For decades, Com-Pac Yachts, an integral part of the Hutchins Company, has been a distinctive presence in the marine industry, carving out a niche for building robust, high-quality, and eminently trailerable sailboats. While the company recently concluded its operations, its impact on making sailing accessible and enjoyable for a broad range of enthusiasts remains a significant chapter in yachting history.
The Origin Story
The story of Com-Pac Yachts begins with the Hutchins Company, a family-owned and operated corporation founded in 1957 by W.L. Hutchins Sr., affectionately known as "Hutch" to his peers. While the Hutchins Company initially focused on other ventures, their foray into sailboat manufacturing commenced in 1974.
Their inaugural vessel, the Com-Pac 16, debuted in either 1972 or 1974, with 1974 being consistently cited as the start of their boat-building business. Designed by the notable naval architect Clark Mills, the vision behind the Com-Pac 16 was to create a seaworthy yacht that offered exceptional value. Mills, often referred to as "one of the unsung heroes of the yacht design world," laid the groundwork for the brand's enduring reputation.
History and Evolution
From its humble beginnings, Com-Pac Yachts grew under the continuous stewardship of the Hutchins family. W.L. Hutchins Sr.'s sons, Gerry and Richard Hutchins, later took the helm, ensuring the company remained a family enterprise throughout its existence. The company maintained its headquarters in Clearwater, Florida, where its boats were meticulously crafted.
The transition to fiberglass, a material that became standard for sailboat construction during their operational years, allowed Com-Pac to produce durable and low-maintenance vessels. While no specific milestone marks this transition, their entire production line consisted of fiberglass sailboats, suitable for daysailing or comfortable weekend cruising. The company's focus remained steadfast on practical, high-quality small to mid-sized cruising sailboats, resisting the trend towards ever-larger yachts.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Com-Pac Yachts earned a stellar reputation in the sailing world for producing vessels that were both seaworthy and offered excellent value. Their core design philosophy centered on creating "simple, easy-to-launch, easy-to-sail, low-cost sailboats." This approach appealed to a wide audience, particularly those seeking the convenience of trailerability without compromising on quality or the genuine sailing experience.
A hallmark of Com-Pac's innovation was their proprietary Mastendr™ system, a quick-rigging solution that significantly simplified the process of stepping and unstepping the mast, making their trailerable boats even more convenient for owners. Coupled with robust stainless-steel centerboards, these features underscored the brand's commitment to user-friendliness and durability.
Beyond Clark Mills, Com-Pac Yachts collaborated with other talented naval architects, including Robert K. Johnson, who designed the Com-Pac 19, and the in-house Hutchins Group responsible for models like the Com-Pac 25. This collaborative design approach, combined with the company's dedication to quality construction, ensured that each Com-Pac yacht embodied a blend of thoughtful design and practical functionality.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Throughout its history, Com-Pac Yachts produced a range of significant and successful models that became beloved by owners. The Com-Pac 16, as their first boat, holds a special place, embodying the brand's foundational principles of seaworthiness and value. Other highly regarded and popular models included the Com-Pac 23, the versatile Com-Pac 17 Suncat, the Com-Pac 25, and the Com-Pac 27-2, as well as the Com-Pac Legacy.
The company offered diverse lines, encompassing six cat-rigged sailboats, five sloop-rigged sailboats, and even a power launch. Their sailboat offerings ranged in size from a compact 14-foot daysailer to a more substantial 35-foot bluewater sailing cruiser, catering to various sailing aspirations while maintaining the brand's core ethos of quality and ease of use. While Com-Pac Yachts did not engage in high-profile special projects like America's Cup boats, their consistent production of reliable and accessible cruising yachts created a strong and loyal owner community.
The Builder Today
After decades as a cornerstone of accessible sailing, Com-Pac Yachts/Hutchins Co. officially closed its doors on May 1, 2025. This decision followed the passing of Gerry Hutchins and the retirement of Richard Hutchins, marking the end of an era for the family-owned and operated business.
Despite its closure, the legacy of Com-Pac Yachts endures. Their boats appealed to sailors who valued simplicity, ease of launch and retrieval, and the ability to trailer their vessels, thereby often avoiding costly slip rental fees. The commitment to building durable, high-quality fiberglass sailboats meant that Com-Pac vessels are still highly sought after on the used boat market. The strong community of Com-Pac owners continues to celebrate and maintain these cherished boats, ensuring that the spirit of accessible sailing championed by the Hutchins Company lives on.
