Allmand Boats Inc. was founded by John Allmand, a figure who established his legacy in the marine industry from Hialeah, Florida. While some records suggest an earlier inception in 1962, Allmand Boats Inc. as it's most commonly recognized, began its operations in 1965, setting up shop at 6969 West 20th Avenue in Hialeah. John Allmand brought modern technology to the local boat building scene, focusing on creating quality vessels. Initially, the company primarily produced powerboats, gaining a reputation for their robust construction.
History and Evolution
From its inception in the mid-1960s, Allmand Boats Inc. quickly expanded its production capabilities. By 1963, even before the widely cited 1965 start date for the main company, the precursor to Allmand Boats had moved to a new plant in Hialeah, boosting production to five boats a week and expanding its line to eight models. The company embraced fiberglass construction, a material that revolutionized boat building in the latter half of the 20th century, offering durability and reduced maintenance compared to traditional wood.
A significant shift in the company's direction occurred in 1977 when John Allmand's brother, Tom Allmand, joined the firm. Tom's influence led to the introduction of several new sailboat designs, ranging from 23 to 35 feet. This expansion into the sailboat market allowed Allmand Boats to become a leader in both power and sail vessel production. After John Allmand's death, Tom assumed control of the company, continuing the legacy. Despite its contributions to the industry, Allmand Boats Inc. ceased operations in 1985.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Allmand Boats earned a reputation for building sturdy and well-constructed vessels. In the powerboat sector, they were known for a range of designs including cruisers, sport fishing boats, and notable "trailerable flybridge boats" which were considered quite large for their time and offered substantial cabin space on a trailerable platform. They also produced rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) and saltwater fishing boats. Vintage print advertisements from the early 1970s reveal models like the Allmand Convertible Eagle 40' Trawler, highlighting their diverse powerboat offerings.
When the company ventured into sailboats, it maintained its focus on producing cruisers designed for comfortable living and sailing. For these sailboat lines, Allmand collaborated with naval architects such as Walter Scott, who designed popular models like the Allmand 31 and Allmand 35. These sailboats, characterized by their fiberglass monohull construction, were often described as heavy-displacement vessels, built for cruising rather than racing. While some models, like the Allmand 31, were noted for not sailing exceptionally close to the wind due to their shoal keel, they were valued as cruisers.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Among Allmand's most recognized sailboat models are the Allmand 31 and the Allmand 35. The Allmand 31, designed by Walter Scott and first built in 1978, was conceived as a cruiser and featured a tri-cabin layout in some variations, offering ample interior volume for its length. The Allmand 35, also designed by Walter Scott, was a heavy-displacement masthead sloop, reflecting the company's commitment to robust cruising yachts. These sailboats, along with their powerboat predecessors, solidified Allmand's place as a builder of practical and durable fiberglass boats. Many classic Allmand boats built during their operational years are still in use today, a testament to their build quality.
The Builder's Enduring Legacy
Allmand Boats Inc., the original company founded by John Allmand in Hialeah, Florida, is no longer in business, having closed its doors in 1985. The legacy of the original Allmand Boats Inc. rests on the durable fiberglass powerboats and sailboats it produced during its two decades of operation. These boats are still found on the used market, often appreciated by owners for their solid construction and seaworthiness.
It is important to note that while the original Allmand Boats Inc. is defunct, the "Allmand Boats" name has been used by other entities in more recent times, with some sources mentioning a "Todd Allmand" leading a newer venture focused on different types of boats, including rigid inflatable boats and commercial fishing vessels. However, these modern endeavors are distinct from the historical Allmand Boats Inc. that operated from 1965 to 1985. The original company's impact lies in its contribution to the fiberglass boating boom, providing accessible and robust vessels for American boaters.
