Cobra Yachts: A Brief but Influential UK Legacy
The annals of British yacht building are rich with stories of innovation, craftsmanship, and a deep-seated passion for the sea. Among these, the tale of Cobra Yachts, though relatively brief, stands as a testament to efficient design and robust construction that brought sailing to a wider audience. Founded by John Rockwood, this UK-based shipyard left an indelible mark on the cruising yacht market during its operational years from 1975 to 1982.
Cobra Yachts was established in the United Kingdom by John Rockwood in 1975. While specific details about Rockwood's background or the precise vision that spurred the company's inception are not widely documented, the yachts produced by Cobra suggest a focus on creating practical, family-friendly cruisers that offered both comfort and reliable performance. The company quickly carved out a niche for accessible and well-built sailing vessels.
History and Evolution
Operating for just seven years, Cobra Yachts' history is encapsulated within a concentrated period of fiberglass boat building. The company's primary focus was on producing a range of GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) yachts, a material that had by then become standard for efficient mass production, offering durability and reduced maintenance compared to traditional timber construction. While major corporate changes or transitions to new materials beyond fiberglass were not a feature of its short lifespan, Cobra Yachts rapidly developed a reputation for solid, dependable cruising boats. The reasons for the company's closure in 1982 are not explicitly detailed in available records, but its impact on the market during its active years was significant.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Cobra Yachts quickly became known for producing stable, spacious, and well-mannered family cruisers. Their design philosophy centered on creating practical and forgiving boats suitable for coastal sailing and leisure. The yachts were generally regarded as "steady, sedate and spacious, but slightly sporty" in their handling characteristics. This reputation made them particularly appealing to new and experienced cruisers alike, seeking reliable vessels for weekend trips and extended holidays.
A key figure in the design success of Cobra Yachts was naval architect David Feltham. He was responsible for designing many of the shipyard's most popular models, including the Cobra 700, Cobra 750, Cobra 850, and Cobra 1050. Feltham's designs contributed significantly to the brand's identity as a builder of practical and capable sailing yachts.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Despite its relatively short existence, Cobra Yachts produced several highly successful and iconic models that remain popular on the used boat market today.
One of the most significant models was the Cobra 850. With approximately 700 units built, it was a highly successful coastal cruiser known for its robust construction and comfortable interior. The Cobra 850 was often described as being "steady, sedate and spacious," yet retaining a "slightly sporty" feel, making it an excellent choice for family cruising.
Another notable model was the Cobra 750. This versatile cruiser was predominantly produced with twin keels, a popular configuration in the UK for accessing shallow waters and drying out, though a fin keel version was also available. The Cobra 750 gained a reputation as a "roomy, stable and well-mannered family cruiser," making it a popular choice for those seeking a reliable starter yacht or a comfortable coastal vessel.
Other models in their range included the Cobra 700 and the larger Cobra 1050, all designed by David Feltham, further solidifying the company's reputation for producing a consistent line of practical cruising yachts. While Cobra Yachts did not engage in high-profile special projects like America's Cup campaigns, its legacy lies in bringing well-designed and affordable cruising yachts to a broad market.
The Builder Today
Cobra Yachts (UK), as founded by John Rockwood, ceased operations in 1982. The brand name "Cobra Yachts" has since been used by other entities in different countries, notably a Polish shipyard founded in 2003 that specializes in motor yachts and a Turkish shipyard also founded in 2003 that builds superyachts and motor yachts. However, these are distinct from the original UK builder.
The true legacy of the original Cobra Yachts lies in the hundreds of vessels they produced that continue to ply the waters today. These enduring fiberglass cruisers are a testament to the quality of their original construction. A strong community of owners exists, exemplified by associations like the Cobra and Seawolf Owners Association, which helps preserve the history and facilitates support for these classic British yachts. Owners of these boats typically value their solid build, reliable performance, and the comfortable, spacious interiors that make them ideal for leisurely cruising. The ownership experience is often characterized by a shared appreciation for these hardy and dependable sailing boats.
