Saare Yachts: Crafting Enduring Cruising Vessels from the Baltic Shores
In the serene, boat-building heartland of Saaremaa, an Estonian island nestled in the Baltic Sea, Saare Yachts has quietly established itself as a beacon of quality and craftsmanship in the world of yachting. Since its inception, the shipyard has focused on producing elegant, robust cruising yachts designed for discerning sailors who value seaworthiness, comfort, and enduring quality over mass production.
The genesis of Saare Yachts can be traced back to 1991, with the founding of the Republic of Estonia, when Saare Marine Industrie was established in Nasva as an Estonian-Swedish joint venture. In its earliest years, the company primarily engaged in building EXCEL sailing yachts for a Swedish shipyard. A significant shift occurred in 1993 when the company transitioned to Estonian ownership, operating under the name Saare Paat AS. This early period laid the groundwork for the meticulous craftsmanship that would become synonymous with the brand. Notably, Stig Nordblad, the respected founder of Finngulf Yachts, was instrumental in the concept and early development of the Saare brand, bringing a strong pedigree to the nascent company.
History and Evolution
The company’s journey through the marine industry has been one of steady growth and dedication to its core principles. Peeter Sääsk took on the role of Managing Director in 1997, guiding the shipyard's development. A pivotal moment arrived in 2007/2008 with the premiere of the Saare 41cc, the very first yacht to bear the Saare brand name, developed by Finnish designer Karl Johan Strahlmann. This marked the yard's full commitment to its own line of cruising yachts.
In 2016, a new chapter began for Saare Yachts when Yachtsport Eckernförde, owned by the German Nielsen family, acquired 100% ownership of the company. Thomas Nielsen, who had been the German distributor for Saare boats, took the helm alongside Peeter Sääsk as managing director. This acquisition further solidified the close cooperation between the Estonian shipyard and its German partners, leading to the rebranding as Saare Yachts OÜ.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Saare Yachts has carved out a distinct reputation in the sailing world for building "yachts of the very finest quality." They are renowned for their elegant cruising yachts, which are equally at home on coastal waters and distant seas, embodying "perfect craftsmanship in a real, small yacht shipyard." The shipyard's location on Saaremaa, a hub for Estonian boat building with a dedicated vocational school, underscores its commitment to nurturing skilled craftsmen.
The design philosophy prioritizes seaworthiness, comfort, and safety for serious cruisers. Saare yachts are not designed for "carefree Mediterranean holidays" but rather for those who appreciate robust construction and reliable performance, ideal for extended travel, particularly for couples. Each yacht is meticulously planned and built by qualified engineers and experienced craftsmen. Signature construction techniques include the use of lead keels, a mark of quality, and a watertight collision bulkhead between the sail storage and foredeck for enhanced safety. Early models, like the Saare 38, featured classic Khaya mahogany interiors, highlighting the yard's dedication to traditional, high-quality finishes. While specific collaborations with naval architects beyond Karl Johan Strahlmann for the 41cc are less publicized, the consistent quality suggests strong in-house expertise and careful selection of design partners.
Iconic Models and Legacy
While Saare Yachts is not a mass producer, building only around half a dozen boats annually, its models have garnered significant acclaim for their build quality and performance. The Saare 41cc holds the distinction of being the first model launched under the Saare brand in 2007/2008.
The Saare 38/38.2 is celebrated as the smallest yet remarkably comfortable and spacious yacht in their range, proving popular with Finnish sailors from its inception. For those seeking versatility and comfort for a crew of two or more, the Saare 41ac offers generous space and high-end customization.
The Saare 41.2 has been lauded by critics, with some calling it "one of the best cruisers you will ever sail" due to its refined design and strong pedigree. Stepping up in size, the Saare 46 is recognized as a top-tier bluewater cruiser, praised for its performance and luxurious fit-out. The Saare 47 stands as the new flagship model, designed for short, medium, or long voyages, offering various interior configurations, including options for a third cabin. It's known for sailing high, stiff, and fast, maintaining excellent control.
The company's focus is not on rapid expansion but on delivering individually tailored yachts that embody durability and timeless elegance.
The Builder Today
Today, Saare Yachts remains a "small, fine yacht shipyard", entirely owned by the Nielsen family from Eckernförde since 2016. Under the continued leadership of Thomas Nielsen and Peeter Sääsk, the company upholds its commitment to bespoke yacht building. Saare yachts appeal to discerning sailors worldwide who prioritize robust construction, comfortable living spaces, and exceptional sailing performance for serious cruising.
The ownership experience is characterized by a high degree of customization and a close relationship with the shipyard, ensuring each yacht meets the specific needs and wishes of its owner. The existence of an "Owners report" section on their website and anecdotal evidence of owners successfully navigating challenging conditions attest to a strong, supportive community and the yachts' proven capabilities. Saare Yachts continues to be a testament to Estonian craftsmanship combined with a European vision, producing elegant, high-quality cruising yachts designed to offer a truly rewarding and safe sailing experience for decades to come.
