Escape Sailboat Co.: A Pioneering Chapter in Accessible Sailing
In the dynamic world of yachting, where innovation often pushes the boundaries of performance and luxury, some companies carve a niche by focusing on accessibility and the pure joy of getting on the water. Escape Sailboat Co. was one such builder, distinguished by its mission to introduce sailing to a broader audience through durable, user-friendly, and affordable boats. Though no longer in operation, its brief history reflects a unique approach to marine manufacturing, spearheaded by a team of sailing luminaries.
Escape Sailboat Co. was founded in 1996 by a remarkable group of individuals deeply embedded in the sailing world: Peter Johnstone, Tom Whidden, and Gary Jobson, among other well-known names. Peter Johnstone, son of the founder of the renowned J/Boats, brought a heritage of boat-building and a passion for sailing to the venture. His co-founders, Tom Whidden and Gary Jobson, were both America's Cup winners and highly acclaimed figures in professional sailing. Whidden, a legendary sailmaker, was also the executive chairman of North Technology Group (North Sails), while Jobson was (and remains) a celebrated television commentator, author, and advocate for the sport.
Their collective vision was to build a line of small, inexpensive sailboats primarily aimed at beginners and for resort rentals. This objective was a departure from traditional fiberglass construction, leading them to embrace roto-molded technology for their hulls. The company's original base was in Yarmouth, Rhode Island, USA.
History and Evolution
From its inception in 1996, Escape Sailboat Co. focused on a revolutionary construction method for small boats: roto-molded polyethylene. This technique allowed for the creation of durable, lightweight, and seamless hulls, which were ideal for their target market of novice sailors and rental fleets. The use of polyethylene offered significant advantages in terms of impact resistance and low maintenance, crucial for boats that might experience frequent use and occasional bumps.
While the company officially began in 1996, Peter Johnstone had reportedly formed a partnership with North Sails, led by Whidden and Jobson, as early as 1991, perhaps laying the groundwork for the eventual formation of Escape Sailboat Co. This collaboration underscored the deep expertise and industry connections that powered the venture. Escape Sailboat Co. operated for over a decade before ceasing business operations in 2009.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Escape Sailboat Co. quickly established a reputation for producing small, inexpensive, and easy-to-sail boats. Their core identity revolved around making sailing accessible to a broader demographic, moving away from the perception of sailing as an exclusive or complex activity. The company's unique selling proposition was its innovative use of roto-molded polyethylene, which resulted in boats that were not only affordable but also incredibly robust and simple to maintain.
A key figure in the design of some of Escape's early models was naval architect Garry Hoyt, credited with designing the Escape 12, a popular model in their lineup. This collaboration with an experienced designer helped ensure that even with their focus on simplicity and affordability, the boats offered a respectable sailing experience.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Escape Sailboat Co. produced several notable models during its operational years, each designed with ease of use and durability in mind. Some of their significant models included the Escape 12, Rumba, Captiva, Solsa, Mambo, Escape 9, Mango, and Cha Cha. The Escape 12, for example, showcased the benefits of its roto-molded construction, offering a lightweight yet sturdy platform for new sailors. The Captiva, sometimes referred to as the 11.5-footer, was also a popular choice for those seeking a straightforward sailing dinghy.
The company's legacy lies in its contribution to making sailing more accessible and affordable. By providing simple, robust, and low-maintenance boats, Escape Sailboat Co. helped lower the barrier to entry for countless aspiring sailors, whether through private ownership or resort-based learning programs. Their boats were designed to be forgiving and fun, fostering a positive initial experience for those new to the sport.
The Builder Today
As of 2009, Escape Sailboat Co. is no longer in business. Despite its relatively short lifespan, the company left its mark on the marine industry by demonstrating the viability of roto-molded construction for recreational sailboats and by successfully attracting new participants to sailing.
Today, pre-owned Escape sailboats continue to appeal to entry-level sailors, families seeking simple aquatic enjoyment, and those in search of durable, low-maintenance dinghies. Their ownership experience is characterized by the ease of use and the resilient nature of their polyethylene hulls, making them ideal for casual sailing and robust enough for rental fleets or sailing schools. While the original company may have closed its doors, the boats it produced continue to serve their purpose, providing an affordable gateway to the joys of sailing.
