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AN IGUANA IN GRANVILLE, HOMETOWN OF THE COMPANY

Some days ago, an Iguana X100 was delivered in Granville. While the team is accustomed to sending boats all over the world, this destination particularly resonated with the company’s history. Iguana Yachts was born from a personal problem. Antoine Brugidou, founder of Iguana Yachts, spends half of his time in Granville where he has enjoyed sailing for more than 40 years but where the tides are very high, which makes launching a boat very complex. Places in the harbor are rare and expensive, there is little infrastructure on the coast, maneuvering with a trailer and a tractor on the beach can be dangerous. Iguana Yachts was born out of a desire to simplify the launching process and the sailing experience in general.

“The old cliché “necessity is the mother of invention” is very true. I wanted to be able to use my boat from my own property which, due to extreme tides, was impossible. Now, we have refined amphibious yachting to a simple and elegant experience in which we have all but erased the line which separates land and sea.”

CAN WE GET A REAL BOAT THAT CAN TAKE US BACK TO THE BEACH?

There were many projects that existed, boats that were imagined in the 18th century and even before, but all these inventions were real contraptions, complicated and not beautiful on land. The boat was not seaworthy. So, the constraint that was set for the designer was that it should be a real boat and that once at sea, you could hardly tell the difference.

One of the interesting elements of this project is that they started by saying that they were going to make a boat. Then, they became interested in the problem of land mobility and realized that this problem was as complicated, or even more complicated than moving a boat on the sea, and the integration of the two is even more complicated. So, finally, they gradually put together a team of people from very different backgrounds: designers, specialists in automobile prototypes, construction, manufacturing… This is what makes it a very rich project integrating a lot of know-how.

HOW DID THE DESIGNERS AND ENGINEERS MET THE CHALLENGE?

The fact that the Iguana can go up on land generates a lot of technical and design constraints that had to be hidden in favor of the nautical aspect and its design because one of the requirements was to make a very elegant boat. The initial problem was that the boat should also be able to go up on quicksand and soft ground, and the caterpillar quickly became a necessity in terms of use and design. The fact that the track is on the side of the boat makes it relatively easy to understand and not too technical.

There was a whole design phase where they came up with this caterpillar concept, then the collaboration with a naval architect to approach the nautical parts of the boat in a more serious way. This collaboration also brought a lot to the design, with very sharp lines and a piercing bow, which has the advantage of going through the sea very well, and which reinforced the elegance of the boat. There was the objective of making it a very beautiful object, which is worked on through the lines and materials. They also wanted a boat that was a little original, out of step with what was being done, particularly in terms of comfort. They worked a lot on the notion of accessorizing.

2011 – First prototype in Normandy

2012 – Second prototype in Arcachon

FROM THE IDEA TO THE FIRST MODEL

Together with his long-time friend and designer Antoine Fritsch, Antoine Brugidou first embarked on the project in 2008, with the objective to create a seaworthy boat with integrated landing gear. Many were amused by their audacity, but after toiling with a range of solutions they settled on a final design for the iconic Iguana Original which exceeded all expectations.

After five years of R&D, the first boat was sold to a client in the Middle East in 2013, which opened their eyes to the further potential of its amphibious capabilities. People from all over the world were suddenly keen to express their needs, from landing on remote islands in the Bahamas to embarking a family member with a physical disability. It became clear that Iguana Yachts’ concept could radically change the traditional boating experience for a range of different people, offering new solutions for safety and access.

2013 – First Iguana Yachts sold in Bahrain

Today, thirteen years after the birth of the concept in Granville, it is in this same city that the 54th Iguana Yachts lays its tracks. This coincidence allows the Iguana team to realize how far they have come and to look back with pride at all the beautiful projects that have been accomplished since then.

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NEW DESIGN – DARK GRAY METALLIC IGUANA COMMUTER

Discover the dark gray metallic Iguana Commuter and its options in video and photos. Enjoy its roomy sun lounger, adjustable driver’s seat, cabin, electric flush head, seating layout, electric T-top…

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INTERVIEW OF JP SHIPMAN, IGUANA YACHTS USA

Tell us about your background in the yachting industry? What was your most significant experience?

