From the rugged coastlines of British Columbia emerged Dekleer Brothers Industries Ltd., a yacht builder that carved out a respected niche in the marine industry. Known for their no-nonsense, heavy-duty fiberglass cruising sailboats, the Richmond, BC-based company left a lasting legacy, particularly through their popular Fraser series and their unique approach to boat sales.
The Origin Story
Dekleer Brothers Industries Ltd. was founded in 1966 in Richmond, British Columbia. The company was the brainchild of brothers Arie and Len De Kleer, who grew up in Holland. Their background and a growing need for a larger family boat spurred Len De Kleer to design their inaugural fiberglass vessel, the Fraser 30. This first boat, launched in 1970, laid the groundwork for the company's reputation for building robust and capable cruising sailboats.
History and Evolution
Dekleer Brothers quickly established itself as a builder of resilient fiberglass sailboats, a material choice that aligned with their vision for durable cruising vessels. A distinctive aspect of their business model was the sale of boats primarily as kits, with the final finishing often undertaken by other yards or even the owners themselves. This approach likely offered flexibility and cost-effectiveness for purchasers, contributing to the widespread appeal of their designs.
The company's focus remained on creating yachts capable of handling the demanding conditions of open water, earning them a reputation as builders of "heavy duty fiberglass cruising sailboats." This commitment to strength and reliability became a hallmark of the Dekleer brand throughout its operational years.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Dekleer Brothers Industries Ltd. developed a strong reputation in the sailing community for crafting sturdy, dependable cruising yachts. They were particularly known for producing vessels that were described as "bluewater voyagers," designed to comfortably accommodate families for extended cruising. Their design philosophy prioritized seaworthiness and durability, making their boats well-suited for serious offshore adventures.
While much of the design work appears to have been in-house or closely managed, notably with Len De Kleer designing the Fraser 30, the company also collaborated with external talent. The popular Fraser 41, for instance, was designed by Doug Cook in collaboration with Dekleer. This blend of in-house expertise and external design input helped to refine and expand their successful model range.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The most significant and successful models produced by Dekleer Brothers were undoubtedly the Fraser 30 and the Fraser 41.
The Fraser 30, first introduced in 1970, was a 29'11" (9.1 meter) monohull sailboat. Many of these were built as pilot house motorsailers, offering comfortable interior spaces and a versatile sailing experience. While many were sold as kits, their underlying robust construction ensured their longevity. Approximately 36 units of the Fraser 30 MS were produced.
Following the success of the 30, the larger Fraser 41 debuted in 1977. Measuring 41 feet (12.5 meters), this monohull design by Doug Cook/Dekleer further cemented the company's standing as a producer of capable cruising yachts. The Fraser 41, like its smaller sibling, was prized for its heavy-duty construction, making it a popular choice among those seeking a reliable offshore cruiser. Variations, such as the Fraser 42, also appeared, continuing the tradition of comfortable and robust designs.
Beyond the Fraser line, Dekleer Brothers Industries was also associated with building the Endurance 35s, further diversifying their offering of capable cruising vessels. The company's commitment to sturdy builds meant their boats gained a loyal following and remain sought-after by cruisers valuing durability and seaworthiness.
The Builder's Enduring Mark
While Dekleer Brothers Industries Ltd. is no longer actively building new boats, their influence on the Canadian yachting scene and beyond is undeniable. The exact year of their closure is not specified, but upon the cessation of their operations, some of their tooling was reportedly passed on to Spencer Yachts, another builder in British Columbia.
Today, the boats constructed by Dekleer Brothers, particularly the Fraser 30 and 41, continue to ply waters worldwide, a testament to their inherent quality and the builder's vision. These vessels appeal to those who prioritize strong construction, straightforward systems, and the ability to undertake serious cruising. The enduring presence of these yachts decades after their launch underscores the lasting legacy of Dekleer Brothers Industries Ltd., a company that built boats to last.
