Nestled on Sweden's boat-building heartland of Orust Island, IW-Varvet emerged as a prominent name in the yachting world, particularly renowned for its well-built, Sparkman & Stephens-designed sailing yachts. Though the original company's journey concluded in the early 1980s, its legacy endures through a fleet of classic cruiser-racers that continue to grace waters worldwide.
IW-Varvet's story began in 1958 with the production of the "IW-sportbåten," a collaboration with Mercury. While the exact founder's name associated with "IW-Varvet" is not definitively stated in all records, early connections point to figures such as Bror for models like the IW 25. The initial focus on a sport boat suggests a venture into the burgeoning leisure marine market, laying the groundwork for the shipyard's future endeavors in sailboat construction.
History and Evolution
IW-Varvet quickly established itself as a builder of quality fiberglass yachts, a significant transition in the mid-20th century marine industry. A pivotal moment in the company's history came with its collaboration with the esteemed American naval architecture firm, Sparkman & Stephens (S&S). This partnership would define many of IW-Varvet's most iconic models.
However, like many boat builders of its era, IW-Varvet faced economic challenges. The company ultimately went into bankruptcy in 1982. Following its insolvency, Fredriksson, another entity, acquired the bankrupt IW-Varvet. This marked the end of IW-Varvet as an independent boat-building entity, though its designs and existing fleet continued their life on the water.
Design Philosophy and Identity
IW-Varvet cultivated a reputation for producing robust and seaworthy sailing yachts, particularly known as comfortable cruiser-racers. Their boats were often lauded for their "fine plastic work," referring to the quality of their fiberglass construction. The defining characteristic of IW-Varvet's design philosophy was its strong collaboration with Sparkman & Stephens. This partnership imbued IW-Varvet yachts with the renowned S&S characteristics: elegant lines, excellent sailing performance, and a reputation for being well-mannered offshore.
Beyond Sparkman & Stephens, IW-Varvet also worked with other designers, notably Ivar Åkesson, who designed the F 18 model first built in 1962.
Iconic Models and Legacy
IW-Varvet's enduring legacy is primarily cemented by its highly successful and respected sailboat models:
- IW-31: This 30-foot, 3-inch (9.2-meter) yacht, designed by Sparkman & Stephens (Design #1899), was a phenomenal success for the yard. Approximately 350 hulls were built between 1968 and 1985, establishing it as a popular "Half Tonner" and a beloved cruiser-racer. The IW-31 remains a sought-after classic, celebrated for its balanced performance and comfortable accommodations.
- IW-40: Often referred to as the "elder brother of the IW-31," the 40-footer also benefited from the design prowess of Sparkman & Stephens. It offered more space and capability, appealing to those seeking a larger cruising or racing platform while retaining the hallmark S&S characteristics.
- F 18: An earlier sailboat model, the F 18, designed by Ivar Åkesson, was first built in 1962.
- IW-23: Among the several sailboat models produced by IW-Varvet, the IW-23 also holds a place, contributing to the shipyard's diverse range of offerings.
While not a sailboat, the "IW-sportbåten," which later led to models like the IW 25 (possibly designed by Bror), represented the company's foundational step into boat manufacturing. The consistent demand for used IW-Varvet boats today underscores their timeless appeal and solid construction.
The Builder Today
IW-Varvet, as the original boat-building company, ceased operations in 1982 following its bankruptcy. Therefore, there is no ongoing production under the original IW-Varvet name in the modern marine market. However, the spirit and craftsmanship of IW-Varvet live on through its well-maintained existing fleet.
The boats built by IW-Varvet continue to appeal to sailors who appreciate classic lines, robust construction, and proven offshore capability. The ownership experience is often characterized by a strong sense of community, with dedicated groups like "Swedish Classic Boats" featuring members with IW-Varvet yachts and even specific associations such as the "IW-31 owners" group. These communities are a testament to the enduring quality and beloved status of IW-Varvet boats, ensuring that the legacy of this Swedish shipyard sails on.
