Le Boat has announced a significant £100 million investment to expand its fleet over the next decade, in a strategic move to enhance its presence and offerings.
- In partnership with Groupe Beneteau, Le Boat plans to build 400 new vessels, introducing innovative designs and expanding into North America.
- The new fleet will include both the current Horizon models and a premium ‘Liberty’ range, enhancing options for boating holiday enthusiasts.
- Le Boat aims to build 100 of the new vessels within the next three years, with the first ‘Liberty’ boats available for holidaymakers from 2025.
- Cheryl Brown, managing director of Le Boat, highlights the importance of this expansion in continuing to deliver high-quality river cruisers and reaching new markets.
Le Boat, a prominent European boat rental company, has unveiled plans to inject over £100 million into expanding its international fleet over the next ten years. This ambitious programme involves constructing 400 new vessels, part of a strategic partnership with Groupe Beneteau, a leading name in boat building and leisure homes.
A notable element of Le Boat’s expansion is the introduction of a new three to four-cabin design, set to launch in 2027, and a new ‘Liberty’ range available from 2025. The partnership with Groupe Beneteau will enable these developments, facilitating Le Boat’s goals of expanding its market footprint, particularly in North America.
The new fleet will see the addition of 100 vessels from the Delphia line within the next three years. This includes a mix of the current Horizon models and the newly designed Liberty boats. The Liberty range, featuring premium innovations, will offer enhanced comfort and luxury on the canals and waterways in France, Germany, England, and the Netherlands.
The first Liberty boats have already been put on sale, with prices starting at £2,000 for a seven-night, self-catering stay. These boats accommodate up to five people, with two cabins and two bathrooms, providing a versatile option for holidaymakers.
Cheryl Brown, managing director of Le Boat, expressed her excitement about the partnership with Groupe Beneteau, stating that the collaboration will allow Le Boat to ‘continue developing high quality river cruisers which our customers will love,’ while expanding into promising new markets like North America.
Erik Stromberg, vice-president of power and motor yachts for Groupe Beneteau, also commented positively on the ongoing partnership, highlighting that Le Boat has been a key ally for many years with their Horizon models. Stromberg emphasised that this next step in their relationship will bolster both Le Boat’s charter business and boat ownership programme.
Le Boat’s strategic £100 million investment marks a significant evolution in its offerings and market reach, promising exciting developments for boating enthusiasts.
