Admiral Yachts was founded in 1999 in Cape Town, South Africa, by David Bird. Bird, as CEO, was instrumental in elevating the company to a prominent position among manufacturers of luxury catamarans. The company's vision from its inception was to produce high-quality cruising catamarans.
History and Evolution
From its establishment in 1999, Admiral Yachts quickly gained recognition for its commitment to building quality cruising catamarans. The company operated from its facility at Leopard Rock Park in Killarney Gardens, Cape Town. Admiral Yachts ceased operations in 2011. Following its closure, the molds for their catamaran designs were acquired by Celtic Yachts, another South African builder, indicating the enduring value of Admiral's designs.
It's important to note that while there is an Italian superyacht builder also named "Admiral Yachts" with a much longer history and a focus on luxury motor yachts, this article focuses specifically on the South African Admiral Yachts that specialized in catamarans from 1999 to 2011.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Admiral Yachts carved out a reputation for producing high-quality cruising catamarans, appealing to those seeking comfortable and capable multihulls for extended voyages. Their identity was rooted in offering exclusive luxury cruising yachts and catamarans designed for the blue water cruising market.
A key collaborator in their design efforts was the renowned naval architect Angelo Lavranos. Admiral Yachts became known for building Lavranos-designed catamarans, which were integral to their product line. This collaboration underscored their commitment to well-engineered and capable sailing vessels.
Iconic Models and Legacy
While production numbers are not readily available, Admiral Yachts produced several significant models during its operational years. Among their most recognized designs were the Lavranos-designed Admiral 38 and Admiral 50-foot cruising catamarans. These models exemplified the company's focus on comfortable, robust, and performance-oriented cruising catamarans, which were well-suited for the challenging conditions of global cruising. Their focus on the catamaran market helped to solidify South Africa's growing reputation as a hub for quality multihull construction.
The Builder Today
Admiral Yachts (South Africa) is no longer in business, having ceased operations in 2011. The company's physical address, 74 Leopard Rock Park, Killarney Ave, Killarney Gardens, Cape Town, South Africa, marks its former home. Despite its relatively short operational period from 1999 to 2011, Admiral Yachts contributed to the development of the South African boatbuilding industry, particularly in the catamaran sector. The acquisition of their molds by Celtic Yachts ensures that the legacy of their designs continues to live on in new builds, serving modern sailors who appreciate the heritage of well-designed cruising catamarans.
