In the rich tapestry of North American yachting, certain names stand out for their enduring quality and innovative spirit. Among them, Ontario Yachts, a Canadian boat builder, has carved a distinct niche, known for its high-quality construction and adaptability, navigating the ebbs and flows of the marine industry for over six decades.
The Origin Story
Ontario Yachts was founded in 1961 by Dirk Kneulman Sr. and his wife, Maria Kneulman, in Burlington, Ontario, Canada. Kneulman Sr., born in Amsterdam, Holland, in 1922, brought a craftsman's dedication to boat building. The company began as a modest operation, initially focusing on wooden dinghies, kayaks, and crafting Sitka spruce spars and sail battens. This early foundation in traditional wooden boat construction showcased Kneulman's commitment to quality and precise handiwork.
History and Evolution
A pivotal moment in Ontario Yachts' history was its transition to composite materials, particularly fiberglass. Recognizing the future of yachting lay in these advanced composites, Dirk Kneulman Sr. travelled to Dwyer Boats in Barrington, Rhode Island, to gain expertise in fiberglass construction. This forward-thinking move allowed the company to embrace modern manufacturing techniques and expand its capabilities.
Ontario Yachts established a strong reputation for high-quality composite boat building, initially operating out of Oakville, then Hamilton, and more recently Burlington, Ontario. A significant leadership transition occurred in 1986 when Dirk Kneulman Jr. and Don Oakie took the helm, continuing to uphold the company's commitment to quality and innovation.
The company's adaptability proved crucial during challenging times. Ontario Yachts was one of the few boat builders to successfully weather the boating industry slump that began in the mid-1980s. A key strategy for their survival and continued operation was diversifying into non-marine applications. Notably, the company built the fiberglass support for the pitcher's mound at Toronto’s Skydome Stadium in 1989, a testament to their versatility in composite manufacturing.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Ontario Yachts has earned a reputation in the sailing world for producing high-quality, well-built vessels. They are particularly known for their expertise in composite construction, delivering boats that are both robust and performant. The company was recognized as a top builder for Snipe class dinghies and later became the North American builder for the highly regarded Etchells class sailboats.
The design philosophy often blended spirited sailing performance with practical interior layouts, offering ample headroom and open spaces, as seen in models like the Ontario 32. While specific collaborations with numerous famous naval architects beyond the original designers of the one-design classes are not widely detailed, the company's commitment to established designs is evident. For instance, the Ontario 32 model, a notable cruising sailboat, is described as a "Legendary C&C design," indicating a reliance on proven and respected naval architecture. The Etchells, a strict one-design keelboat, was designed by Skip Etchells in 1966, known for its fast, stable, and sleek characteristics.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Throughout its history, Ontario Yachts has been responsible for building several significant and successful boat models. The Ontario 32 stands out as an iconic cruising sailboat. This center cockpit vessel is often highlighted for its spirited sailing performance combined with a comfortable interior, featuring generous headroom and an open layout, making it suitable for overnight cruising.
In the realm of one-design racing, Ontario Yachts played a crucial role as a premier builder for Snipe dinghies and later became the North American builder for the Etchells class. The Etchells, a highly respected one-design keelboat, is celebrated for its competitive yet comfortable sailing characteristics, adhering to strict design principles to ensure fair racing. The company has also produced the Sonar 23.
These models underscore Ontario Yachts' versatility in constructing various types of sailboats, from cruising yachts to competitive racers, all built to a high standard. Their ability to deliver on diverse design requirements has cemented their legacy in the Canadian marine industry.
The Builder Today
Ontario Yachts has demonstrated remarkable longevity in the marine industry. Since 1986, the company has been under the leadership of Dirk Kneulman Jr. and Don Oakie. While an older website mentioned in the initial data is no longer active, Ontario Yachts maintains a presence through their Facebook page, which serves as a current online contact point. The company's operations continued as a boat builder through 2018, and they remain active in services like boat repair and custom composite projects, including significant non-marine endeavors.
Their modern appeal extends to those seeking quality composite work, whether for new builds, repairs, or specialized projects beyond the marine sector. The company's long-standing history and consistent reputation for quality likely foster a community of owners who appreciate durable and well-crafted vessels. Current contact information for Ontario Yachts, including a phone number and email for inquiries, indicates their continued operation and commitment to the industry. From its humble beginnings building wooden dinghies to its proficiency in advanced composites, Ontario Yachts has truly left an indelible mark on Canadian boat building.
