballast ratios, balanced sail plans, and ergonomic cockpits—also defines Jeanneau’s Sun Odyssey and Sun Fast lines, as well as custom IMOCA 60s and superyachts for brands like CNB, Lagoon, and Allures. Collaborating frequently with interior designers like Philippe Starck, Berret-Racoupeau pioneered modern aesthetics in volume production, while their racing pedigree includes multiple Tour de France à la Voile and Vendée Globe entries. Still active under Olivier Racoupeau’s leadership, the firm continues to influence global yacht design with a focus on sustainability, performance, and livability.