Quickstep Sailboats, based in Bristol, Rhode Island, emerged onto the American sailboat manufacturing scene in the mid-1980s, with its operations commencing around 1985. The company was founded and owned by Gary Lannigan, who established Quickstep Sailboats at 47 Gooding Avenue, Bristol, RI. While the specific vision or background of Lannigan isn't widely detailed, the company's subsequent production pointed towards a focus on smaller, capable cruisers designed for ease of ownership and trailerability. Quickstep Sailboats primarily built fiberglass vessels, a standard material for production sailboats of that era.
A Fleet of Capable Cruisers: Design and Evolution
Quickstep Sailboats became known for producing a small but notable fleet of sailboats, primarily the Quickstep 19, Quickstep 21, and Quickstep 24. These models were consistently designed as cruisers, emphasizing comfortable accommodations and ease of handling for recreational sailing.
The Quickstep 24 holds a particularly interesting history, as its design by Edward S. Brewer (Ted Brewer) originated in 1976, predating Quickstep Sailboats' formation. This design was initially intended for aluminum construction, though this concept never fully materialized. Over its production life, the Quickstep 24 was built by several different companies, including CE Ryder, The Anchorage, and Shannon Yachts, before Quickstep Sailboats took on its construction. It was noted for its distinctive canoe stern design and a practical 7-foot cockpit, making it a popular choice among its owners.
Following the Quickstep 24, Quickstep Sailboats introduced newer designs. The Quickstep 21, designed by Michael Price as a cruiser, saw its prototype built in 1987, with the first production boat launching in 1988. The Quickstep 19, a compact pocket cruiser, designed by Stuart Windley, followed in 1989. The molds for the Quickstep 19/20 were later sold to "Quickstep yachts," indicating a transfer of assets or intellectual property that is common in the boatbuilding industry, particularly for smaller manufacturers.
Collaboration with Noted Naval Architects
A testament to Quickstep Sailboats' commitment to sound design was its collaboration with respected naval architects of the time. The company did not rely on a single in-house designer but rather commissioned talented individuals for their models:
- Edward S. Brewer (Ted Brewer): Credited with the design of the Quickstep 24, a well-regarded cruiser with a distinctive canoe stern.
- Michael Price: Responsible for the design of the Quickstep 21, a trailerable cruiser that entered production in the late 1980s.
- Stuart Windley: The naval architect behind the Quickstep 19, designed as a versatile pocket cruiser.
These collaborations ensured that Quickstep boats, despite their relatively modest size and focus on trailerability, benefited from professional and thoughtful design principles.
Legacy and the Owners' Community
Quickstep Sailboats is no longer in business. However, their legacy endures through the boats they built and the dedicated community of owners who continue to sail and maintain them. The Quickstep 24, in particular, occasionally appears on the used boat market, a testament to its enduring design and construction.
Perhaps the most significant aspect of Quickstep Sailboats' lasting impact is the vibrant and active "Quickstep Owners' Group." This online community serves as a central hub for Quickstep sailboat enthusiasts, providing a platform for owners to share information, offer advice, and celebrate their vessels. This strong owner community highlights the appeal of Quickstep boats, which, though produced by a company no longer active, continue to offer enjoyable and accessible sailing experiences to this day. The continued existence of these boats and their dedicated owners speaks volumes about the practical and appealing designs that Quickstep Sailboats brought to the marine industry during its operational years.
