Hurley Marine Ltd. was founded by George Hurley, a skilled carpenter and shipwright who gained experience working in the Plymouth dockyard during World War II. After the war, in 1946, he established his own business, A.G. Hurley Ltd., laying the groundwork for his future in boatbuilding. It was in 1958 that Hurley ventured into the realm of production boat building with the "Silhouette" cruisers, a move that marked the true genesis of what would become Hurley Marine.
The initial Silhouette models were crafted from marine ply, showcasing the prevailing construction techniques of the era, but the company soon embraced the burgeoning potential of fiberglass, a material that would define much of its future output. This early foray represented Hurley's vision to produce accessible, well-built sailboats for a wider market.
History and Evolution
From its formal establishment around 1962, Hurley Marine Ltd. quickly ascended to become one of the United Kingdom's largest sailboat manufacturers of its time. The company's peak production years in the 1960s saw it prolifically producing vessels, with reports indicating a total output of over 8,000 boats during its operational history. This impressive volume underscored its significant impact on the British marine industry.
A key milestone in Hurley Marine's history was its transition to fiberglass construction, moving away from early wooden or marine ply designs. This embrace of modern materials allowed for more consistent production, greater durability, and reduced maintenance for owners. The company's growth was rapid, and by 1964, additional directors had joined George Hurley, signaling an expansion of its operations and ambitions. Hurley Marine Ltd. continued its operations until 1975, leaving behind a legacy of durable and cherished yachts. After the company ceased operations, some of its molds, such as those for the Hurley 30/90, were acquired by other builders like Southbourne Marine Ltd., allowing certain designs to continue production elsewhere.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Hurley Marine cultivated a reputation for building robust, seaworthy, and practical cruising yachts, particularly appealing to families and those seeking reliable vessels for coastal and offshore adventures. Their boats were known for being strongly built, offering a sense of security and stability on the water.
Central to Hurley Marine's design identity was its collaboration with the talented English yacht designer, Ian Anderson (1935-2013). Anderson was the principal naval architect behind many of Hurley's most successful models, shaping the brand's distinctive lines and performance characteristics. His designs contributed significantly to the practical and enduring nature for which Hurley boats are still celebrated today. The focus was on creating boats that were manageable for single-handed sailing or short-handed crews, yet offered comfortable accommodations for their size.
Iconic Models and Legacy
While Hurley Marine produced a range of boats, two models stand out as particularly iconic and successful:
- Hurley 22: Undoubtedly the most popular model, over 1,200 Hurley 22s were built by Hurley Marine Ltd. alone. Designed by Ian Anderson, production of this versatile cruiser began in 1964 or 1966 and continued until the company's closure in 1975. The Hurley 22 was offered with both fin and bilge keels, catering to various sailing preferences and cruising grounds, including tidal estuaries. Its enduring design meant that production continued by other companies, such as South Coast Marine and Ravensail, up until the early 1990s, with over 1200 units built in total. This model is still highly regarded for its seaworthiness and surprisingly spacious interior for a boat of its length.
- Hurley 18: Another notable design by Ian Anderson, the Hurley 18 saw 377 units built between 1963 and 1972. It offered a smaller, more accessible option for sailors, maintaining the brand's commitment to sturdy and reliable construction.
Beyond these popular models, Hurley Marine produced a variety of other sailboats, including the Hurley 20, 24/70, 27, and 30/90, each contributing to the company's reputation for building dependable cruising yachts. While not involved in high-profile racing circuits like the America's Cup, Hurley Marine's legacy lies in bringing capable and affordable fiberglass yachts to the masses, fostering a love for sailing among countless individuals.
The Builder Today
Though Hurley Marine Ltd. ceased operations in 1975, its impact and legacy continue to resonate within the sailing community. The company's boats, known for their robust construction and practical designs, are still actively sailed around the world, a testament to their build quality and the vision of George Hurley and Ian Anderson.
Modern boats, while no longer built by the original company, appeal to a diverse range of sailors today. They are particularly attractive to those seeking affordable, classic fiberglass yachts that are renowned for their strength and seaworthiness. The ownership experience is often characterized by a strong sense of community. The "Hurley Owners Association" is a vibrant testament to this, actively connecting owners, providing resources, and preserving the history of these cherished vessels. George Hurley himself was an active member of the local yacht club, further cementing the community spirit associated with his creations. The enduring popularity and active owner base highlight the lasting quality and thoughtful design that defined Hurley Marine Ltd. during its influential, albeit relatively brief, history.
