Nestled in the heart of New Zealand's vibrant marine industry, McDell Marine has carved out a prestigious reputation as a builder of exceptional yachts. From its humble beginnings to its collaborations with world-renowned designers, the company's journey is a testament to Kiwi craftsmanship, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to quality.
The genesis of McDell Marine can be traced back to the vision of its founder, Kim McDell. A former skiff champion, McDell formally entered the marine sector in 1973, bringing a deep understanding of boat performance and construction to the fore. The company, as it is known today, truly took shape around 1976, evolving from McDell's prior involvement with the "Sea Nymph" powerboat business. Kim McDell ultimately bought back the yacht building division, rebranding it as McDell Marine Ltd. This pivotal moment marked the company's dedicated focus on crafting high-performance and high-quality sailing yachts. Facing challenges such as a significant 20% boat tax introduced in New Zealand in 1979, McDell Marine demonstrated early resilience, navigating hurdles that saw many other manufacturers falter.
A Legacy of Excellence and Evolution
McDell Marine quickly established itself as a highly regarded name in New Zealand's marine landscape. The company's history is marked by a series of significant milestones that underscore its adaptability and commitment to global standards. A notable achievement was securing a substantial $25 million export order, which earned them a Trade New Zealand export commendation.
Perhaps the most defining chapter in McDell Marine's history was its exclusive partnership with the esteemed British luxury yacht builder, Oyster Marine. Between 1998 and 2010, McDell Marine became the only international firm authorized to build Oyster yachts, a testament to their exceptional build quality and meticulous attention to detail. This rigorous evaluation process cemented McDell Marine's position on the international stage, demonstrating their capability to meet the demanding standards of the global luxury yacht market. The company's collaborative spirit also extended to working with a Japanese automotive giant for export, further highlighting their diverse manufacturing capabilities.
Design Philosophy and Enduring Identity
McDell Marine's reputation in the sailing world is one of precision, robust construction, and efficient production. They are particularly renowned for their work with designs from Farr Yacht Design, a prominent American naval architecture firm. This collaboration led to the construction of celebrated models like the Farr MRX match-racing yachts, as well as the popular Farr 1020 and 1220 cruiser-racers. The company's expertise lies in bringing these high-performance designs to life, ensuring both speed and seaworthiness. McDell Marine has been recognized for its ability to build boats efficiently while consistently upholding the high brand expectations of its design partners and clients.
Iconic Creations and Broad Appeal
Throughout its history, McDell Marine has been responsible for the construction of several iconic yacht models that have left a significant mark on the industry. The Farr MRX, Farr 1020, and Farr 1220 stand out as key sailing yachts built by the company, known for their performance characteristics in racing and cruising respectively.
Beyond their work with Farr designs, the partnership with Oyster Marine saw McDell Marine become the primary builder for specific Oyster models, including the widely acclaimed Oyster 53. This bluewater cruising yacht, known for its serious yet refined capabilities, was sold globally, often promoted with a strong emphasis on its Kiwi craftsmanship. McDell Marine also built the Oyster LD 43 powerboat, showcasing their versatility across different yachting segments. Diversifying their portfolio further, Kim McDell and his team also produced the "Reflections" range of sport fishing launches, catering to a broader segment of the marine market.
McDell Marine Today: A Continuing Presence
While some sources suggest a cessation of core boat-building activities around 2019, McDell Marine maintains a long and respected history in the marine industry, with its website and contact information remaining active. The company's enduring legacy is evident in its continued influence and the expertise it brings to the broader marine sector. For instance, the collaboration with Mouldcam, a company specializing in CNC cut patterns and moulds, indicates a strategic alignment or expansion into specialized marine manufacturing services.
Under the leadership of figures like General Manager Bill Howlett, who worked alongside founder Kim McDell and Stephen Fisher, McDell Marine has consistently demonstrated its ability to adapt and contribute to the marine world. The boats they have built, particularly those from Farr Yacht Design and Oyster Marine, continue to be valued for their quality and performance, appealing to discerning owners who seek reliable and well-constructed vessels for racing, cruising, or luxury adventures. The strong reputation forged over decades means that vessels carrying the McDell Marine mark are recognized for their Kiwi heritage of precision and seaworthiness.
