Kochi-based MKEL Marine, a specialist in watercraft and composite resin technology, has launched five new lines of high-performance watercraft as it seeks to establish Keralam as a hub for maritime design and manufacturing.
The company, which says it aims to reduce India’s dependence on imported luxury watercraft, is targeting growing opportunities in eco-tourism, leisure boating, watersports and marine recreation. The vessels have been designed and manufactured at the company’s facility in Njarackal to international standards.
The new product lines were unveiled recently by Commander Abhilash Tomy (retd), the renowned circumnavigator.
Founded by naval architect and CEO Jose Babu Maliakel, MKEL Marine has combined composite engineering and advanced marine resin technology in its new product range.
The five categories include:
Touring and expedition kayaks: Lightweight composite kayaks designed for long-distance eco-tourism and competitive water sports.
Velor powerboats: High-speed boats using impact-resistant marine resins, aimed at coastal patrol, luxury transit and recreational cruising.
Work motor boats: Fuel-efficient vessels designed for backwater tourism, sports fishing, resorts and passenger transport.
AeroSailing fleet: Sailing yachts designed for improved wind efficiency and ocean sailing and regattas.
RacingX Elite: Competition watercraft aimed at sports academies and international racing circuits.
MKEL Marine has also entered into a strategic design licensing agreement with Perth-based B&G Yacht Design, founded by yacht designer Roberto Barros. Under the agreement, MKEL Marine will manufacture and market two B&G sailing yacht designs globally.
"We are laying the groundwork for a structural transformation in India’s leisure and performance maritime industry by integrating globally benchmarked composite technology with indigenous naval design," said Jose Babu Maliakel.
He said the company’s long-term objective is to develop Keralam into a major Asian hub for high-performance watercraft manufacturing and design.
MKEL Marine is targeting export opportunities in Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and the Maldives. The company sees potential for Keralam to emerge as an exporter of luxury marine products as well as advanced composite engineering solutions.
Tony Chammany MLA, Babu Joseph, executive director of Eurotech Maritime Academy, and Jenson Paul, managing director, also attended the launch ceremony.