I’m an avid yachtsman with over four decades of offshore maritime experience. During such time I served on the Board of Directors for the International Superyacht Society, ISS, Superyacht Broker with Camper & Nicholson’s and Northrop & Johnson respectively. I served as consultant on various new build, marina, resort and island projects. My most significant experience was increasing membership and marketing initiatives with ISS.

What was appealing in joining Iguana Yachts? Had you heard of the company before?

I first heard about Iguana Yachts from a Superyacht captain friend of mine then from an overseas recruitment team. What appealed to me was the craft’s versatility and craftsmanship. It’s the ultimate tender for a charter yacht campaign with incredibly safe beaching capabilities for guests.

How would you define your role at Iguana Yachts? What do you like so far in the company?

My role at Iguana Yachts is to enhance brand awareness, increase dealer exposure and continue to build on our four main areas: Superyachts, Hotels & Resorts, Islands along with waterfront properties in North America. 

What I most enjoy about Iguana Yachts to date is you feel like part of a team and family. Each and every employee are there to serve customer needs and promote the brand in a responsible manner. There is a certain pride of production and ownership. It’s a group of intelligent yachtsman that only settle for the best.

What I most enjoy about Iguana Yachts to date is you feel like part of a team and family. Each and every employee are there to serve customer needs and promote the brand in a responsible manner.

What are your main challenges as Iguana Yachts USA? And, according to you, what are the main challenges for the company in general?

The main challenges of Iguana Yachts that I see are gaining exposure to brand awareness. Many of these wonderful crafts remain hidden in remote locations. It’s my goal to increase exposure through targeted marketing and sales efforts.

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CUSTOM PROJECT FOR SUPERYACHT

The Iguana design department is working on many different custom projects. In 2021, they worked on a project for a superyacht and developed many different custom options. Discover the design sketches of these options and some pictures of the boat.

This beautiful knight tender was designed for a 51m yacht. With custom options like a driver’s bimini, a roll-up bar, a modular center island, this RIB is absolutely unique. The white tube and red line matches perfectly with the yacht color. With strong lifting points, this tender is easily crane on the yacht for long journeys, it can also be towed or used as a chase boat.

One particular option on this tender is the secondary electric engine. It can be used to enter ports or marinas at low speed with a green and quiet propulsion. A specific seat was made for this second engine. The main engine for this tender is a Diesel outboard, which is perfect to embark on the yacht.

OPTION DRIVER’S BIMINI

OPTION ROLL BAR CUSTOM

KIT OPION SIDE ACCESS FOLDING STAIR

KIT OPTION CENTRAL ISLAND CUSTOM

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WHY ARE AMPHIBIOUS BOATS SUSTAINABLE?

Contrary to what people might think, the overall impact of an amphibious boat is more sustainable than a traditional motorboat. Firstly because amphibious Iguanas don’t rely on any infrastructure to be operated.  Secondly because it does not spend as much time in the water and does not need any toxic products on the hull. Lastly, because it is easier to maintain and Iguanas are made of durable materials to withstand significant impact on land and at sea.

No ports congestion & no invasive infrastructures 

The Iguana concept is designed to be versatile and self-sufficient by not relying on infrastructure and by relieving overcrowded ports which are a primary source of water pollution. Iguanas do not need ports, pontoons or docks to be operated. It is an all-in-one, versatile and integrated solution. Iguanas are less harmful to the coasts as they do not transform and alter the environment.

Less damaging and polluting time in the water with toxic products

Having a boat stay in the water all year long is very harmful for the environment. Iguanas stay in the water for the time they are being used as they are stored on land. It limits water and visual pollution. It is also less damaging for the boat and thus more durable. As the boat is stored on land, the hull does not need antifouling. It also get less damaged by salt and does not need to be streamlined every year.

Easy to maintain and durable materials

The boat can be put out of the water in seconds which facilitates maintenance. As Iguana owners have easy access to the hull and deck, Iguanas are usually well maintained and last long. The development of the mobility system was a technological achievement and required high quality material and sheer mechanisms. The carbon fiber hull, the 5083 marine-grade aluminium powertrain with epoxy paint, the 316 stainless steel bearing and rams make the Iguana more sturdy and durable than other boats. 

