From its inception in the mid-20th century, Rob Legg Yachts Ltd. carved a distinctive niche in the Australian marine industry, primarily renowned for its innovative and highly successful range of trailable yachts. Founded by Rob Legg, a dedicated yachtsman and skilled professional boat builder, the company's vision was to create accessible yet capable sailing craft that could be easily transported, broadening the horizons for countless enthusiasts. Though the original company ceased operations in 1988, its enduring designs and passionate owner community continue to celebrate its significant legacy.
The Origin Story
Rob Legg, a passionate yachtsman and professional boat builder, embarked on his boat-building journey over 50 years ago, driven by a desire to introduce a new concept in sailing. The company, Rob Legg Yachts Ltd., was established in 1950. Legg's initial experimentation led to the creation of his first prototype, the original RL24 named "Tiki 11." This groundbreaking vessel, constructed from timber, was instrumental in proving the viability of his designs. Notably, Tiki 11 was designed with self-righting capabilities, a crucial feature for trailable yachts at the time, and demonstrated its prowess by winning a cruising boat championship.
History and Evolution
Rob Legg Yachts Ltd. operated for nearly four decades, from 1950 until 1988. The period between 1972 and 1988 marked the peak of their production, particularly for the iconic RL24 model. While the initial prototype was timber, the company transitioned to more modern construction methods, likely fiberglass, for its production models, allowing for greater efficiency and consistency. The RL24 underwent several iterations, from the Mark I to the Mark IV, with the latter specifically engineered for racing, showcasing the company's adaptability and commitment to performance. The widespread success of the RL24, RL28, and RL34 models saw them sailing in every state of Australia, cementing Rob Legg Yachts' reputation.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Rob Legg Yachts earned a strong reputation for producing practical, performance-oriented trailable yachts that offered a compelling blend of speed and cruising comfort. A cornerstone of their design philosophy was the emphasis on self-righting characteristics, a critical safety and performance aspect for boats designed to be towed and launched easily. While specific naval architects beyond Rob Legg himself are not widely cited, his designs were clearly innovative and highly successful, leading to competitive boats that could even challenge established classes like Dragons. The brand became synonymous with versatility, allowing owners to race competitively one weekend and cruise comfortably with family the next.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The most significant and successful models in the company's history were undoubtedly the RL24, RL28, and RL34. The RL24 stands out as the most iconic, with a remarkable 628 boats built primarily by Rob Legg Yachts Pty Ltd in Australia between 1972 and 1988. These trailable yachts allowed owners unparalleled flexibility, enabling them to explore various waterways and participate in a vibrant racing scene. Beyond the popular trailable series, the company also produced variations, such as a fixed-keel coastal cruiser version of the RL34, demonstrating their breadth of design. The enduring appeal of these boats is a testament to Rob Legg's design acumen and the quality of construction.
The Builder Today
While Rob Legg Yachts Ltd. ceased manufacturing in 1988, the spirit and legacy of the brand live on through its dedicated community. A strong owner community, notably the RL24 Owners Association, actively preserves the history of these boats and fosters camaraderie among enthusiasts. The ongoing existence of fan-maintained websites and forums further underscores the lasting appeal and practicality of Rob Legg's designs. Modern owners of Rob Legg yachts are typically those who appreciate classic Australian yachting design, the flexibility of a trailable boat, and the strong community support. The ownership experience continues to be defined by robust, capable vessels that provide both thrilling sailing and enjoyable cruising opportunities.
