Nebe Boatworks was a family-run boat building company established in Hout Bay, South Africa, in 1970. Founded by Gerfried Nebe, the company emerged during a vibrant period for South African boatbuilding. While details about Gerfried Nebe's specific background are not widely documented, the nature of a "family boat building company" suggests a foundation in hands-on craftsmanship and a dedication to the art of boat construction. The initial vision was likely rooted in producing sturdy and reliable vessels, a characteristic that would come to define some of their most notable projects.
History and Evolution
Nebe Boatworks operated for a quarter-century, from 1970 until its eventual liquidation around 1995. The company was active throughout the 1970s and 1980s, establishing itself as a respected builder in the South African yachting scene. A significant transition occurred in the early 1990s when Gerfried Nebe sold the company to a friend. Unfortunately, this new chapter was short-lived, as Nebe Boatworks was liquidated a few years after the sale, ceasing operations completely by the mid-1990s. By May 2010, the company was no longer in existence.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Nebe Boatworks earned a reputation for constructing sturdy, capable cruising yachts, often associated with the robust "Hout Bay designs" that favored durability over fleeting trends. The company was known for its hands-on, family-oriented approach to boat building.
A crucial aspect of Nebe Boatworks' identity was its collaboration with renowned naval architect Dudley Dix. Dix designed several boats that Nebe Boatworks would bring to life. While specific construction techniques are not extensively detailed, the building of the Shearwater 39 indicates the company's proficiency in both timber and fiberglass (GRP) construction, with a wooden hull often serving as a plug for GRP molds. This adaptability allowed them to cater to various client preferences and material advancements of the era.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The most iconic and enduring model associated with Nebe Boatworks is undoubtedly the Shearwater 39, a classic cruiser designed by Dudley Dix. Gerfried Nebe himself commissioned this design, and his personal boat, "Gabriel," built in wood, served as the initial hull from which production GRP molds were taken. The Shearwater 39 proved to be a successful design, with over 25 units built in South Africa, many by Nebe Boatworks. These vessels were built for serious cruising, with examples like "Centime" (built 1990) and "Talitha" (built 1992) having undertaken extensive voyages across the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, underscoring the durability and bluewater capabilities of Nebe-built yachts.
Beyond the Shearwater 39, Nebe Boatworks also built other notable designs, including the Cape 28. Furthermore, Neels Lund of Nebe Boats commissioned the "Oppikat," a catamaran specifically designed by Dudley Dix for children, showcasing a diverse interest in various yacht types. The company's legacy is primarily carried forward by these robust, well-built cruising yachts that continue to ply waters worldwide, a testament to the quality and enduring design principles embodied by Nebe Boatworks.
The Builder Today
Nebe Boatworks is no longer in business, having ceased operations and been liquidated in the mid-1990s. Despite its closure, the boats they constructed, particularly the Dudley Dix-designed Shearwater 39s, continue to be sailed and cherished by their owners. The ongoing adventures of these vessels serve as a living testament to the craftsmanship and design principles upheld by Gerfried Nebe and his team during their quarter-century in Hout Bay. While a formal owner community for Nebe Boatworks itself may not exist, the robust nature of their boats has fostered a dedicated following for models like the Shearwater 39, ensuring that the work of this South African boatbuilder remains appreciated on the world's oceans.
