Seascape : "We bet that our passion can survive within the Bénéteau group ! "

Kristian Hajnsek and Andraz Mihelin, founders of Seascape, now part of Bénéteau's First range

The founders of the Seascape yacht brand, Kristian Hajnsek and Andraz Mihelin, explain the process that led to their integration into the Bénéteau Group and their ambitions for the future.

Briag Merlet Published on September 18, 2018

A long process

The acquisition by the Bénéteau Group of the Slovenian sailboat brand Seascape in the summer of 2018 was the result of a long process. Its initiation surprised even its founders, Kristian Hajnsek and Andraz Mihelin. " At first, we didn't believe it! " exclaims the former. " It started at the 2017 Düsseldorf trade show. We were approached by a person who was asking us a lot of questions. Since he seemed to know the job site well, I thought he was a journalist. When I asked him what magazine he worked for, he told me he was from Bénéteau. When I asked him to specify his position, he said he was the head of the group. In fact, it was Hervé Gastinel who was asking around! I didn't know his face. There were then long exchanges to arrive at the buyout this summer. It was the right time to find the means to develop new boats. "

Keeping the Seascape spirit within Bénéteau

While the Seascape yacht models have been rebranded as First to join the Bénéteau boat lineup, the Slovenian brand's founders are confident about its future. " It's a challenge. We are betting, literally with our money, that we can bring our passion to the Bénéteau Group. We think that a shipyard like us, with a turnover of a few hundred thousand euros, can find its place within a group that makes more than a billion euros. "Seascape, based in Slovenia, is now continuing its activity within the French group.

Seascape 24 redecorated with Bénéteau colors under the name First 24

Specialists in small sailboats

While Hervé Gastinel, president of the Bénéteau Group, has announced the launch of a complete range of sailing yachts under the First brand, from 18 to over 60 feet, Kristian Hajnsek and Andraz Mihelin want to focus on smaller models. " We stay on sailboats under 40 feet. To really sail, you don't need a bigger boat! " exclaims Andraz Mihelin with a laugh. Asked about the possibility for Seascape to design a Mini 6.50, a series they have been racing, a project that could be consistent with the release of the Figaro Bénéteau 3, Kristian Hajnsek smiles." Why not! But it would be a project for image and pleasure! "