RESPECTFUL OF THE COAST

Iguanas are versatile and stealth. They were designed to reduce port congestion and to eradicate the need for heavy infrastructures. Owners choose Iguanas to have an environmental friendly solution that does not damage the coast. Iguanas limit water and visual pollution and limit the built-up land footprint from docks and marinas. 

Iguana Original water edge
  • NO NEED FOR INFRASTRUCTURE

Iguanas don’t require building heavy infrastructure to host the boat like marinas, docks or ports which are very damaging to the environment. Iguana limit the build of docks along the coast. They reduce considerably the water and visual pollution but also the built-up land footprint of a boat. Iguanas adapt to the environment and coast. 

  • REDUCING PORT POLLUTION 

Iguanas limit the use of overcrowded ports which are very polluting. Boats in ports are used on average less than 10 days per year but stay in the water most of the time and release toxic products.

  • LIMITING ON LAND TRAFFIC

Iguana owners don’t need to drive to a dock, a ramp or a port to use their boat. It limits land traffic and car pollution. 

RESPECTFUL OF THE SEA

Iguanas are stored out of the water which limits their time in the water. Boats staying all year long in the water are very harmful for the sea. Iguanas release less toxic products in the water. Moreover, Iguanas are stealth and do not disturb swimmers and sea life by staying in the water. 

  • LIMITED TIME IN THE WATER

Iguanas are stored on land and do not need to stay too long in the water. It limits the release of toxic products in the water. Moreover, Iguanas are stealth and get out of the way to not disturb sealife. They stay in the water only for the time of use.

  • NO NEED FOR TOXIC PRODUCTS

As Iguanas do not stay in the water, there is no need for antifouling which is very harmful for the environment.

  • NO ANCHORS DAMAGING OCEAN FLOORS

Iguanas usually don’t use anchors and moorings as they can get out of the water in seconds. They have no impact on ocean floor.

RESPECTFUL OF THE BEACH

Iguanas are used in the most respectful way to have no impact on the beach. Following a code of conduct, owners use the mobility system for swift landings at the edge of the water to leave no traces behind. The tracks have a very low ground pressure and have less impact than a boat beaching. 

Iguana Commuter on land
  • USED AT THE WATER EDGE

Iguanas land on the shore where the waves break in the water wash and does a U-Turn to put the ladder down at the limit of dry sand to drop passengers. In a few seconds the tracks are washed away by the water leaving no traces behind. 

  • VERY LOW GROUND PRESSURE

As the tracks are large and long, in square centimeters the pressure is equivalent to an 80 kg human footprint. The tracks have low impact on the soil and the mobility system stays on the ground surface. Thus, the boat has a lower impact than a boat beaching.

  • NO DRIVING UP THE BEACH

Iguanas are boats first and foremost, they are not used as land vehicles. The mobility system is only used for swift launches and landings, and to get the boat to its storage location.

DURABLE HIGH-TECH BUILD

Iguanas high-tech boats are built with the latest technologies. With sheer mechanism and high quality materials, Iguanas are easy to maintain and durable. They also get damaged less quickly and are more durable as they are stored out of the water.

  • EASY TO MAINTAIN

Iguanas are easy to maintain as they can get out of the water easily. Going around the boat, checking and repairing is very simple. Moreover, the boat is designed with sheer mechanisms to facilitate maintenance.

  • DURABLE MATERIAL AND SUSTAINABLE USE

guanas are one of the most technologically advanced boat in the marine industry. Using carbon fiber hull, marine-grade aluminium, stainless steel and epoxy paint, Iguanas are sturdy and last long. Moreover, Iguanas spend less time in salty water than traditional boats, and get damaged less quickly. They are also sheltered from storms and bad weather as they are stored on land.

  • ELECTRIC LAND DRIVE

Since 2016, Iguanas are electric on land which is more respectful for the environment in terms of air pollution and noise.

Iguana Yachts Commuter exclusive

TO CONCLUDE

Another key advantage of amphibious boats is how secure they are. Iguanas offer a very safe experience for boating enthusiasts. Boarding on dry sand is easy and stable. Escaping a storm and finding shelter on land takes seconds. The sea becomes less of a hazard for sailors. Iguanas are often used as rescue boats around the world.

