Fountaine Pajot reveals Asia demand for Isla 40

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Fountaine Pajot launched the Isla 40 in late 2020

Kevin Corfa, Head of Fountaine Pajot Asia, has announced four recent sales across Hong Kong and Japan of the Isla 40, the brand’s new entry-level sailing catamaran that launched in late 2020.

“It looks that the Isla 40 is answering an increasing demand. It’s the right product at the right time and Fountaine Pajot dealers now have the opportunity to showcase this great model to their prospects,” Corfa said.

The Isla 40 has demonstrated its appeal and we’re talking to numerous owners in Asia about the model. Along with the four recent sales, we hope for at two or three more to be confirmed before Chinese New Year.”

Bambina, an Isla 40, was delivered to Dream Marine in Hong Kong; Photo: Dream Marine

One Isla 40 for Hong Kong was recently delivered to Dream Marine, a new charter company, whose recent guests on Bambina included an owner awaiting the delivery of an Astrea 42 in 2022.

“Allowing owners waiting for their boats to get familiar on board other Fountaine Pajot boats is a useful service and can be a business model in Asia,” Corfa said.

“To purchase a catamaran today, whatever the brand, you need a fair amount of patience. Such a service is welcome and can be developed further.”

Dream Marine is a new charter company in Hong Kong; Photo: Dream Marine

Another Isla 40 will soon be delivered to China Pacific Marine, the city’s official dealer for Fountaine Pajot sailing catamarans, who will then arrange a handover to the client.

“China Pacific Marine has a successful track record arranging commissioning and service for boats arriving in Hong Kong,” Corfa said.

“We realise how important commissioning and after-sales service is, even if Fountaine Pajot offers the option to get the boat pretty much fully ready in La Rochelle. Fountaine Pajot is fully covered in Hong Kong with China Pacific Marine for sailing models and Asia Yachting for the motor range.”

One new Isla 40 owner plans to sail around Asia; Photo: Gilles Martin-Raget

One Isla 40 owner in Asia has already planned a long cruise around the region starting in spring 2022 that will make the most of the Fountaine Pajot network of dealers, which includes Yacht Sourcing in Indonesia.

“We now have a professional, reliable network all over Asia to make sure every boat is well taken care of,” Corfa said.

The Frenchman has been taken aback by the appeal of the Isla 40 as the demand for the brand is typically focused on larger models, with Fountaine Pajot building seven sailing models up to the flagship Alegria 67.

The Isla 40 has an elegant interior; Photo: Gilles Martin-Raget

“I was surprised a smaller cat would be so appealing to local markets. Obviously once you see the interior, you understand that this Isla 40 has brought available space to another level and I guess that makes the difference. A 40ft catamaran is no longer seen as a small boat in Hong Kong,” Corfa said.

“Although catamarans have become more expensive recently due to supply chain issues, what you get for your money now is absolutely astonishing. The price per sqft makes them really appealing as owners put living space top of the list when they compare boats. Combined with a refined, spacious interior, you get a boat that’s enjoyable for sailing and while mooring with guests or family.”