Juan KOUYOUMDJIAN

Ultra performance

Just out of the school of naval architecture at the Southampton Institute, Juan Kouyoumdjian became architect for the America’s Cup. He joined the French Challenge in 1995.

Armed with this new experience and his growing reputation, Juan Kouyoumdjian set up his own naval architect’s office in Valencia in 1997. In the beginning, Juan Yacht design designed both cruising yachts and racing yachts, but quickly the office began to specialize in the design and production of ultra high-performing racing yacht plans.

Juan Kouyoumdjian attempted the adventure with the French team again in 2000 and then joined the Prada design team for the Italian challenge 3 years later. In 2007, he took part in his fourth Louis Vuitton Cup with the American BMW Oracle team. His reputation was made during the Volvo Ocean Race with the combined success of ABN Amro One in 2005/2006 and Ericsson 4 in 2008/2009, for which he was architect.

The reputation of his office, Juan Yacht design then became intercontinental. The name of Juan Kouyoumdjian has since been associated with success and his office, recognized in sailing circles as the most creative and innovative.

Just 38 years old, Juan Kouyoumdjian is now considered to be the best naval architect. The French Argentinian would appear to wish to follow in the tradition of his fellow countryman, German Frers.

The designs by German Frers also won the most important races round the world such as the Volvo Ocean Race and the Admiral’s Cup.

Like his elder in the 1980s, Juan Kouyoumdjian has decided to put his talent to use in the BENETEAU First range by attacking the lines of the legendary First 30.