From its humble beginnings on the Catalan coast to its pioneering role in fiberglass yacht construction, Gallart Shipyard, also known as Astilleros Gallart, carved out a significant niche in the marine industry. Renowned for their robust motor yachts and, later, some agile racing sailboats, Gallart boats became a hallmark of quality and seaworthiness, embodying a distinctive Mediterranean flair.
The Origin Story
The journey of Gallart Shipyard began in 1944 when Joan Gallart established the company in Vilassar de Mar, a coastal town near Barcelona, Spain. A naval constructor with a specialization in the manufacturing and repair of fiberglass reinforced vessels, Joan Gallart started by building small wooden boats, laying the foundation for a legacy of craftsmanship. A decade later, his son, Jaume Gallart, joined the burgeoning enterprise, bringing further expertise gleaned from time spent in "prestigious" shipbuilding environments, contributing significantly to the shipyard's growth. The company quickly gained a reputation for the quality of its initial wooden fishing and working boats, which soon transitioned into the realm of pleasure craft. Gallart's ambition extended beyond national borders early on, with the company exporting its first yacht to the United States in 1957.
History and Evolution
A pivotal moment in Gallart's history arrived in 1960 when the shipyard became one of the first Spanish builders to experiment with, and subsequently mass-produce, boats using fiberglass construction. This foresight into new materials not only set Gallart apart from its contemporaries but also positioned it at the forefront of modern yacht manufacturing in Spain.
The mid-1960s saw a significant corporate transformation. In 1966, Gallart Shipyard SA merged with Astilleros Ibiza SL to form Astilleros Reunidos SA, widely known as ARESA. While this merger marked a new chapter, the Gallart brand continued to produce pleasure yachts under this larger umbrella. However, by the late 1970s, ARESA progressively shifted its primary focus towards the construction of commercial, military, and surveillance vessels ranging from 9 to 60 meters. Today, ARESA Shipyard boasts an extensive portfolio of over 1,200 units built for professional and military sectors. Despite this redirection of ARESA's core business, the esteemed Gallart brand persisted in the recreational yacht market, adapting to evolving demands and materials.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Gallart yachts are celebrated for their robust construction, intelligent design, and exceptional seakeeping abilities, reflecting a blend of traditional Spanish craftsmanship with pioneering technologies. The brand established a strong reputation, particularly for its motor yachts, which combined a distinct Mediterranean aesthetic with practicality and seaworthiness. This reputation for quality and performance cemented Gallart's standing in the sailing world.
The shipyard collaborated with notable designers to bring their visions to life. A prime example is the renowned naval architect D. Presles, who contributed to the design of popular models such as the Gallart 13.5. The Gallart design philosophy consistently prioritized durability and reliability, creating vessels capable of enduring diverse marine conditions while offering comfortable and inviting interiors.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Throughout its history, Gallart produced several significant and successful models that left a lasting impression on the yachting community. Among the most iconic are the Gallart 13.5 (also known as 13.50, 1350, or 13.5 MP), the Gallart 15, and the Gallart 11MY2000. These models, particularly the flybridge cruisers, became synonymous with Gallart's commitment to quality and comfort, appealing to a wide range of discerning yacht owners. The Gallart 16 MY is another notable model in their production range.
Even after ARESA's shift towards commercial and military shipbuilding, the Gallart brand continued to produce pleasure yachts for a considerable period. Evidence of this continued production includes models like the Gallart 18.50, with some units launched as late as 2007. This demonstrates the enduring appeal and market presence of Gallart's recreational designs, extending its legacy well into the 21st century.
The Builder Today
While Astilleros Reunidos SA (ARESA) operates today as a prominent builder of professional and military vessels, the legacy of Gallart as a pleasure yacht builder lives on primarily through its robust secondary market. Numerous pre-owned Gallart yachts, ranging from classic models to those built in the early 2000s, are actively traded globally.
For modern boaters, owning a Gallart yacht means appreciating a vessel built with a focus on durability and classic lines. The brand's emphasis on exceptional seakeeping and robust construction makes these yachts a highly esteemed choice for those seeking reliable cruisers. The continued presence of Gallart yachts in the brokerage market is a testament to their enduring build quality and the loyalty of their owners, many of whom form dedicated communities around these classic Spanish vessels.
