The legacy of Gozzard Yachts began with H. Ted Gozzard (born Hedley Gozzard), a British yacht designer and builder who established his first venture, Bayfield Boat Yard Ltd., in 1970 in Bayfield, Ontario, Canada. Ted, along with his brother Hayden, set out to create cruising yachts, a vision that would shape decades of boat building. Bayfield Boat Yard quickly grew to become one of North America's largest sailboat producers.
Bayfield Boat Yard specialized in fiberglass sailboats, an emerging material at the time. Among their earliest designs were the Bayfield 23/24, followed by the Bayfield 30/32, introduced in 1973, and the Bayfield 25, which premiered in 1975. These initial boats laid the groundwork for the brand's reputation for practical and comfortable cruisers.
History and Evolution
In July 1981, H. Ted Gozzard sold his interest in Bayfield Boat Yard. Shortly thereafter, in February 1982, he founded North Castle Marine Ltd., which would become known as Gozzard Yachts, in Goderich, Ontario. This new chapter began not with a sailboat, but with the design and construction of the well-known Pilgrim 40 motor yacht. The Pilgrim 40, reportedly conceived by Ted Gozzard on a restaurant placemat, would see approximately 41 units built. The success of the Pilgrim 40 soon paved the way for the introduction of the Gozzard line of sailing yachts.
The family tradition runs deep within Gozzard Yachts. H. Ted Gozzard's two sons joined the company in 1983. Mike Gozzard, the eldest, has taken an active role in all aspects of the company, serving as Production Manager and the lead in-house yacht designer. Today, the company proudly operates under the guidance of the third generation of the Gozzard family, continuing their commitment to custom and semi-custom boat building.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Gozzard Yachts has cultivated a distinct reputation in the marine industry, known for its "Distinction, Quality and exceptional Sailing Abilities". The company's philosophy is straightforward: "Design, engineer and build the best boats possible and do this specifically for the owner's intended use". This focus results in yachts that are renowned for being sturdy, comfortable, and remarkably seakindly, inspiring a significant sense of pride among owners.
A hallmark of Gozzard's design is their meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to functionality, where form always follows function. Their yachts are specifically crafted with the "live aboard" needs of cruising couples in mind, offering interiors designed for comfort and extended voyages. Construction excellence is paramount, with Gozzard yachts featuring robust builds, utilizing quality materials, and employing meticulous construction techniques, including fully cored hulls and decks.
Unlike many builders who rely on a roster of external naval architects, Gozzard Yachts' designs have largely stemmed from the in-house expertise of H. Ted Gozzard himself, and subsequently, his son Mike Gozzard, who now leads the design efforts. This in-house design approach allows for a consistent and recognizable brand identity across their fleet.
Iconic Models and Legacy
While the Pilgrim 40 motor yacht holds a significant place in the company's early history at North Castle Marine, Gozzard is perhaps best known for its distinctive line of sailing yachts. These cruisers are offered in various sizes, including 31’, 36’, 37’, 41’, and 44’ designs. The Gozzard 36, for example, is lauded as an "elegant blue water sailing yacht". Other prominent models include the Gozzard 44 and 44B MKII.
The company's approach has been to maintain a focused fleet, with "very few model sizes" relative to their long history, emphasizing refinement over sheer volume of models. While specific production numbers for each sailing yacht model are not widely publicized, the enduring presence of many original Bayfield boats, and the consistent demand for pre-owned Gozzard yachts, speak to their lasting quality and appeal, 8, 9]. Gozzard Yachts has consistently focused on the cruising market, and their legacy is built on creating comfortable, capable, and distinctive yachts rather than engaging in high-profile racing projects like the America's Cup.
The Builder Today
Gozzard Yachts (North Castle Marine Ltd.) remains an active and vibrant force in the marine industry today, continuing its operations in Goderich, Ontario. The company proudly remains family-owned and operated, now with the third generation of Gozzards at the helm.
The modern Gozzard yacht continues to appeal to discerning cruisers and those seeking a comfortable and capable live-aboard experience. The company emphasizes its dedication to custom and semi-custom boat building, ensuring that each vessel meets the specific needs of its owner. Gozzard Yachts provides comprehensive support to its owners, offering an exclusive brokerage service for pre-owned Gozzard models and extensive custom upgrade services, including repairs, repainting, refurbishing, and refinishing of wood, fiberglass, and other composites. This factory support fosters a strong and loyal owner community, confident in the longevity and continued value of their Gozzard yacht. The company's official website, gozzard.com, remains active, serving as a hub for current information, available models, and services.
