Leonardo Yachts emerged from a rich family tradition of boat building, founded by brothers Steven and Melle Boersma. Their lineage in the marine industry traces back to their grandfather, who was a craftsman building wooden racing dinghies in the 1950s. Steven Boersma embarked on his yacht building journey at the turn of the millennium, initially establishing Da Vinci Yachts. After successfully growing and selling Da Vinci Yachts in 2015, Steven, alongside his brother Melle, fully focused on Leonardo Yachts. Melle brings a strong technical background to the partnership, holding a degree in naval architecture and extensive practical experience with some 35,000 miles of saltwater sailing.
The brothers' collective vision for Leonardo Yachts, starting in 2007 for their sailing yacht endeavors, was clear: to create "modern classic daysailers". Their guiding principle, as evident in their designs, has been a commitment to uncompromising beauty and elegance.
History and Evolution
Situated in Sneek, the Netherlands, Leonardo Yachts benefits from its location in the heart of the country's premium yacht building industry. While Steven Boersma's initial venture, Da Vinci Yachts, began around 2000, Leonardo Yachts specifically for sailing boats commenced its operations in 2007.
From its inception, Leonardo Yachts has consistently focused on a distinct niche: exquisite daysailers that blend timeless aesthetics with contemporary technology. The company has steadily expanded its range, now offering five models that vary in size from 11 to 22 meters. This growth underscores their success in meeting the demands of a discerning clientele seeking a unique sailing experience.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Leonardo Yachts has cultivated a strong reputation in the sailing world for its "modern classic" approach, offering yachts that possess the elegant lines of traditional designs combined with cutting-edge technology and performance capabilities. They are known for building beautiful boats with a keen eye for detail, utilizing high-quality materials and impeccable finishing.
A signature aspect of Leonardo Yachts' design philosophy is the emphasis on practical functionality without compromising style. Their yachts are often designed for easy handling, including the ability for single-handed sailing, and feature spacious cockpits ideal for enjoying time on the water with friends and family. The company prides itself on tailor-made daysailers, built in close collaboration with some of the world's leading yacht designers. Notably, Dykstra Naval Architects has been a key collaborator, specifically contributing to the design of the Eagle 44 and influencing the development of other models. The inspiration for designs like the Eagle 44 even harks back to the famous J-class racing yachts of the 1930s, showcasing a deep respect for sailing heritage.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The cornerstone of Leonardo Yachts' fleet is their acclaimed Eagle series of daysailers. The range includes several significant and successful models, each embodying the brand's core values of elegance, performance, and modern classic appeal. Key models include the Eagle 38, Eagle 44, Eagle 46, and Eagle 54. While specific production numbers are not widely publicized, these models have garnered recognition within the industry. One of their models received the "boat of the year" award in the Special Boats category.
The Eagle 44, for instance, is highlighted as an elegant modern classic daysailer designed in cooperation with Dykstra Naval Architects, blending stylish design with practical functionality. Similarly, the Eagle 38 embodies a "Spirit of Tradition" while integrating state-of-the-art technology for comfort and performance. The newer Eagle 46 further refines this blend, offering effortless sailing for those seeking luxury and speed. The largest in the current production line, the Eagle 54, maintains the timeless classic lines while incorporating a modern underwater hull, suitable for both day sailing and longer stays aboard. While there's a mention of an Eagle 70 in some navigation, the core production models remain the 38, 44, 46, and 54-foot variants.
The Builder Today
Today, Leonardo Yachts remains a proud family-owned business, with Steven Boersma and his wife, Rachel, at the helm. The shipyard continues to operate from its base in Sneek, Netherlands, maintaining its position within the premium Dutch yacht building landscape.
The modern boats from Leonardo Yachts appeal to a discerning clientele who appreciate the fusion of classic beauty and contemporary yachting technology. The ownership experience is designed to be seamless and supportive, with the company offering "carefree delivery" and a commitment to "lifelong service". This dedication fosters a strong sense of community among owners, who are welcomed into the "Eagle family". Leonardo Yachts focuses on a niche market, prioritizing the construction of truly beautiful boats without compromise, appealing to those who seek an exclusive and high-quality sailing experience.
