Captain Dan –
A Life Shaped by Tradition, Adventure, and Maritime Passion
Dan’s fascination with boats began in childhood. At the age of ten he started sailing, before dedicating himself to windsurfing –
even competing professionally for two years. The thrill of speed, wind, and waves soon led him into the world of regattas: the European Cup with the 18-footer skiff and numerous races in Hobie Cat, ¼ Tonner, and Trias classes. Stepping up to larger yachts, Meury sailed on some of the world’s most iconic offshore racers: the former Whitbread Round the World yachts Union Bank of Finland, UBS Switzerland, and La Poste, as well as the 12mR France, an America’s Cup contender.
These experiences deepened his seamanship, resilience, and appreciation for the spirit of ocean racing.
At the same time, he built up a chain of sporting goods stores and later founded a shipyard in Cudrefin, offering sailing schools, repairs, and Mediterranean yacht charters.
A milestone came when he restored the 28-meter wooden ketch Orkun in Turkey. What began as a dream turned into six adventurous years at sea, shaping his philosophy that a yacht is not just a vessel but a cultural treasure and a true home on the water.
Back on land, Meury took on the role of project leader for the superyacht ISIS in Toulon. For three years, he oversaw design, outfitting, and tender construction, including his own development – the Swell Tender. Later, back in Switzerland, he collaborated as a yacht designer with Groupe Poncin Yachts and the Pin Rolland shipyard in Toulon. He also restored classic yachts, while applying his craftsmanship to unique projects for events and exhibitions.
even competing professionally for two years. The thrill of speed, wind, and waves soon led him into the world of regattas: the European Cup with the 18-footer skiff and numerous races in Hobie Cat, ¼ Tonner, and Trias classes. Stepping up to larger yachts, Meury sailed on some of the world’s most iconic offshore racers: the former Whitbread Round the World yachts Union Bank of Finland, UBS Switzerland, and La Poste, as well as the 12mR France, an America’s Cup contender.
These experiences deepened his seamanship, resilience, and appreciation for the spirit of ocean racing.
At the same time, he built up a chain of sporting goods stores and later founded a shipyard in Cudrefin, offering sailing schools, repairs, and Mediterranean yacht charters.
A milestone came when he restored the 28-meter wooden ketch Orkun in Turkey. What began as a dream turned into six adventurous years at sea, shaping his philosophy that a yacht is not just a vessel but a cultural treasure and a true home on the water.
Back on land, Meury took on the role of project leader for the superyacht ISIS in Toulon. For three years, he oversaw design, outfitting, and tender construction, including his own development – the Swell Tender. Later, back in Switzerland, he collaborated as a yacht designer with Groupe Poncin Yachts and the Pin Rolland shipyard in Toulon. He also restored classic yachts, while applying his craftsmanship to unique projects for events and exhibitions.
Since 2018,
Dan has been devoted to his most ambitious endeavor:
the restoration of RHONA, a legendary 12mR yacht designed by William Fife in 1927. His perseverance, vision, and craftsmanship breathe new life into this icon of maritime heritage.
Philosophy:
To Captain Dan, classic yachts embody more than elegance – they represent timeless artistry and a philosophy of sailing that connects past and present.
Each detail tells a story, each plank resonates with tradition.
RHONA is not only restored to sail again but to serve as a living testament to maritime culture, an inspiration for sailors, and a stage for unforgettable encounters with the sea.
Since 2018,
Philosophy:
To Captain Dan, classic yachts embody more than elegance – they represent timeless artistry and a philosophy of sailing that connects past and present. Each detail tells a story, each plank resonates with tradition.
RHONA is not only restored to sail again but to serve as a living testament to maritime culture, an inspiration for sailors, and a stage for unforgettable encounters with the sea.