Amphibious boats overall impact rely mostly on users and how they use the boat in a good manner. Owners choose Iguana for its non-invasive operating system which does not damage their coast. They also receive a code of conduct from Iguana to use the boat in the most respectful manner (landing in precise locations, landing at the edge of the water, limiting impact on beaches…). 

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HOW IGUANA YACHTS ADAPTED TO THE COVID?

Like all companies today, the Covid has definitely impacted Iguana Yachts and its team. Some new ways to work were developed with an increased remote work and the creation of smaller production teams. Looking on the bright side, this unprecedented period also allowed the company to evolve and develop new aspects.

AN INCREASED DIGITAL PRESENCE TO COMPENSATE FOR THE CANCELLED BOAT SHOWS

Throughout the year, we have sadly learned of the successive cancellation of boat shows including Antigua Charter Yacht Show (December 2020), Boot Dusseldorf (January 2021) or Dubaï Boat Show (March 2021).

We compensated for the boat show cancellations by strengthening our digital presence through social media and the improvement of our website. While we are aware that a technology such as the Iguana Mobility System can only be fully understood and appreciated through a real experience, we are trying to transcribe this experience as well as possible via videos and a better sharing of information about our technology.

Since the situation is slowly getting better, we hope to enjoy the Cannes Yachting Festival and the Monaco Yacht Show in September 2021.

THE SALES TEAM FOCUSED ON THE IGUANA DEALER NETWORK

Since the end of 2020, Iguana Yachts’ sales team has grown with the arrival of Toby Scruby and the very recent arrival of JP Shipman in the last month.

A growing demand around the world as well as a desire to strengthen our presence in the United States, which is proving to be a high potential market for Iguana amphibious boats, led us to decision. However, the particular year we are going through does not facilitate the daily work of this team which needs to come and meet customers, and to organize sea trials around the world. These trips are an integral part of their work, so the team had to adapt and find solutions.

In the end, this period allowed us to focus on a commercial aspect that was already present but whose potential was still under-exploited: the Iguana partner network made of agents and dealers.

CHANGES AT THE SHIPYARD

Like most companies today, we are experiencing operational difficulties due to global supply disruptions. This situation has an impact on the supply of outboard engines for example. However, thanks a well achieved risk analysis work on supply forecasts, we were able to anticipate the situation.

In a non-Covid world, the Iguana Yachts’ shipyard is visited quite regularly by boat enthusiasts, customers, journalists… Unfortunately, these visits had to be restricted to the strict necessary. The owners of the boats in production could continue to visit us while respecting the sanitary rules, but the exchanges with the enthusiasts, the curious and the journalists within the shipyard could not continue. We are aware that the Iguana technology is still quite impressive to see and we are eager for some people to exchange with our teams on its operation and capabilities. So, we hope to be able to reopen the shipyard to a wider audience in the next few months.

Despite the covid crisis, Iguana Yachts have recorded a 25% growth this year and we expect a similar or even stronger growth for the coming year. Health restrictions and new habits have finally highlighted the many benefits of the Iguana technology. Having a boat directly at home has never been more appropriate.

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FOLLOW AN IGUANA THROUGH ITS PRODUCTION

The production of an Iguana is composed of two main stages: before-decking and after-decking. It is the final mounting of the deck that separates these two major stages of production.

Before-decking

Before-decking consists of assembling all the elements inside the hull, mounting the “arms” (the Iguana Mobility System) and preparing the deck. Once the deck has been received, the team cuts it out and assembles the hatches. 

For the elements inside the hull, as well as for the cutting of the deck, the team must take into consideration the options chosen by the owner. One of the most obvious examples is the choice to add a toilet. Obviously, this choice has an impact on the pre-deck work because it can modify a part of the deck plan compared to a boat not having this option. Each option can therefore have an impact on the pre-deck work. Thus, from the beginning of its production, an Iguana can be very different from another.

The assembly of the arms is a very technical and precise job. The Iguana Mobility System is a unique system characterized by its perfect integration into the boat’s hull. Indeed, the IMS allows the boat to keep all its capacities at sea because it is perfectly integrated into the hull lines. Thus, the installation of the arms is a work done to the nearest minimeter.

