The genesis of Roughwater Boats can be traced back to the early 1960s, specifically 1962, with the vision of Ed Blanchard in Washington State, USA. Blanchard initiated the brand by constructing the very first Roughwater vessels as wooden powerboats. Following these initial endeavors, the baton passed to George McQueen of Vancouver, British Columbia, who continued the tradition of building wooden powerboats. McQueen, through his company McQueen Boat Works in Richmond, BC, collaborated with the renowned American naval architect Ed Monk Sr., bringing Monk's designs to life in wood.
A pivotal figure in Roughwater's history emerged in Hal Paris, a retired Air Force pilot. Paris, leveraging contacts he had made with boat builders in Taiwan during his military service, decided to transition into the boat importing business. His ambition led to the introduction of the Roughwater 35 in 1969. This model, while initially built of wood, quickly shifted to fiberglass construction, marking a significant evolution for the brand. Paris established a strategic office in Marina Del Rey, California, setting up a network of dealerships across the United States to distribute the Roughwater Boats.
History and Evolution
The transition from traditional wooden construction to fiberglass was a key milestone for Roughwater Boats, allowing for increased production and potentially more consistent build quality. This change solidified their position in the growing leisure boat market.
In the mid-1970s, Roughwater diversified its offerings with the introduction of a long-range cruising sailboat, the Roughwater 33. This distinctive sailing vessel was designed by the esteemed naval architect Thomas Gilmer.
The company's trajectory saw a significant shift in 1983 when Hal Paris sold Roughwater Boats to Marvin Finell of Beverly Hills, California. Finell entrusted the management of the business to his nephew, but this new stewardship proved short-lived, and the company soon faced difficulties, eventually returning to Hal Paris in 1986.
Undeterred, Paris promptly re-established operations. A few months after regaining control, he forged an agreement with the C.C. Chen Boatyard in Taiwan. This partnership was crucial for the continuation of the Roughwater line, encompassing models such as the 33, 37, 41, and 42. This collaboration sustained the production of Roughwater Boats until 1990.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Roughwater Boats carved out a reputation primarily as a builder of sturdy, reliable powerboats, though they notably ventured into the sailboat market with the Roughwater 33. Their powerboat designs often featured practical hull types, including deep vee, displacement, modified vee, and semi-displacement, catering to a range of cruising needs. This versatility in hull design suggests a focus on seaworthiness and efficiency, characteristics often sought by those undertaking coastal or longer-range voyages.
The brand's identity was significantly shaped by its collaborations with respected naval architects. Ed Monk Sr., known for his pragmatic and efficient designs, contributed to the early wooden powerboats and later models like the Roughwater 41 Pilothouse. Thomas Gilmer's involvement in the Roughwater 33 sailboat lent the brand credibility in the sailing community, showcasing a commitment to well-designed cruising yachts.
Iconic Models and Legacy
While specific production numbers are not widely documented, several Roughwater models achieved notable recognition and continue to be sought after in the pre-owned market.
The Roughwater 35, introduced by Hal Paris, was instrumental in the company's transition to fiberglass, becoming a foundational powerboat for the brand.
The Roughwater 33 sailboat stands out as a unique offering in a powerboat-dominated line-up. Designed for long-range cruising by Thomas Gilmer, it demonstrated Roughwater's ambition beyond its core competency.
Other popular models that defined the Roughwater brand included the Roughwater 36, 37, 41, and 42. The Roughwater 41 Pilothouse, designed by Ed Monk Sr., was a particularly enduring model, built from 1973 through 1985, known for its practical pilothouse layout suitable for various conditions. These models, often categorized as trawlers or motor yachts, were appreciated for their robust construction and practical designs suitable for coastal and sometimes more open-water cruising.
The Enduring Legacy
Roughwater Boats ceased its manufacturing operations in 1990 with the conclusion of the partnership between Hal Paris and the C.C. Chen Boatyard. However, the legacy of Roughwater continues today through the boats themselves. Decades after their initial build, Roughwater vessels remain a common sight in marinas and continue to be listed for sale on the used boat market.
These boats are often cherished by their owners for their solid build quality, functional layouts, and suitability for comfortable cruising. While the company no longer builds new vessels, the existing fleet stands as a testament to the vision of its founders and the designers who shaped its distinct character within the marine industry. Owners of Roughwater boats often form close-knit communities, sharing knowledge and passion for these enduring cruisers, reinforcing their lasting impact on the yachting world.
