In the annals of German yacht building, the name Atlanta Bootsbau, though its existence was tragically cut short, represents a vibrant, albeit brief, period of innovation and accessibility in sailing. Founded by the visionary Klaus Scheeberger, the company left a distinct mark on the marine industry, particularly through its popular small sailboats.
The Origin Story
Atlanta Bootsbau was founded in 1957 by Klaus Scheeberger. Situated in Weitnau, within the picturesque German province of Bavaria, Scheeberger embarked on his entrepreneurial journey with a clear vision. While details of his specific background are scarce, his immediate foray into boat design and construction suggests a deep passion for sailing and an innate understanding of naval architecture. His initial creations were a trio of boats collectively named "Koralle," signifying a fresh and perhaps foundational approach to boat building. These early vessels laid the groundwork for what would become some of the company's most recognized models.
History and Evolution
From its inception in 1957, Atlanta Bootsbau quickly established itself as a noteworthy builder of sailing yachts. The company's operations were based in Weitnau, Bavaria. The period of Atlanta Bootsbau's activity, from the late 1950s through the 1970s, coincided with a significant shift in boat building materials. While Klaus Scheeberger's early "Koralle" boats might have incorporated traditional materials, the industry was rapidly transitioning to fiberglass, offering durability, ease of maintenance, and efficiency in mass production. It is highly probable that Atlanta Bootsbau embraced this shift, utilizing fiberglass for the hulls of their popular models, even as some might have retained charming wood finishes on their topsides.
A notable corporate development was the establishment of "Atlanta Ireland Ltd.," an Irish subsidiary, indicating an ambition to expand beyond the German domestic market. However, the company's promising trajectory was abruptly halted by a profound tragedy. In the late 1970s, approximately 1975, Klaus Scheeberger was tragically killed in a plane crash. His untimely death proved to be an insurmountable blow, and Atlanta Bootsbau subsequently folded in 1978, bringing an end to its operations. Following his passing, his wife and children reportedly attempted to continue the business, but ultimately, the company went bankrupt around 1980.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Klaus Scheeberger himself was the principal designer for Atlanta Bootsbau. The company quickly gained a reputation for producing accessible and well-designed small sailboats. Their philosophy appeared to center on creating boats that offered a good balance of performance and manageability, appealing to a broad spectrum of sailors from day-sailors to those venturing on short coastal cruises. The "Koralle" series, in particular, exemplified this approach, being praised as "fun and fast" while remaining suitable for both children and adults.
While extensive details on specific patented technologies or revolutionary construction techniques are not widely documented, the enduring presence of some of their boats today speaks to a solid build quality for their time. The focus seems to have been on practical, enjoyable sailing rather than high-performance racing machines or opulent luxury yachts.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Among the various models produced by Atlanta Bootsbau, the Koralle stands out as its most iconic and successful. Designed by Klaus Scheeberger, the Koralle was a 13' 6" (4.1-meter) monohull sailboat produced between 1961 and 1978. It was known by various designations, including Koralle II and Koralle S6R. These boats featured a double swing keel, making them versatile and suitable for different water depths. Their popularity suggests they were relatively high-production vessels for a company of its size, becoming a common sight on European lakes and coastal waters.
Other models included the Atlanta 550ER (an 18.21 ft / 5.55 m boat) and the Atlanta 4.40. While less information is available on their specific impact, they further illustrate Atlanta Bootsbau's commitment to producing a range of compact sailing vessels. The company's legacy is primarily carried forward by these durable and well-loved small sailboats, many of which are still sailed today by enthusiasts who appreciate their simple charm and capable sailing characteristics.
The Builder's Legacy
Although Atlanta Bootsbau ceased operations in 1978, its legacy endures through the many sailboats that still ply waters around the world. The company's brief history serves as a testament to the vision of Klaus Scheeberger, who created a line of popular, accessible sailboats that brought the joy of sailing to many. Today, these vintage Atlanta boats are often cherished by their owners, contributing to a small but dedicated community of classic boat enthusiasts. Their continued presence on the water is a quiet tribute to a German boat builder whose journey, though tragically cut short, left a lasting ripple in the history of recreational sailing.
