North Sea Craft, often associated with its popular "Samphire" range, emerged as a notable boat builder in the United Kingdom, leaving a distinctive mark on the sailing world with its sturdy, traditionally styled fiberglass yachts. While precise details about its founding remain somewhat elusive, the company became prominent in the mid-1970s, establishing a reputation for producing seaworthy and characterful vessels that combined classic aesthetics with modern GRP construction.
North Sea Craft's primary period of production for its most recognized models, the Samphire range and the Tamarisk cutters, began in the mid-1970s. The Samphire 23, for instance, commenced production around 1977. While the initial structure of the original North Sea Craft as a company isn't extensively documented, it served as the original builder for both the Samphire and Tamarisk lines. Over time, the production of these successful designs appears to have expanded beyond the original builder, with some later boats being constructed by other entities, and molds for models like the Tamarisk 24 reportedly traveling extensively. A later company named "NORTH SEA CRAFT LIMITED" was incorporated in 2005 and subsequently dissolved in 2014, but this appears to be distinct from the original prolific building period.
Design Philosophy and Identity
North Sea Craft developed a clear identity rooted in traditional yacht design, skillfully translating classic lines into modern GRP construction. The builder is widely recognized for its "Samphire" range, which includes models like the Samphire 23, 26, and 29, known as sea-kindly coastal cruisers. These vessels typically featured a long keel, providing excellent directional stability, a characteristic appreciated by cruisers.
Even more distinctively, North Sea Craft built the renowned Tamarisk cutters. These were designed as traditional gaff-rigged topsail cutters, with their aesthetic based on classic working boats, such as the Falmouth working boat that inspired the Tamarisk 24. This commitment to traditional design, combined with fiberglass construction, allowed for the durability and ease of maintenance of modern materials while retaining the charm and sailing characteristics of vintage yachts.
The consistent hand behind the most iconic North Sea Craft designs was naval architect David M. Cannell. He is credited with designing the Samphire 23, 26, and 29 models, as well as the entire Tamarisk range, including the Tamarisk 24. Cannell's designs for North Sea Craft boats were celebrated for being both fast and seaworthy, embodying a robust and reliable nature. His influence ensured a cohesive design language across the builder's offerings.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The most significant contributions of North Sea Craft to the marine industry are undoubtedly the Samphire and Tamarisk boat lines.
The Samphire range offered well-proportioned sailing yachts designed for comfortable coastal cruising. The Samphire 23, launched in 1977, is a compact yet capable vessel, praised for its solid build and good directional stability thanks to its long keel. This model provided an accessible entry point for those seeking a traditional-looking cruiser. Larger siblings included the Samphire 26 and Samphire 29, expanding on the successful formula.
The Tamarisk cutters represent the pinnacle of North Sea Craft's traditional design philosophy. The Tamarisk 24, in particular, is an iconic gaff-rigged topsail cutter. Designed by David Cannell, it was built with a deep forefoot and a long keel, reflecting the lines of classic working boats. These cutters gained a reputation for their blend of traditional charm with robust sailing performance, proving both fast and eminently seaworthy. Other models in the Tamarisk line included the Tamarisk 19 and Tamarisk 22, with the 24 being a stretched and roomier version of the 22.
While specific production numbers are not readily available, the continued presence of these boats on the used market decades after their initial build speaks volumes about their enduring popularity and robust construction. Their impact lies in demonstrating that classic aesthetics and capable offshore performance could be successfully integrated with the practicalities of modern fiberglass construction.
The Builder Today
As a distinct boat-building entity creating new vessels, North Sea Craft (Samphire) does not appear to be active in the same capacity as its original prolific period. The models they produced, particularly the Samphire range and Tamarisk cutters, have, however, achieved a near-cult status among enthusiasts who appreciate their classic lines, sturdy construction, and capable sailing characteristics. The designs continue to be admired, with many original boats still sailing today, a testament to their build quality. These vessels appeal to sailors who value timeless design over modern trends, seeking a genuine sailing experience rooted in tradition. Ownership often comes with a strong sense of community among those who cherish these enduring GRP classics.
