Pheon Yachts Ltd. was established in 1972 by John Dandridge and his family in South Heighton, United Kingdom. The Dandridges embarked on a venture to produce high-quality sailing yachts, quickly becoming renowned for their finishing standards. Their foundational product, and indeed their most recognized contribution to the sailing world, was the Vancouver 27. This pivotal design did not originate with Pheon, however. It was conceived by the talented Canadian naval architect Robert B. Harris, who designed the Vancouver 27 as the inaugural vessel in what would become a celebrated line of cruisers. While the very first Vancouver 27 was a wooden, one-off build in 1973, Pheon Yachts secured the rights to construct them, launching their first GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) Vancouver in 1976.
History and Evolution
From its inception in 1972, Pheon Yachts Ltd. carved out a niche for itself by focusing on the robust and highly regarded Vancouver 27. The company’s operational model involved having the boat hulls molded elsewhere, which were then transported to their South Heighton facility for an exceptional level of finishing. This approach underscored Pheon’s commitment to quality, distinguishing their vessels in the market. The company operated for over a decade, but by the mid-1980s, a change in ownership occurred. In 1986, Pheon Yachts Ltd. encountered difficulties, leading to its assets, including the valuable Vancouver moulds, being acquired by Northshore Yachts (UK). This acquisition marked the end of Pheon Yachts as an independent builder, with Northshore taking over the production of the Vancouver range, thus continuing the legacy of the design.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Pheon Yachts Ltd. earned a strong reputation within the sailing community, primarily for its dedication to producing yachts finished to a remarkably high standard. While they did not originate the designs themselves, their meticulous approach to fitting out the hulls they received transformed them into highly desirable cruising vessels. The core of Pheon’s identity was inextricably linked to the designs of Robert B. Harris. Harris's Vancouver 27, the flagship model built by Pheon, was conceived as a "small but sturdy sailboat designed for ocean cruising". This ethos of seaworthiness and blue-water capability, coupled with Pheon's quality finishing, defined the brand. The collaboration with Harris meant that Pheon yachts were known for their practical layouts, robust construction, and ability to tackle demanding offshore conditions, appealing to sailors who prioritized safety and reliability over sheer speed.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The undisputed iconic model for Pheon Yachts Ltd. was the Vancouver 27. This compact yet immensely capable vessel became synonymous with the Pheon name. Designed by Robert B. Harris, the Vancouver 27 was engineered for serious ocean cruising, offering a blend of stability, comfort, and sturdy construction. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the success of Harris's design and Pheon's build quality. While specific production numbers by Pheon are not readily available, the Vancouver 27's influence extended beyond Pheon's tenure, as its production continued under Northshore Yachts. The vessel’s reputation for seaworthiness has led many Vancouver 27s to undertake extensive voyages, cementing their status as reliable bluewater cruisers within the industry. The design also laid the groundwork for larger models in the Vancouver series, further solidifying its impact.
The Builder Today
Pheon Yachts Ltd. ceased to operate as an independent entity in 1986, following the acquisition of its assets by Northshore Yachts (UK). Therefore, Pheon Yachts as a boat builder no longer exists. The legacy of the Vancouver line, however, continued under Northshore for many years. Northshore Yachts itself has since undergone further corporate changes, including being acquired by the Trafalgar Group. While Pheon Yachts is now a part of history, the robust and well-finished boats they produced, particularly the Vancouver 27s, continue to be cherished by their owners. These boats appeal to those seeking traditional, capable cruising yachts known for their solid build and offshore capabilities. Although there isn't a "Pheon Yachts" owner community today, owners of the Vancouver 27 and other Vancouver models form a strong and active community, united by their appreciation for these enduring designs and their proven performance on the world's oceans.
