The name Barberis resonates within the annals of Italian yachting, representing a significant period of innovation and design that left an indelible mark on recreational sailing. Emerging from the vibrant maritime traditions of La Spezia, Cantieri Barberis became synonymous with elegant, performance-oriented fiberglass yachts that captured the spirit of an era.
The roots of the Barberis name in Italian boatbuilding stretch back to 1931, when Giuseppe Barberis founded the Barberis Shipyard (Cantiere Nautico Barberis) in La Spezia. Initially, the yard focused on traditional boatbuilding, producing rowing boats and later expanding into motorboats for both leisure and racing. This early foundation laid the groundwork for a family deeply immersed in marine craftsmanship, with a history of wooden boat restoration, including iconic Riva models, dating back to 1929.
It was Giancarlo Barberis who later took the helm, establishing and directing the "Cantieri Barberis" that would become celebrated for its sailing yachts. Giancarlo Barberis, a prominent figure in the Italian yachting scene, even authored a book, "I Cantieri Barberis. Una storia italiana," chronicling the shipyard's journey and its contributions to the marine industry.
History and Evolution
Cantieri Barberis reached its zenith of activity and reputation during the 1970s and 1980s, a period often described as their golden age. During these two decades, the shipyard played a crucial role in exporting "Italian naval art" to the international market, helping to define modern recreational boating. This era saw a significant transition in boat construction, with Barberis embracing fiberglass as the primary material for its sailing yachts, a move that allowed for mass production while maintaining high standards of design and finish. While a specific cessation date for new sailboat production is not clearly defined in available records, their peak influence as a new sailboat builder appears to have waned after the 1980s, marking their legacy in the classic boat era.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Barberis yachts earned a reputation for their aesthetic appeal and sailing capabilities, described as producing some of the "most beautiful" motor and sailboats of their time. Their design philosophy often blended performance characteristics with comfortable cruising amenities, creating versatile yachts that appealed to both racers and cruising families. This balance was achieved through collaborations with renowned naval architects and designers.
Key figures who shaped the Barberis aesthetic include Delio Barberis (who notably co-designed the Show 27 with Lanfranco Soma), Lanfranco Soma, Alain Jezequel, and Andrea Vallicelli. These collaborations resulted in boats known for their clean lines, well-thought-out interiors, and robust construction, which were fundamental to Barberis's identity as a builder of quality performance cruisers.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The most recognizable and successful models produced by Cantieri Barberis belong to their highly popular "SHOW" series. This range included celebrated yachts such as the Show 24, Show 27, Show 29, Show 34, and Show 36. These models, known for their performance and comfortable layouts, were instrumental in establishing Barberis's presence in the sailboat market.
Beyond the "SHOW" series, other notable designs included the Barberis 331, Barberis 36, Barberis 51.1 (also referred to as 511), Finot 51, Schnaps 31, and the Sciacchetrà. The Sciacchetrà holds particular significance, being prominently featured in the title of Giancarlo Barberis's book, "Dallo Sciacchetrà alla Coppa America" (From the Sciacchetrà to the America's Cup). This title, coupled with Giancarlo Barberis's interviews related to the 1983 America's Cup, suggests a strong ambition and perhaps direct involvement or influence in Italy's prestigious America's Cup challenges, showcasing the shipyard's aspiration for the pinnacle of sailing performance.
The Builder Today
While the Cantieri Barberis, known for its prolific fiberglass sailboat production of the 1970s and 1980s, is no longer building new sailing yachts in the same capacity, its legacy as a pivotal Italian builder endures. The Barberis name continues in the marine industry, with a separate but related "Cantiere Barberis" in La Spezia focusing on the restoration of classic wooden boats, particularly Riva yachts, a tradition that predates the fiberglass sailboat boom.
The impact of Cantieri Barberis on the marine industry is clear: they helped popularize fiberglass cruising and racing yachts in Italy and beyond, contributing significantly to the development of modern recreational sailing. Their boats remain sought-after classics in the used boat market, cherished by owners who appreciate their timeless design, solid construction, and engaging sailing characteristics. The strong presence of Barberis boats in second-hand markets worldwide is a testament to their enduring quality and the lasting appeal of a brand that truly made sailing history.
