For over two decades, Montgomery Marine Products, founded by the visionary Jerry Montgomery, carved out a distinguished niche in the American yachting landscape. From its California base, the company became synonymous with thoughtfully designed, robust, and exceptionally capable trailerable sailboats, leaving an indelible mark on enthusiasts of small cruising vessels.
Montgomery Marine Products was founded in 1969 by Jerry Montgomery, a dedicated boat builder and designer. Montgomery's vision was to create high-quality sailboats, and his company quickly specialized in the design and manufacture of fiberglass sailboats. The first design to emerge from Montgomery Marine Products was the Montgomery 12, a sailing dinghy introduced to the market in 1972. This initial offering set the tone for the company's future, emphasizing practical and well-engineered designs for recreational sailors.
History and Evolution
Operating from 1969 until 1995, Montgomery Marine Products established itself as a reputable American boat builder. Based in California, the company focused exclusively on fiberglass construction, a material that allowed for durable and relatively low-maintenance vessels. While there were no notable corporate mergers or acquisitions, the company's continuous innovation in small sailboat design marked its evolution. Jerry Montgomery's dedication ensured a consistent output of new models throughout these years, earning a loyal following among sailors seeking quality and performance in a compact package.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Montgomery Marine Products developed a strong reputation in the sailing world for producing high-quality, capable, and eminently trailerable sailboats. The builder was known for crafting boats that offered a surprising blend of performance and comfort, making them popular choices for both day sailing and extended cruising. A hallmark of many Montgomery designs, such as the Montgomery 15, was their fractional rigged sail plan, which allowed for efficient performance in light winds while remaining easily adjustable for various conditions. Later fixed keel models also featured an innovative fiberglass fin filled with lead, a testament to Jerry Montgomery's continuous refinement of his designs. Unlike many builders who rely on external naval architects, Jerry Montgomery himself was the primary designer behind Montgomery Marine Products' entire range, a testament to his comprehensive understanding of what made a successful small cruiser. His designs were often characterized by their sturdy build, good handling characteristics, and efficient use of interior space.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Throughout its history, Montgomery Marine Products introduced several iconic models that continue to be cherished by owners today. Following the Montgomery 12, the company produced a range of popular designs, including the Montgomery 15, Montgomery 17, and the Montgomery 23. The Montgomery 17, for instance, was available in both conventional cruiser and flush deck daysailer configurations, showcasing the versatility of Montgomery's designs. These boats were not just well-built; they were designed to be genuinely capable cruisers, despite their modest size, often praised for their seaworthiness and comfortable accommodations. While specific production numbers are not readily available, the enduring presence of these models on the water and the active owner communities attest to their success and impact on the trailerable sailboat market.
The Builder Today
Montgomery Marine Products ceased operations as a boat builder in 1995. However, the legacy of Jerry Montgomery and his designs continues. Jerry Montgomery remains active in the marine industry, having transitioned to operating a rigging company. Furthermore, he is involved in the design of racing kayaks and outrigger canoes, through companies such as Huki Outrigger Canoes. His influence on sailboat design persists, with companies like Sage Marine building newer designs by Jerry Montgomery, including the Sage 15, Sage 17, and SageCat sailboats. The strong owner community surrounding Montgomery sailboats, evidenced by active groups like the Montgomery Sailboats Owners Group, underscores the lasting appeal and enduring quality of these well-regarded vessels. For many, owning a Montgomery boat is an experience defined by a connection to a classic design, a capable cruiser, and a testament to the vision of Jerry Montgomery.
