In the vibrant marine hub of Anacortes, Washington, a distinctive presence in boat building has emerged: Left Coast Development. Eschewing traditional industry norms, this company has carved out a niche with its unique approach to boat production and distribution, most notably with its acclaimed Left Coast Dart sailboat.
The Origin Story
Left Coast Development traces its roots to a desire for innovation within the boat-building sector. The aspiration was to establish a boat company in Anacortes, seeking a design that echoed the performance and characteristics of vessels like the B25. This vision led to the development of a boat that combined spirited sailing with accessibility.
History and Evolution
Established with an address in Anacortes, Washington, Left Coast Development began building sailboats around 2011, marking its commitment to a different kind of marine enterprise. The company quickly distinguished itself by moving away from what it termed the "old traditional boat builder, dealer thing." Instead, Left Coast Development adopted a direct-to-consumer model, enabling them to sell their products "all over the planet." This innovative approach reflects a modern perspective on marine manufacturing and distribution, aiming for efficiency and broader reach.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Left Coast Development has cultivated a reputation for crafting sailboats that balance performance with user-friendliness. Their flagship model, the Left Coast Dart, embodies this philosophy. Designed by Leif Beiley, the Dart is a 25-foot, 9-inch monohull sailboat that launched in 2011. While designed as a family day-sailer, it also incorporates elements from Beiley's racing sailboats, ensuring ample performance for enthusiastic sailors.
A key aspect of Left Coast Development's approach lies in its construction methodologies. Joe Kitchell, associated with Left Coast Composites, an entity operating within the marine industry in Anacortes, brings over 30 years of experience to composite construction. Kitchell's work focuses on simplifying and reducing the labor involved in boat building, a philosophy that likely influences the efficient production of Left Coast Development's vessels. This emphasis on advanced composite construction contributes to the boats' durability and performance characteristics.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The undisputed centerpiece of Left Coast Development's fleet is the Left Coast Dart. This versatile sailboat is known for being a fast, seaworthy boat with a lifting keel, making it easily trailerable—a significant advantage for owners. Despite its performance capabilities rooted in racing lineage, the Dart is explicitly designed for family enjoyment, offering basic accommodations like good-sized berths and a porta-potty, ensuring comfort for day trips and short excursions. Its introduction aimed to fill a niche for a sport boat that combined ease of use with an exhilarating sailing experience. While specific production numbers are not widely publicized, the Dart stands as a testament to Left Coast Development's vision for a modern, accessible performance sailboat.
The Builder Today
Left Coast Development continues to operate from its Anacortes, Washington base, maintaining its direct-to-consumer sales model. The company remains focused on its niche of producing high-quality, performance-oriented sailboats like the Left Coast Dart. Their current appeal is to sailors who seek a blend of exciting performance, practical trailering capabilities, and a departure from traditional boat acquisition methods. While information on a formal owner community is limited, the innovative design and direct sales model likely foster a close-knit group of enthusiasts who appreciate the unique proposition Left Coast Development offers within the sailing world.
