The narrative of Leisure Yachts begins in the United Kingdom, specifically in Essex. The company's roots can be traced back to Cobramold Ltd., a firm established in 1959 by Managing Director Brian Meerloo, initially operating from a World War II Romney shed at Stansted Airport. Meerloo's vision aimed to revolutionize yacht design and construction, departing from traditional methods.
The seminal moment for Leisure Yachts arrived at the 1967 London Boat Show, where Cobramold introduced their first and arguably most iconic vessel: the Leisure 17. Designed by Arthur Howard around 1966, this 17-foot pocket cruiser was conceived as a practical and comfortable vessel, featuring a spacious cockpit, a cabin with four berths, a small galley, and even a Portaloo. The Leisure 17 immediately resonated with the sailing public, quickly establishing itself as one of the most successful small yachts ever produced in the UK.
History and Evolution
The journey of Leisure Yachts under Cobramold Ltd. continued until 1980 when the company faced liquidation. Following this, the vital molds and production rights were acquired by Brinecraft Ltd., ensuring the continuation of the popular Leisure brand. Brinecraft Ltd. maintained production for another decade, but their tenure was dramatically cut short.
In 1990, a catastrophic fire ravaged the factory, resulting in the destruction or severe damage of much of the original tooling. This unfortunate event effectively marked the end of large-scale Leisure yacht production in the United Kingdom. However, the brand refused to fade. Production of the Leisure 17, utilizing rebuilt molds, continued for a period in Germany and Poland until approximately 1995. A few 17SL models were even produced in Greece for a time before molds returned to Germany.
In the wake of these transitions, Cory Yachts International Ltd., a company with its own history in boat building dating back to 1966, stepped in to continue the legacy of the Leisure brand. Cory Yachts International Ltd. has since introduced new designs, carrying the torch for Leisure Yachts into a new era.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Leisure Yachts quickly earned a reputation for producing robust, practical, and family-friendly cruising yachts. Their design philosophy was evidently centered on providing comfortable and capable boats for recreational sailing, particularly for those new to yachting or seeking a compact, easy-to-manage vessel. The Leisure 17, with its thoughtful interior layout and trailer-sailer capabilities, perfectly embodied this approach. While specific named naval architects are less prominent beyond Arthur Howard for the initial design, the focus remained on functionality, ease of handling, and maximizing interior volume within smaller footprints. The availability of models like the Leisure 23SL with conventional rigs alongside more modern "go fast" options also highlighted a commitment to catering to diverse sailor preferences.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The undisputed flagship of Leisure Yachts' legacy is the Leisure 17. Its remarkable production run, spanning 29 years from its introduction in 1967 to 1996, likely makes it the longest-produced UK trailer-sailer yacht. Its success lay in its balance of compact size with surprising interior accommodation and seaworthiness, making it an ideal choice for new sailors and those looking for an easily trailerable cruiser.
Beyond the 17, Leisure Yachts produced a range of models, including the Leisure 23SL, demonstrating a progression in size and features to meet growing demands. In total, the original Leisure Yachts builders, Cobramold and Brinecraft, are estimated to have produced approximately 3,000 boats, with the majority finding homes in the UK, and a significant number also sold in European markets such as Holland and Germany. While not known for America's Cup campaigns or bespoke superyacht commissions, Leisure Yachts' impact was profound in popularizing sailing for a broader audience, building thousands of dependable, enjoyable boats for leisure.
The Builder Today
In the contemporary marine landscape, the Leisure brand continues its journey under the stewardship of Cory Yachts International Ltd.. This company has taken on the mantle of developing new designs while upholding the spirit of the original Leisure Yachts. While precise production numbers for these newer designs are not widely publicized, the continuity ensures that the brand remains a part of the sailing world.
Perhaps the most enduring aspect of Leisure Yachts' legacy is its incredibly strong and dedicated owner community. The Leisure Owners Association, formed in 1982, serves as a testament to the brand's lasting appeal and the camaraderie among its enthusiasts. This active association provides a vital forum for members to exchange knowledge, offer support, and organize events, ensuring that the spirit of Leisure sailing thrives. The continued existence of such a robust community speaks volumes about the enduring quality, practicality, and cherished memories associated with owning a Leisure yacht.
