As a distinguished name in the world of yachting, Cornish Crabbers has carved out a unique niche, celebrated for its distinctive gaff-rigged sailing yachts that seamlessly blend traditional aesthetics with modern construction. From its humble beginnings in Cornwall to its enduring legacy, the company has consistently delivered boats that captivate sailors with their timeless appeal and capable performance.
The story of Cornish Crabbers began in 1974, rooted in the vision of three key individuals: designer Roger Dongray, Peter Keeling, and Ken Robertson. Roger Dongray, a naval architect with a passion for classic lines, initially conceived the first Cornish Crabber as a 22-foot (6.7m) gaff-rigged cutter. His original design was crafted from marine plywood, intended for his personal use. However, Peter Keeling recognized the broader appeal of Dongray's creation. The initial boats were produced under the Westerly Boats brand, based in Rock, Cornwall, laying the foundation for what would become an iconic boat-building company. This marked the birth of a brand dedicated to bringing the charm and practicality of traditional Cornish working boats to a wider sailing audience.
History and Evolution
From its initial plywood constructions, Cornish Crabbers swiftly embraced more contemporary materials. The transition to fiberglass allowed for series production, making these traditionally styled boats accessible to a broader market. The Cornish Crabber 24 Mk1, introduced in the early 1980s, stands out as one of the most iconic early fiberglass models.
A pivotal moment in the company's history came with the design of the Cornish Shrimper. Roger Dongray designed the first Shrimper in 1979, initially building it in wood, aiming for a sturdy boat capable of handling British weather. The success of this prototype led to its production in fiberglass, with the first production Cornish Shrimper (No. 11) being launched in May 1980. The Shrimper quickly became, and remains, the most popular model in the range.
More recently, Cornish Crabbers faced a period of uncertainty when it entered voluntary liquidation. However, the brand's enduring appeal and strong following ensured its survival. In a significant development, a team led by Ben Walker of Blue Lagoon Marine acquired the Cornish Crabbers brand, ensuring that production would continue in its native Cornwall. This acquisition marked a new chapter, promising to uphold the legacy while embracing the future.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Cornish Crabbers has cultivated a distinct reputation in the sailing world for building "modern classics"—boats that evoke the spirit of traditional working vessels, particularly the gaff-rigged boats historically seen in the West Country, but built with modern techniques and materials. The company is renowned for its commitment to the gaff rig, a defining characteristic across much of its range.
The heart of Cornish Crabbers' design philosophy lies with Roger Dongray. His designs are celebrated for their robustness and seaworthiness, making them well-suited to the often-challenging conditions of British waters. Beyond their classic appearance, these boats are known for their practical features, such as lifting keels, which allow access to shallow waters and make them ideal for exploring creeks and estuaries, as well as enabling easier trailering. The brand's identity is synonymous with comfortable, forgiving cruisers that offer a unique blend of nostalgia and user-friendliness, appealing to those who seek a more connected and authentic sailing experience.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Throughout its history, Cornish Crabbers has produced a line-up of truly iconic boats, each contributing to its lasting legacy.
The Cornish Crabber 24 was one of the earliest flagships, establishing the brand's commitment to the gaff-rigged cruiser concept. It showcased the potential for a traditionally styled boat to offer comfortable cruising capabilities.
However, it is arguably the Cornish Shrimper 19 that has become the most enduring and beloved model. Inspired by traditional shrimp fishery boats, the Shrimper 19 is a classically styled, trailerable sailboat designed for ease of handling and robustness. Its widespread appeal is evident in its long production run and significant numbers on the water, cementing its status as the most popular model within the Cornish Crabbers range.
Beyond these two stalwarts, the company has offered a variety of sizes and configurations, including the Shrimper 17, Shrimper 21, Shrimper 22, and larger models such as the Cornish Crabber 26 and the Pilot Cutter 30. Roger Dongray's design influence also extended beyond the core Crabber line, notably with the Golant Gaffer/Ketch, further showcasing his talent for crafting beautiful and practical traditional designs. While some lines, like the Mystery range, have been suspended, the core offerings continue to celebrate the brand's heritage.
The Builder Today
Today, Cornish Crabbers operates under new ownership, led by Ben Walker and his team from Blue Lagoon Marine, ensuring the continuation of this esteemed British boat builder. Production continues from the company's Cornish base, upholding the local craftsmanship and heritage.
The modern Cornish Crabbers continue to appeal to a distinct segment of the sailing market: those who value classic aesthetics, robust build quality, and a unique, engaging sailing experience over cutting-edge performance. The boats are known for their strong reputation and customer satisfaction. A testament to the brand's enduring appeal is the vibrant and dedicated owner community. The Cornish Crabbers Club and the Shrimper Owners Association are active groups that provide a platform for owners to connect, share experiences, and offer invaluable feedback to the builder, demonstrating the strong loyalty and passion surrounding these beloved boats. This passionate community is a core part of the Cornish Crabbers ownership experience, fostering a sense of camaraderie that is as enduring as the boats themselves.