In before-decking, the team also prepares a maximum number of elements to facilitate the assembly of the boat in after-decking. For example, the steering console is cut out manually with a jigsaw. This type of work shows the importance of craftsmanship at Iguana Yachts.

An Iguana remains in the before-decking phase for 10 to 15 days before being handed over to the after-decking team.

After-decking

Unlike before-decking, the time spent by an Iguana in after-decking is very difficult to define.

After-decking is the assembly of all the elements being on the deck of the boat. Thus, the after-deck workers are the last link in the chain. The progress of their tasks is extremely dependent on the progress of the other links (before-decking, painters, electricians, suppliers…).

Moreover, the work of this team is almost entirely dictated by the options chosen by the owner. Indeed, it is during this phase that all the finishing touches are made. 

Electricians and painters

Whether it is before or after decking, the teams of painters and electricians are involved throughout the production of an Iguana.

The electricians play a major role in linking the work done by the two main teams (before-decking and ater-decking). They ensure that an Iguana is easy to use. They link the controls from the steering console to the system installed inside the hull by the pre-deck team. Again, the work of the electricians is different for each boat because it is highly dependent on the options chosen by the Iguana owner. In addition, some models require more time. For example, the Iguana Commuter is a sophisticated model with a convertible hard-top, a cabin, an electric ladder, memory seats… All these features are accessible via the pilot’s touch screen and therefore require a lot of work from the electricians.

As for the painters, they work on some small elements that can be painted, like the fuel tank for example, but the most impressive part of their work is the sanding and painting of the hull. Again, the work of the painters at Iguana Yachts is considered as craftsmanship because they create unique and intricate paintings. Each hull is a new piece of art for this team of artists.

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IGUANA YACHTS’ DEALER NETWORK EXPANDS

For the last few months, the company accelerated its growth with new dealerships around the world. Iguana Yachts strengthens its position on the leisure market by opening new markets with Thailand and Croatia but also by reinforcing its presence in the United States with two new partners in Michigan and Massachusetts.

Iguana Yachts’ technology asserts itself as a worldwide solution.

The niche market for amphibious boats finds applications in multiple regions of the world. By overcoming the rupture between land and sea, Iguana is the most powerful solution to access the sea with ease and comfort. Boat dealerships opt for Iguanas as the most capable amphibious boat in the world. 

This rapid expansion represents a turning point for Iguana Yachts. With now partners in 9 locations around the world, the shipyard not only confirms the need for Iguanas and the performance of the solution but it also confirms the extent of the market potential.

Iguana Yachts’ dealer network expands to new territories such as Thailand and Croatia.

Iguana Yachts extends in new countries with partners in Thailand and Croatia. Applications for amphibious solutions are endless for the remote beaches and coves of Thailand. Satiwas Chaisirivichiean from MF Group understood the potential of such a powerful boat in those shallow waters. From waterfront property owners to superyachts enthusiasts, Thailand overflows with possibilities for Iguanas. With two boats already sold in Thailand and others on the way, Iguana might grow beyond expectations on the asian market.

Already well implemented on the French Riviera, in Corsica and in the superyacht world, Iguana Yachts opens new markets in the mediterrannean with Croatia. As a growing market for leisure boats and a paradise for superyacht charters, Croatia offers amazing applications for amphibious Iguanas. Adria Luxury Boats plans on convincing even more superyachts of the benefits of such a multifunctional tender in this beautiful region. 

Iguana Yachts’ presence in the United States is intensified with new dealers in Michigan and Nantucket.

Iguana Yachts strengthens its presence in the US. With already existing partners in Florida and Massachusetts, the amphibious shipyard opens new partnerships in Michigan and Nantucket.

The US market is an amazing territory for amphibious solutions. Susie and Lewis Cooper from Elk Rapids Marina rapidly realized the potential of Iguanas for Lake Michigan where many waterfront villas do not have any pontoon or ramp. The Iguana offers direct access to the water in seconds thanks to the tracked landing gear. Owners can park their boat in their backyard and enjoy relaxing boating journeys.

