For decades, Honnor Marine Ltd. has been a name synonymous with seaworthy and versatile small boats, particularly the iconic Drascombe range. While the company's early founding details remain somewhat elusive in public records, its impact on the world of traditional sailing and rowing craft is undeniable, having produced thousands of beloved boats that continue to ply waters worldwide.
The Origin Story
Honnor Marine Ltd. was established in 1956 in Totnes, Devon, a region rich in maritime heritage. While the specific individuals behind its initial formation are not widely documented, the company swiftly became the primary builder of the highly acclaimed Drascombe boats, designed by the innovative naval architect John Watkinson. This partnership laid the foundation for Honnor Marine's enduring legacy, shaping its reputation for crafting robust, safe, and easily managed small vessels. The original vision, though unstated by a specific founder, clearly centered on producing traditional-style boats that offered exceptional stability, performance, and accessibility for a wide range of sailors and rowers.
History and Evolution
The history of Honnor Marine is intricately tied to the continuous production and evolution of the Drascombe line. For over three decades, the company was the stalwart manufacturer of these distinctive boats. A significant milestone occurred in 1998 when Bob and Norma Brown acquired Honnor Marine. This period also saw a notable change in branding: as Honnor Marine did not own the "Drascombe" trademark, the company began referring to its beloved models as the "Original Devon" range. This ensured continuity while establishing a distinct identity for the boats built under Honnor Marine's stewardship.
The company's commitment to modern standards was evident in its construction, utilizing materials like GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) for hulls and decks, while retaining classic wooden trims, blending durability with traditional aesthetics. In 2018, upon the retirement of Bob and Norma Brown, Honnor Marine was sold to Tim and April Altham, who continued the tradition under the name Honnor Marine Classics Ltd.. They relocated the operation to Swanage, Dorset, ensuring the heritage of these classic boats endured.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Honnor Marine's reputation in the sailing world is firmly built on the principles of reliability, practicality, and classic appeal. The boats they produce are renowned for their exceptional stability, ease of handling, and go-anywhere capability, making them popular choices for comfortable family cruising, fishing, and exploring coastal waters. They are particularly known for their ability to be launched and recovered easily, fitting into spaces typically reserved for larger dinghies.
The core of Honnor Marine's identity lies in the timeless designs of John Watkinson, whose philosophy emphasized seaworthiness and versatility. Signature design features include a traditional yawl rig (though other rigs were also used), sturdy construction, and a generous amount of internal space for their length. The boats are designed to be forgiving and predictable, appealing to both seasoned sailors and those new to boating. Honnor Marine has consistently built these boats to modern CE standards for buoyancy and stability, ensuring safety alongside their classic charm.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The most significant and successful models in Honnor Marine's history are undoubtedly the various craft that make up the Drascombe, and later, the Original Devon range. The Drascombe Lugger stands as perhaps the most iconic, widely recognized for its robust build, good performance under sail and oar, and remarkable versatility. Other popular models include the Dabber, a smaller, highly maneuverable craft; the Scaffie, known for its simplicity; the longer Longboat, ideal for carrying more crew or gear; the Coaster, offering additional cuddy space; and the Gig, a larger rowing and sailing vessel.
These boats were produced in substantial numbers over the decades, creating a strong and passionate community of owners worldwide. Their enduring popularity stems from their timeless design, rugged construction, and ability to fulfill a variety of roles, from coastal cruising to adventurous expeditions. While Honnor Marine did not engage in high-profile custom projects like America's Cup boats, their legacy is firmly rooted in making classic, capable boats accessible to a broad audience, fostering a love for traditional small craft.
The Builder Today
Today, Honnor Marine continues its legacy as Honnor Marine Classics Ltd., under the ownership of Tim and April Altham. Based in Swanage, Dorset, the company maintains its commitment to building the Original Devon range (Scaffie, Dabber, Lugger, Longboat, Coaster, and Gig), preserving the traditional aesthetics and robust construction that defined them.
The modern boats from Honnor Marine Classics appeal to individuals and families seeking a connection to traditional boating, valuing stability, ease of use, and a classic aesthetic. Owners often praise the boats' inherent seaworthiness and low maintenance requirements. The enduring popularity of these models has fostered a strong, active, and supportive owner community, with many enthusiasts regularly participating in rallies and events, sharing their passion for these resilient and charming craft. Honnor Marine Classics also offers a brokerage service for pre-owned Devon and Drascombe boats, further supporting this vibrant community.
