Down East Yachts Inc. was founded in 1974 by Robert Poole, a name already familiar in the marine industry due to his prior work with Columbia Yachts. Poole established his new venture in Santa Ana, California, with an address at 700 East Alton Avenue. While his specific vision isn't explicitly documented, his background and the nature of the boats produced suggest a clear focus on building sturdy, reliable cruising vessels. The company's debut model was the Downeaster 38, a sailboat designed by Henry Mohrschladt. Like other vessels of its era, it was constructed from fiberglass, a material that revolutionized boat building due to its durability and ease of maintenance.
History and Evolution
Down East Yachts Inc. operated for nearly a decade, from its founding in 1974 until 1983. A significant aspect of the company's history was its involvement in the continuation of another well-known builder's legacy. After Westsail Corporation encountered difficulties, Down East Yachts Inc. was contracted to build or complete a number of Westsail boats. This collaboration further cemented Down East Yachts' reputation for producing full-keeled, offshore-capable cruising sailboats.
The company's journey, however, came to an end with the passing of its founder, Robert Poole, in 1983. Following his death, the molds and tooling for Down East Yachts' models were acquired by Newport Offshore Yachts. This transfer ensured that the designs, which had gained a following among cruisers, could potentially live on, albeit under a new banner.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Down East Yachts Inc. quickly established a reputation for building "solidly built cruiser type" boats. The "Downeaster" prefix used for their own line of yachts is indicative of their design ethos. This nomenclature draws inspiration from the traditional "Downeast" style of boats, originally from Maine's lobster fishing industry, known for their durability, efficiency, and sea-kindly nature. Although Down East Yachts was based on the West Coast, their designs embraced these robust characteristics, appealing to sailors looking for comfortable and safe long-range cruising vessels.
Their boats, such as the Downeaster 32, were specifically conceived as "long range cruisers for two people, capable of crossing oceans in safety and comfort". The Downeaster 32 was notably designed by Robert Poole himself, showcasing his direct influence on the company's offerings. The Downeaster 38, another prominent model, was designed by Henry Mohrschladt. The focus was consistently on seaworthiness and stability, features highly valued by serious cruisers.
Iconic Models and Legacy
While Down East Yachts Inc. had a relatively short run, it produced several memorable models that continue to be valued in the used boat market. The primary models under their own "Downeaster" brand included the Downeaster 32, Downeaster 38, and the larger Downeaster 45.
The Downeaster 38 was the company's inaugural vessel and quickly became recognized for its full-keeled, heavy-displacement design, ideal for offshore voyaging. The Downeaster 32, designed by Robert Poole himself, further solidified the company's standing as a builder of robust, seaworthy cruising boats, lauded for its ability to handle ocean passages. The Downeaster 45, available as a ketch or schooner rig, extended the builder's offerings into larger cruising yachts, maintaining the signature heavy-duty construction.
Beyond their own designs, the significant undertaking of building or finishing Westsail boats after that company ceased operations also forms a crucial part of Down East Yachts' legacy. This effort helped keep a popular and respected line of full-keeled cruisers in production, demonstrating Down East Yachts' capacity for substantial manufacturing and their alignment with the philosophy of robust, ocean-going sailboats.
The Builder Today
Down East Yachts Inc. ceased operations in 1983 following the death of its founder, Robert Poole. Consequently, the company as an entity no longer exists in its original form. However, its legacy endures through the fiberglass molds and tooling, which were sold to Newport Offshore Yachts. This transfer meant that the designs and the distinctive "Downeaster" style, known for its emphasis on solid construction and long-range cruising capability, could potentially be produced by others.
Today, while the original company is a part of marine history, the Downeaster models they produced are still found on the water. These boats continue to appeal to sailors who prioritize durability, stability, and offshore capability over light-air performance or modern aesthetics. They represent a bygone era of boat building where a "heavy displacement" and "full keel" were synonymous with safety and comfort on extended voyages. The ownership experience for these classic Downeaster yachts is often characterized by a community of dedicated enthusiasts who appreciate the enduring qualities of these well-built cruisers.
