As a leading voice in yachting history, it is with great pleasure that we delve into the remarkable story of Butler Mouldings Ltd., a British boat builder that, despite a relatively short production run, left an indelible mark on the world of GRP sailing yachts, particularly through its iconic Achilles range.
Butler Mouldings Ltd. was founded by Chris Butler in 1957, though his experience with glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) dates back to 1954, when the company initially specialized in manufacturing GRP motorcycle parts and accessories. Chris Butler, along with Georgina Butler, laid the groundwork for a company that would soon pivot to marine craft. Driven by innovation and a keen eye for the potential of fiberglass, the company began building GRP dinghies in the 1960s. This early foray into marine construction set the stage for their most famous line of yachts: the Achilles cruisers.
History and Evolution
The transition into yacht building proper came to fruition around 1968 with the launch of the Achilles 24, a boat that would become a cornerstone of the company's legacy. The success of the Achilles 24 quickly necessitated a move from Hackney, East London, to larger premises in Swansea, South Wales, around 1970 to cope with the burgeoning demand. Over time, Butler Mouldings produced more than 1500 boats across its various Achilles models. Production of Achilles yachts continued until approximately 1989 or 1990, when Chris Butler's interests shifted towards producing submersible craft for the oil rig industry, leading to the eventual closure of the boat building division as he retired.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Butler Mouldings, through its Achilles brand, cultivated a strong reputation in the sailing world for producing "fast cruiser-racer" yachts. These boats were celebrated for striking an excellent balance between sailing performance and comfortable accommodation, making them suitable for both competitive racing and leisurely cruising. The company's commitment to quality was paramount, with the Achilles range known for its robust build and inherent safety.
A key figure in the design ethos was Chris Butler himself, who, after an initial collaboration, took the reins for later models. The seminal Achilles 24 was initially conceived by Oliver Lee as a cruising variant of his Ajax racing keelboat, with Chris Butler developing the design further. However, subsequent popular models, such as the Achilles 9 metre and the Achilles 840, were designed by Chris Butler "from a clean sheet of paper," demonstrating his evolving vision and expertise in naval architecture.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The Achilles range comprises several significant models that remain highly regarded in the pre-owned boat market today.
- Achilles 24: Undoubtedly the most iconic and successful model, the Achilles 24 was first built in 1968. Over 600 units of this specific model were produced, making it a widespread and beloved yacht. Its design as a cruiser-racer allowed it to excel in performance while offering practical living spaces, a testament to the collaboration between Oliver Lee and Chris Butler. Many remain actively sailed today, participating in club races and cruising.
- Achilles 840: Launched in 1979, the 840 was designed by Chris Butler. It proved to be a reasonably successful distance competitor, participating in demanding races like the AZAB, Fastnet, and OSTAR. This model solidified the brand's reputation for tough, offshore-capable cruisers.
- Achilles 9 metre: Also designed by Chris Butler, the 9 metre was specifically conceived for long-distance, short-handed cruising, offering more substantial accommodation than its smaller siblings.
Other notable models in the range included the Achilles 7m, Achilles 7.5m, and the Sparta. The entire Achilles family of yachts is recognized for its strong pedigree, unquestionable build quality, and safety, cementing their place as well-loved and enduring vessels.
The Builder Today
While Butler Mouldings Ltd. ceased boat production around 1990 with Chris Butler's retirement and shift in business focus, the legacy of the Achilles yachts lives on through a dedicated and passionate owner community. The Achilles Yacht Owners Association (achillesyachts.co.uk) serves as a vibrant hub for enthusiasts, providing a platform for owners to connect, share knowledge, and maintain their beloved vessels. This strong community ensures that the spirit of these well-built, capable cruiser-racers continues to thrive on waters worldwide, a testament to Chris Butler's vision and the enduring quality of his creations.
