Mr Nikolenko, how did the war affect you?
On the evening of 23 February 2022, we completed the construction of our new Lion 550, put up the new laminate sails and prepared for our first trip. A few hours later, war broke out. The whole of Ukraine was massively bombed, and a few days later the Russian forces began their attack on Mykolaiv. Rockets with 500 kilograms of explosives also destroyed yacht clubs and yachts there.
What was the situation like before that?
Ukraine has participated in international regattas. The country is home to yacht clubs and sailing schools, and numerous races take place on its waters. Mykolaiv is considered the capital of Ukrainian sailing and has the oldest yacht club in the country. It regularly organises large regattas with fields of up to one hundred boats. Several parts of the Ukrainian championships have also taken place in Mykolaiv.
Where do you sail?
Ukraine is rich in waterways, has navigable rivers and access to the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov. In the 30 years since independence, marinas have been built in almost every city on the water.
Are you continuing to work despite the war?
But yes! Although part of our team went to the front, we have set up a new production facility with modern machines in western Ukraine and want to launch the new Lion 650 this year, which has all the strengths of the 550 and a little more comfort.
Is there cross-border cooperation?
Yes, the L30, which was also tested by YACHT, is a Ukrainian-Slovenian co-production. And the Lion 550 is being built in Israel despite the war.
Where do you sell your construction plans?
We have partners on all continents and orders come from all over the world. We are also currently expanding our dealer network and working with boat builders and CNC milling companies. However, anyone can also purchase plans and cutting files and have our boats built in a company of their choice.
What makes plywood boats still attractive today?
The CNC machines have minimised the construction time. All parts can be produced in advance. The accuracy of fit makes building a puzzle.
Is there currently an active sailing scene in your area?
The area on the Dnipro River below Zaporizhia is currently part of the front line. However, there are still active sailing clubs in towns further away. However, many sailors are staying abroad, training there and taking part in regattas throughout Europe, with excellent results! Despite all the difficulties, Ukrainian sailing is alive and well and continues to develop.
What does the future hold for cruising sailors?
Ukraine is remarkably beautiful, has a rich history and an unrivalled cuisine. After the war, the country will happily welcome sailors, tourists and investors.
