For over 150 years, Cheoy Lee Shipyard has stood as a beacon of craftsmanship and innovation in the global marine industry. Owned and operated by the same family across five generations, this venerable builder has evolved from its humble beginnings in Shanghai to become a world-renowned name in custom superyachts and high-quality production vessels.
The Origin Story
Cheoy Lee Shipyard's remarkable journey began in 1870, established by the Lo family on the Pudong Peninsula in Shanghai, then known as Po Tung Point. Initially, the yard focused on building and repairing steam-powered craft, laying the groundwork for a legacy rooted in robust and reliable vessels. The business maintained its operations in Shanghai until 1936, when the family strategically relocated the shipyard to what was then the British territory of Hong Kong.
History and Evolution
The move to Hong Kong marked a pivotal moment, with Cheoy Lee establishing its operations at Penny's Bay on Lantau Island, a site it would occupy from 1964 to 2001. By the mid-1950s, the shipyard diversified its portfolio, venturing into the production of elegant teak sailing and motor yachts. The success of this new pleasure craft division was swift, and by the mid-1960s, pleasure boats constituted the majority of the company’s output, with a significant number being exported to the United States.
The 1960s also saw Cheoy Lee emerge as a true pioneer in marine construction. The shipyard was among the first to develop, test, and extensively utilize fiberglass as a boatbuilding material. Furthermore, it became a forerunner in the innovative application of GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) and foam sandwich technology in the marine field, recognizing its advantages in weight savings, strength, and longevity. This pioneering spirit culminated in 1977 with the construction of the 130-foot motorsailer, Shango II, which, at the time, was the world's largest molded fiberglass yacht.
As the marine industry shifted, so did Cheoy Lee. In 1990, the shipyard largely ceased building sailing yachts, focusing instead on the burgeoning market for larger motor yachts and commercial vessels. This strategic pivot necessitated expansion, leading to the company's move in 1999 to a new, purpose-built, state-of-the-art shipyard facility: the Hin Lee Shipyard in Zhuhai, located on the Pearl River in mainland China.
Design Philosophy and Esteemed Collaborations
Cheoy Lee has cultivated a sterling reputation in the marine world, known for its unwavering commitment to dependable products, innovative design, and exceptional craftsmanship across various vessel types. The builder is recognized for its robust, finely crafted, and globally capable motor yachts, alongside its sophisticated series-built fiberglass models. Cheoy Lee consistently invests in research and advanced production techniques, focusing on modern design and construction, including composite materials, to enhance the cruising experience.
Throughout its history, Cheoy Lee has collaborated with a remarkable roster of internationally renowned naval architects and designers, ensuring a diverse and high-caliber portfolio. Key design partners have included:
- A.E. Bill Luders Jr.: Known for popular sailing models such as the Luders 36 and the Clipper series (33', 36', 42', 48'), as well as the Offshore 47.
- Arthur Robb: Responsible for iconic designs like the Robb 35.
- John Alden: Associated with the Alden 32 Motorsailor.
- Pieter Beeldsnijder: Designer of models like the Motorsailor/Trawler 52 and Golden Wave 48.
- Tom Fexas: Renowned for his outstanding hull designs, particularly for motor yachts.
- Maury DeClercq: Contributed to designs like the Offshore 36.
- Robert Allan Ltd: A collaboration primarily for commercial vessel designs, showcasing Cheoy Lee's diverse capabilities.
- Mike Burvenich: Designer of models such as the Bravo 84 and the new 88-foot model.
- Nick Boksa (Boksa Marine Design): Contributes to Cheoy Lee's modern motor yacht designs, including the Explorer series.
Iconic Models and Lasting Legacy
Cheoy Lee's extensive production history boasts over 5,100 vessels launched, spanning a wide array of types and sizes. While the 130-foot Shango II motorsailer stands out as a significant engineering achievement, the shipyard's legacy is built upon numerous highly regarded models across both sail and power.
In its sailing yacht era, the "Offshore" series, including models like the Offshore 36, 40, 47, and 53, became particularly popular, alongside the Luders 36, Robb 35, and the elegant Clipper series. The Frisco Flyer, a 26-foot fiberglass sailboat, also held a special place among enthusiasts. These vessels were celebrated for their robust construction and seaworthiness, traits that continue to define the Cheoy Lee brand.
In the modern era, Cheoy Lee is renowned for its custom superyachts and its distinct CL Yachts fiberglass series. The shipyard offers diverse lines, from explorer yachts designed for global cruising to sophisticated series-built fiberglass models like the CLX and CL Yachts “A” lineup, including a 76-foot model. The shipyard's focus on innovative design and performance ensures that its current fleet continues its tradition of excellence.
The Builder Today
Today, Cheoy Lee Shipyard remains under the dedicated stewardship of the Lo family, with fifth-generation members actively involved in its operations. The company’s primary production facility is the state-of-the-art Hin Lee Shipyard in Zhuhai, mainland China, located approximately 45 miles west of Hong Kong.
Cheoy Lee continues to focus on two distinct market segments: fully custom superyachts under the Cheoy Lee Yachts brand and series-built fiberglass motor yachts under its sister brand, CL Yachts. The custom superyachts are a testament to the shipyard's deep heritage and ability to deliver bespoke, high-quality vessels, appealing to discerning owners who value robust construction and timeless design. The CL Yachts line, with models such as the CLX and the Explorer series, blends the shipyard's robust DNA with contemporary aesthetics, appealing to a newer generation of yacht owners. Cheoy Lee's enduring commitment to quality, innovation, and its family legacy ensures its continued prominence in the luxury yacht market.
