Doyle Sails is thrilled to welcome Aurélien Hays and Marlène Nietupski to the Doyle Sails global network with the launch of Doyle Sails Panama, strengthening support for cruising and performance yachts transiting one of the world’s most important maritime gateways.
Strategically located at the crossroads of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, Panama is a key stop for sailors undertaking global voyages. From Caribbean cruisers preparing to transit the Panama Canal to yachts arriving from Pacific crossings, the new Doyle Sails presence will provide expert sailmaking and rigging support for vessels travelling through the region.
Emma Hendy, Chief Commercial Officer of Doyle Sails, said the addition reflects the company’s commitment to supporting our customers.
“Doyle Sails is continuing to support our customers wherever their adventures take them, and the Panama Canal is a huge gateway for adventure seekers, cruising yachts and superyachts. This is a great opportunity for Doyle Sails, and we are excited to have Aurélien and Marlène join our team.”
Aurélien brings more than 15 years of experience as a captain on the Mediterranean maxi racing circuit during the summer seasons. During the winter months, he spent over 15 years training and working at the Delta Voiles Antibes sailmaking workshop, building deep technical knowledge in sail construction and performance.
Passionate about meteorology and physics, Aurélien later returned to university to further develop his expertise in sail design and navigation routing.
Marlène, originally trained as a sociologist and ethnologist, transformed her lifelong passion for the ocean into a profession 15 years ago when she became a professional diver. She later expanded her skills into underwater photography and obtained her sailor’s certificate, combining seamanship with a strong connection to the marine environment.
Together, the pair have pursued their own sailing adventures—crossing the Atlantic together before Aurélien completed a solo Pacific crossing. With those experiences behind them, they chose to settle in Panama, the natural link between the two great oceans.
From their base on the Caribbean coast, Doyle Sails Panama will serve both sides of the isthmus. As the only sailmaker-designers currently based in Panama, Aurélien and Marlène offer a unique level of expertise in the region, alongside custom rigging services and the only swaging machine in Panama.
“Panama is a crossroads for sailors from all over the world,” said Aurélien. “Whether they are preparing to cross the Pacific or arriving after long offshore passages, sailors need reliable technical support. Joining the Doyle Sails network allows us to combine our local presence with the global design and performance expertise Doyle is known for.”
Marlène added that the new venture reflects their shared passion for supporting sailors and the cruising community.
“The sea has always been at the centre of our lives. From diving and sailing to long ocean crossings, we understand the needs of sailors undertaking big adventures. Being part of Doyle Sails allows us to offer world-class sails and service to boats passing through this unique region.”
Doyle Sails Panama further expands the Doyle Sails global network, continuing the company’s mission to support sailors wherever their journeys take them.
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ABOUT DOYLE SAILS // Doyle Sails strives to deliver success through high-performance, high-quality, custom sails that continue to redefine the boundaries of sailmaking technology and innovation; whilst connecting sailors to inspire, support and encourage sailing.
Our obsession with sailing takes us to every corner of the world and onboard every yacht. We become part of teams, share in the adventures of friends and families, sharing our knowledge and experience with those with the same passion. Sailing is in our DNA, and we are the custodians of a legacy that has been supporting sailors for four decades and counting.