About Us

About Dotan

Dotan Maritime Enterprise (DME) is a Latvian sailing-tech company founded in 1992 by Dr Leonid Chernin, maritime engineer (PhD) and active sailor. Since day one, we’ve been dedicated to developing and producing innovative kick-up rudder systems for dinghies and catamarans — improving performance, safety, and ease of handling.

Our rudders are known for their patented kick-up mechanism — no ropes, no springs, no rubber bands — and have earned a reputation for durability and simplicity across generations of sailors.

Over the past 30+ years, we’ve delivered to more than 50 countries — from New Zealand to Norway. Many customers return to us after 15–20 years for spare parts or replacements — a clear sign of long-term trust and product longevity.

Milestones

• 2025 — Launched new catamaran rudder set with eco‑friendly packaging and compact shipping design.

• 2023 — Introduced budget plywood rudder blades for Optimist — ideal for sailing schools and training centers.

• 2019 — Developed high-performance Optimist daggerboard & rudder combo for youth sailing.

• 2012 — Dotan rudders now used in over 50 countries worldwide.

• 2009 — Received the Latvian Ministry of Economics “Export and Innovation Award.”

• 1997–2003 — Granted multiple international patents for our unique kick-up system.

• 1992 — Company founded and first prototype rudder created.

At Dotan, we combine academic engineering with real-world sailing experience.
Our mission is simple:
To help sailors enjoy the water with smart, reliable, and long‑lasting equipment.