In the world of yachting, few names evoke the blend of speed, luxury, and groundbreaking design quite like Gunboat. From its visionary inception to its current iteration under new ownership, Gunboat has consistently redefined what's possible in the high-performance catamaran segment, carving out a unique niche for discerning sailors who demand both exhilarating speed and unparalleled comfort.
The Origin Story
The genesis of Gunboat can be traced back to the innovative spirit of its founder, Peter Johnstone, son of the legendary Bob Johnstone, co-founder of J/Boats and MJM Yachts. Peter Johnstone's vision was born from a desire to combine the comfort and stability of a cruising catamaran with the blistering performance typically associated with grand prix monohulls. His motivation stemmed from personal experience, seeking to overcome the discomfort his family experienced on large monohulls.
The year 2004 marked the formal establishment of Gunboat. However, the concept's practical application began earlier, with Johnstone collaborating with Clint Clemens on a pair of 62-foot performance catamarans. These inaugural vessels, including the famed "Tribe" (Gunboat 62.01), were designed by the renowned multihull specialists Morrelli & Melvin and built in Cape Town, South Africa, by Harvey Yachts and Jaz Marine. Light, simple, and exceptionally fast, these Gunboat 62s immediately set new benchmarks, establishing a hitherto unseen category of luxury performance cruising catamarans.
History and Evolution
Gunboat's history is characterized by rapid innovation and, at times, significant change. After establishing its initial reputation with the 62-foot models, the company continued to push boundaries with subsequent designs. Early manufacturing was primarily based in Cape Town, South Africa. For a period, production of the Gunboat 55, the last model from Peter Johnstone's era, shifted to a new facility in North Carolina, USA.
Despite its innovative designs and a passionate following, Gunboat faced financial challenges, eventually leading Peter Johnstone to declare Chapter 11 bankruptcy in May 2016. However, the brand's potential was undeniable. In the same year, the reputable French group Grand Large Yachting, known for its Outremer and Allures brands, acquired Gunboat, ensuring its continuity and future. This acquisition brought financial stability and robust industrial backing to the company. Under Grand Large Yachting, Gunboat manufacturing was relocated to La Grande-Motte, France, where it continues to build its high-performance yachts today.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Gunboat has cultivated an unmistakable reputation in the sailing world for producing "luxury performance catamarans". The brand is synonymous with "fast composite carbon catamarans" that are capable of out-sailing maxis on the racecourse while offering considerable comfort for bluewater cruising. Their design philosophy emphasizes a "zero compromise approach to design, engineering, structure, build and performance".
Key to Gunboat's identity are its signature features such as daggerboards, which enhance upwind performance, and advanced carbon fiber construction, ensuring light displacement and immense strength. The layouts are typically designed for both exhilarating sailing and comfortable living, often featuring large, open saloons and well-appointed cabins.
Gunboat's success is deeply intertwined with its collaboration with some of the most respected naval architects and designers in the multihull world. Morrelli & Melvin were instrumental in the original Gunboat 62 and the popular Gunboat 48. Later, Nigel Irens contributed to models like the Gunboat 55 and Gunboat 60. In its current era, under Grand Large Yachting, Gunboat has partnered with VPLP Design, who are responsible for the cutting-edge Gunboat 68 and the new Gunboat 80.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Throughout its relatively short but impactful history, Gunboat has launched several iconic models that have left an indelible mark on the marine industry:
- Gunboat 62: The model that started it all. Vessels like "Tribe" and "Safari" gained legendary status, with a video of "Safari" even going viral in the early days of social media, showcasing the catamaran's incredible speed. These boats redefined the luxury performance catamaran segment.
- Gunboat 48: A highly successful range built between 2004 and 2009, with six units produced. Designed by Morrelli & Melvin, it offered a more manageable size for owner-operators while still achieving impressive daily runs of 300-400 miles. Surfing megastar John John Florence's Gunboat 48, "Vela," popularized the model through a beautifully shot travelogue series.
- Gunboat 55: Designed by Nigel Irens, this model was the last introduced before the company's change in ownership.
- Gunboat 60: Evolving from its predecessors, the Gunboat 60, also designed by Nigel Irens, featured all-carbon and epoxy construction, setting new standards for luxury performance.
- Gunboat 68: The first model launched under Grand Large Yachting ownership, the Gunboat 68, designed by VPLP, is a testament to the brand's continued commitment to "no-compromise" luxury and performance. It quickly became a hallmark of the new era.
- Gunboat 72 & 80: More recently, Gunboat has expanded its offerings with the Gunboat 72, which boldly introduced a flybridge while maintaining performance, and the even larger Gunboat 80, designed by VPLP. The first 72-foot model launched in June 2023, followed by the first 80-foot model, "Highland Fling," also in June 2023. These larger models signify a trend towards superyacht-style performance catamarans, sometimes designed for crewed operation.
Gunboat's legacy lies in its pioneering role in creating the high-performance catamaran niche. They inspired other builders and continue to push the boundaries of multihull design, combining racing prowess with the ability to undertake comfortable, long-distance cruises.
The Builder Today
Today, Gunboat operates under the robust ownership of Grand Large Yachting, benefiting from their industry knowledge, build expertise, and financial stability. The company's operations are now centered at its state-of-the-art facility in La Grande-Motte, France.
Modern Gunboats appeal to a discerning clientele seeking the ultimate high-performance cruising and racing experience. The target market comprises experienced sailors and owners who prioritize speed, advanced composite construction, luxurious appointments, and the ability to cover significant distances quickly and comfortably. The ownership experience is characterized by participation in prestigious regattas and adventurous global cruising. While not explicitly stated as a "community," the high-profile nature of Gunboat owners and their participation in events suggests a strong, engaged owner base. Gunboat continues to evolve, producing highly sophisticated, semi-custom yachts that represent the pinnacle of multihull design and construction.