Iguana intensifies its actions in Massachusetts where the market potential for amphibious solutions is tremendous with a partnership with Nantucket Marine

THAILAND

MF Group

118/40 ท่าจีน Mueang Samut Sakhon District, Samut Sakhon 74000

CROATIA

Adria Luxury Boats

ACI Marina Ičići, Liburnijska ulica 7a, 51414 Ičići

USA, MICHIGAN

Elk Rapids Marina

118 Bridge Street, Elk Rapids, Michigan 49629

USA, NANTUCKET

Nantucket Marine

14 Sun Island Rd, Nantucket, MA 02554

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WHY CHOOSE AN IGUANA FOR MY ISLAND?

What are the main advantages of having an Iguana on my island?

On your island, use your Iguana as your main means of transportation.

Having an Iguana on your island gives you the opportunity to commute to the mainland for supply provision. You can bring shopping from the mainland directly to your door avoiding multiple trips to and from your pontoon. The Iguana is definitely easier to use than a traditional boat, you can even collect visitors at the nearest airport and drop them directly on your island.

Take care of your island with an eco-friendly boat.

We know islands’ owners are attached to the beauty of their island. The Iguana is the perfect boat to enjoy the island while caring about it. Contrary to what people may think, the environmental impact of an Iguana is lower than a normal boat, requiring less in terms of logistics, material and unsightly infrastructure. There is no need for heavy infrastructure, no pontoon, no long stay in the water, no antifouling, no degradation of paint, no anchor ripping the underwater ground. Moreover, the pressure of the tracks on the ground equals the pressure of a man standing on one foot.

“With the Commuter I can leave right now, dressed as I am, it’s totally weather protected. The hard top coming up and down to make an enclosed cockpit is something the design team manhandled perfectly. No rain or sea water comes in.”

Is an Iguana as performant as a traditional boat?

Enjoy uncompromised performance at sea and mobility in all conditions.

The Iguana is designed to operate in challenging conditions year after year. With Iguana’s building techniques and cleverly integrated mobility system, the strength of the boat is actually increased and provides the operator with a secure driving feel and peace of mind. All this is achieved with no loss of performance. Once the tracks fold into the hull, the Iguana becomes a powerful boat equipped to navigate in all conditions. Feel free to navigate in all weather conditions (up to 4ft. waves) and land on any type of terrain.

Your Iguana becomes a part of your instant evacuation plan.

The Iguana Mobility System is also used on security and rescue boats. The Iguana glides over waves allowing you to vacate your island or complete supply runs when storms hit. It becomes part of your instant intervention plan for hurricane evacuation.

To which profiles is the Iguana adapted?

Personal use on my island

The Iguana is perfectly adapted to private islands because it offers the best way to commute to the mainland. It is also used by the owners to enjoy all parts of their island, to access secluded beaches and coves, and to transport guests whenever they want. The Iguana increases the sensation of freedom felt when leaving on a private island.

Guests experience on my island

The Iguana is the ideal boat for full guest experience islands. It can be offered as an activity in itself and also facilitates many other activities on the island.

For example, Eustatia is a full guest experience island offering ultimate privacy and guest experience, the stay includes watersport activities and the unique Iguana. The Iguana is operated for guest transfers, watersports and was used a few times as a first response boat to get injured guests to the medical facility.

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IGUANA YACHTS IN THE US: INTERVIEW OF BRETT DAVID

What’s the story behind Prestige Imports Miami?

Prestige Imports was originally founded by my father in 1977 but at the time we started off as just a Pre Owned luxury car sales center to mix with every type of domestic and European import in the 70s. It was way before our opportunity of being a Lamborghini dealer in 1989. 

"We operate our business never forgetting that service is key, that the experience is key. So, all all the brands we work with follow that same admission guidelines."

My father aspired to be a Lamborghini dealer for a very long time. He saw and felt Lamborghini as this iconic brand that Ferruccio Lamborghini had created. After we had taken Lamborghini, in 1989, we remained one of the larger Lamborghini dealers in the country. After that, we acquired different brands like Lotus and Audi. 

When I came on to the brand, there were two brands that I saw for passion, Pagani and Karma. My father had a dream of working with Horacio Pagani, and I was pasionnate about representing the hybrid, luxury electric automotive manufacturer Karma. We operate our business never forgetting that service is key, that the experience is key. So, all the brands we work with follow that same admission guidelines. There is a passion behind each brand.

