As a venerable institution in the annals of American yacht building, Easterly Yachts carved out a notable, albeit brief, legacy in the marine industry. Operating from the heart of Pearlington, Mississippi, from 1969 to 1980, the company became synonymous with the designs of Mike Brennan, leaving behind a fleet of well-regarded cruising sailboats.
Easterly Yachts emerged in 1969, establishing its manufacturing base in Pearlington, Mississippi. At the helm of its design efforts was Mike Brennan, a figure from a "hardcore boating family," suggesting a deep-rooted connection to the maritime world and a family legacy in boat design and construction. Brennan's vision for Easterly Yachts was centered around producing sailboats that offered a blend of performance and comfortable cruising. While specific details about the company's very first boat remain somewhat elusive, the foundational models would set the tone for Easterly's reputation.
History and Evolution
Easterly Yachts' operational span was relatively short, lasting just over a decade, from 1969 to 1980. During this period, the company focused on crafting fiberglass monohull sailboats, a material choice that was becoming standard in the industry for its durability, ease of maintenance, and efficiency in production. There are no public records of major corporate mergers or acquisitions for Easterly Yachts, indicating a more singular, focused operation under Mike Brennan's design leadership. The company's existence coincided with a period of significant growth in recreational boating, and Easterly contributed to the expanding market for fiberglass sailboats in the United States.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Easterly Yachts garnered a reputation for producing sensible and capable cruising sailboats. The consistent thread through their offerings was the design work of Mike Brennan. While not known for extreme racing machines or ultra-luxurious custom builds, Easterly boats were appreciated for their solid construction and practical layouts, appealing to sailors looking for reliable vessels for coastal cruising and comfortable living aboard. Descriptions of models like the Easterly 30 highlight features such as a "large and comfortable cockpit" and a "nimble yet stable sailing nature," indicating a focus on usability and pleasant sailing characteristics. The company primarily produced masthead sloops, a popular and efficient rigging choice for their size and intended use.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Throughout its eleven-year history, Easterly Yachts produced several noteworthy models that continue to be sought after in the brokerage market. The most prominent models designed by Mike Brennan include:
- Easterly 30: This model, sometimes referred to as the Easterly 30 (Brennan), was a popular design, with at least one recorded instance of a 1971 model. It featured an auxiliary Universal Atomic 4 gas engine with a V-drive.
- Easterly 36: Introduced in 1976, the Easterly 36 was a center cockpit sloop, offering more spacious accommodations, suitable for extended cruising.
- Easterly 38: First built in 1977, the Easterly 38, sometimes listed as the Easterly 38/SL, represented a larger iteration of Brennan's cruising designs.
Easterly Yachts also produced a fiberglass version of the classic Luders 16 day sailer in 1972. While production numbers for individual models are not widely available, the continued presence of these boats in the used boat market speaks to their enduring quality and design.
The Builder Today
Easterly Yachts ceased operations in 1980. The company is no longer in business, and its Pearlington, Mississippi, facility is no longer active in boat production under the Easterly name. Today, the legacy of Easterly Yachts lives on through the pre-owned market, where their well-built fiberglass sailboats occasionally appear for sale. Owners of Easterly yachts typically represent those who appreciate classic fiberglass designs, robust construction, and practical cruising capabilities, often forming a dedicated community of enthusiasts who maintain and cherish these venerable vessels.
