In the annals of American yachting, Coastal Recreation Inc. carved out a significant, albeit relatively brief, chapter by democratizing sailboat ownership. Operating from its base in Costa Mesa, California, the company became known for producing a line of fiberglass sailboats that brought the joy of cruising to a wider audience.
The Origin and Evolution
Coastal Recreation Inc. commenced operations in 1968, establishing itself in the burgeoning fiberglass boatbuilding industry. For over a decade, the company focused on the design and manufacture of sailboats, quickly building a reputation for its "Balboa" and "Aquarius" lines. The firm's initial address was listed as 940 W. 17th Street, Costa Mesa, CA, USA.
A significant turning point in the company's history was its acquisition by Laguna Yachts. Following this, Coastal Recreation was often listed as a subsidiary of Laguna Yachts in many of its brochures, and its operations eventually moved to Laguna's facilities. Interestingly, Coastal Recreation Inc. also had its own subsidiary, RK Industries, an East Coast sailboat builder. The company remained in business until 1981, marking a 13-year period of active production before ceasing operations.
Design and Distinctive Character
Coastal Recreation Inc. distinguished itself by specializing in fiberglass sailboats. These vessels were primarily designed as cruisers, emphasizing a balance of performance and comfort for recreational sailors. The company notably collaborated with well-known naval architects, including Lyle C. Hess and Peter Barrett, to bring their designs to life. While specific signature construction techniques beyond their reliance on fiberglass are not widely detailed, their focus remained on producing practical and accessible sailboats for the recreational market.
The Iconic Fleet
The core of Coastal Recreation's legacy lies in its two primary series: the Balboa and Aquarius lines. These boats became synonymous with the brand and remain recognizable to classic sailboat enthusiasts today.
Among the notable models, the Aquarius 21 and the Balboa 22 stand out as popular examples of their cruiser offerings. The Aquarius 21 is even noted to share its design with the Balboa 21, indicating a consistency in their design philosophy across lines. These models, typically known for their moderate size and user-friendly characteristics, were well-suited for coastal cruising and day sailing, appealing to a wide range of recreational sailors.
A Lasting Legacy
Coastal Recreation Inc. concluded its boatbuilding journey in 1981. Despite its relatively short operational lifespan, the company left a tangible mark on the marine industry by contributing to the expansion of accessible fiberglass sailing. Their Balboa and Aquarius models, designed for cruising and ease of handling, introduced many to the joys of sailing and continue to be sought after in the used boat market by those looking for affordable and capable small cruisers. The enduring presence of these boats on waterways across the United States serves as a testament to Coastal Recreation Inc.'s commitment to bringing recreational boating within reach.