Why did you launch Prestige Marine?

Prestige Marine started as a passion project for us. My father lived on a boat for 16 years before he ever owned a home. He was always telling my mother “My Sunday is going to be father and son day”. My head was into cars for six days a week, but on the Sunday we were always on a boat together. 

After my father passed away, I was left with his very large Sunseeker and his speedboats. I remember saying to myself “I’m going to start fresh, and recreate a brand in memory of my father”. The concept of Prestige Marine started when I bought my first Midnight Express.

As I started working with multiple brands like Pardo and Vandutch, I thought that I needed to run a yacht and marine business, the same way that the automotive industry is operated.

Why did you choose Iguana Yachts?

There is a lot of different manufacturers that I’ve me, which in theory sound really cool but the execution is not there. That was my biggest fear when I looked at competitors of Iguana Yachts. The concept of having a boat that transfers from water to land is very cool, but nobody had ever executed it in a seamless fashion, with a product and engineering that actually works in rough seas and on different types of terrain, and that remains aesthetically beautiful.

The first time I discovered Iguana Yachts in one of the magazines, I remember thinking “Oh my God, this is something that we have to represent in the Prestige Marine family”. At the time, a client of ours had just purchased one and I was amazed. Many people can conceptually think of an idea of something cool like this but very few can actually execute it. That’s why you’re the only amphibious brand we would ever want to work with.

What was your feeling the first time you tried an Iguana?

First, as you walk up to the vessel, you have the impression that it’s sitting there, waiting for you. You walk around it, look at a very notable engine, at the exterior design, and touch all of the different materials. You start wondering how the tracks must embed themselves into the hole. Then, you take a step back and you look at the actual aesthetics of the all itself and forget about the track system.

"I was hitting speeds of 45+ mph through waves and I was amazed because I completely forgot that a few moments ago this vessel rode itself up on shore."

Then, you get on the vessel and you experience it. It goes into the water and you feel this immediate keel sensation of the legs being there. On the click of a button, you hear the system retract. I couldn’t believe how simple it was. Once the track system is retracted, it is as if you have a regular hull. I was hitting speeds of 45+ mph through waves and I was amazed because I completely forgot that a few moments ago this vessel rode itself up on shore.

We came back and deployed the track system to come on the beach. The minute the track system kissed the sand, there was an automatic grapple factor. By itself, it was able to take and lift the boat out of the water. I was amazed with the stability, and because it actually worked.

The fourth and most impressive thing was walking off of the vessel. In America, there’s a saying that every truck driver that drives an 18-wheeler walks away from it, turns around after 10 feet, turns back and says “I drive that big thing”. That was the same experience that I had on the Iguana. I walked off the vessel, walked about 10 steps and turned around and said “This is amazing”.

Who are your Iguana clients?

So far, the customer base is all over the spectrum. We’ve dealt with customers that are purchasing them for the back of their big yachts, we’ve dealt with specific crews of very large vessels that are purchasing on behalf of the owner, we have a lot of waterfront homeowners that want to purchase it. So, we’ve met clients from every walk of life and that’s also a very cool thing about Iguana.

What are your clients’ feedback?

I have never seen a client that isn’t smiling from ear to ear. Some of my clients have also said that this is the future of marine boating. They wanted to be a part of the Iguana movement. 

What are the main benefits for your clients?

It’s the fact that at any time, they can snap their fingers, and they have the versatility of not just having an amphibious vessel in the water but being able to come up on land. It gives you an opportunity to explore areas you never thought you could. But also, in today’s day and age, it becomes an instagrammable moment. It is an experience.

What do you want to offer with Iguana Yachts?

We want to offer them the opportunity to not limit themselves to this traditional and specific way of boating. We want to welcome them to a brand that we, as Prestige Imports, have vetted from every sense of the word. We’re talking about a product that looks beautiful, performs incredibly, has resale value and durability. And we are a delaer welcoming it to the United States, delivering more than just a product of boating, delivering an experience.

"I'm super happy, I'm grateful to be part of your family. I'm grateful to have worked with Antoine, to work with Steve and the entire team."