Kungsörs Båtvarv AB commenced its remarkable journey in 1914, founded by the remarkably young Oscar Schelin. At merely 19 years old, Schelin embarked on his boatbuilding career, initially constructing sailboats in his uncle's wagon workshop in Köping. This ambitious start laid the groundwork for what would become Sweden's oldest family-owned boatyard. Schelin's vision was clearly to build high-quality vessels, a dedication that saw him establish his own boatyard in Kungsör in 1918, situated opposite Kungsudden. The first significant boat to emerge from his yard in 1914 marked the beginning of an endless stream of boats that would leave Kungsör's shores. Among his early notable creations was a motorboat designed by himself in 1918 for a client named Kapten Larsén.
History and Evolution
The growth of Kungsörs Båtvarv AB is a testament to enduring craftsmanship and strategic development. Following its initial establishment, the boatyard moved to its current location at Tegeludden, with the construction of the present shipyard taking place in 1939. The company has maintained its family ownership throughout its history, now being run by the fourth generation of the Schelin family, preserving a strong tradition of maritime excellence. The current company name, Kungsörs Båtvarv AB, has been officially in use since July 20, 1964. While their historical roots are firmly in wooden boat construction, the shipyard today operates as a modern facility, balancing its storied past with contemporary demands.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Kungsörs Båtvarv AB has earned a reputation in the sailing community, often referred to as Schelin's Boatyard, a nod to its legendary founder. The shipyard is known for its genuine approach to boatbuilding, a characteristic that permeates its designs and construction techniques. Historically, Kungsörs Båtvarv has been a builder of fine sailing vessels, ranging from competitive racers to comfortable cruisers and sturdy motorboats. This diverse portfolio underscores a design philosophy centered on versatility and quality.
Over the decades, Kungsörs Båtvarv has collaborated with several renowned naval architects, showcasing its commitment to exceptional design. Oscar Schelin himself was a skilled designer, responsible for some of the yard's early motorboats. Later, the yard built vessels designed by other esteemed figures, such as a 1936 Koster-class boat penned by Arvid Laurin and a 1958 Dragon (Drake) class yacht designed by Johan Anker. Olle Enderline also contributed to the yard's legacy, designing a Havskryssare built in 1964. This collaborative spirit has allowed Kungsörs Båtvarv to produce a wide array of distinctive and highly regarded boats.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The legacy of Kungsörs Båtvarv is enshrined in its numerous iconic models that have graced the waters. The yard became particularly known for building racing boats, famously constructing the Rush-class 5.5m boats for the esteemed Swedish racer Lasse Thörn, including his A:22 Rush III S258 built in 1944.
Other significant sailboats built by the yard include the Udell (1955), the Pipedream 37 (1961), and the Schelin Cruiser (1964), indicating their proficiency in crafting capable cruising yachts. Their involvement in the popular Dragon (Drake) class is highlighted by the 1958 "Sayonara," a testament to their precision in building one-design racers. The yard also produced several 5mR class boats throughout the 1930s and 1940s, further solidifying its standing in the racing world. Beyond sailboats, Kungsörs Båtvarv also constructed various motorboats, dating back to 1918 and 1921. These diverse models reflect the shipyard's adaptability and broad appeal across different segments of the marine industry.
The Builder Today
Today, Kungsörs Båtvarv AB remains an active and vibrant entity in the global market, continuing its long-standing tradition of boatbuilding. As Sweden's oldest family-owned boatyard, it is now guided by the fourth generation of the Schelin family, ensuring the continuity of its heritage and expertise. Located at Fredsgatan 22, 736 32 Kungsör, the company maintains its operations with a dedicated team, employing 9 individuals as of 2024. Kungsörs Båtvarv positions itself as a modern shipyard that upholds genuine craftsmanship, appealing to discerning owners who value tradition, quality, and personalized service. The enduring family ownership likely fosters a strong sense of community among its boat owners, connecting them to a living piece of Swedish maritime history.
