From its origins as a supplier to the marine industry, Southern Ocean Shipyard Ltd. evolved into a revered builder of high-quality, capable offshore yachts. Though its operational period spanned less than three decades, the vessels crafted in its Poole, Dorset, shipyard left a lasting impression on the yachting world, known for their robust construction and seaworthy designs.
The foundation of what would become Southern Ocean Shipyard Ltd. traces back to 1959, when Frank King and George Davies established Southern Ocean Supplies Ltd. in Poole, Dorset, England. Initially, the company's focus was on marine supplies, but it soon pivoted towards boat building, eventually changing its name to Southern Ocean Shipyard Ltd. This shift marked the beginning of a commitment to producing yachts designed for the rigors of ocean voyaging.
A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Evolution
Southern Ocean Shipyard operated from 1959 until 1987. A significant transition in their manufacturing came with the widespread adoption of fiberglass. Southern Ocean yachts were notably constructed using hand-laid marine grade glassfibre reinforced polyester, often exceeding the stringent standards set by Lloyds. This construction method became a hallmark of their boats, contributing to their reputation for exceptional strength and durability, a crucial quality for offshore cruising.
Design Philosophy and Enduring Identity
Southern Ocean Shipyard earned a strong reputation for building high-quality, capable, and timeless ocean-going yachts. They were particularly known for their cruisers, ketches, and motorsailers. The shipyard aimed to produce vessels that offered both performance and comfortable cruising capabilities, appealing to discerning owners seeking robust yachts for extended voyages or luxurious private use.
Over its history, Southern Ocean Shipyard collaborated with notable naval architects. Doug Peterson, a renowned yacht designer, was responsible for the popular Contention series, including the Contention 30 and Contention 33. Richard Rascoe is also credited as a designer for some of their models. While the famous maxi yacht Stormvogel, designed by E.G. Van de Stadt, was a wooden vessel built prior to Southern Ocean Shipyard's main fiberglass era, the British yard's work often resonated with the spirit of such high-performance ocean-going designs, solidifying their standing in the offshore yachting segment.
Iconic Vessels and Ocean Legends
Southern Ocean Shipyard produced several models that achieved considerable recognition among the sailing community. Among the most iconic are the Ocean 60 and its luxurious variant, the Ocean 62. The Ocean 60 became a "cult classic" and a highly successful charter boat, with approximately thirty units built. The Ocean 62, a later development, offered a private, more opulent iteration of the successful Ocean 60 design. These models, often configured as ketches, were praised for their capable and enduring hull forms, making them well-suited for serious offshore sailing.
Other significant models in their portfolio included the Southern Ocean 71, the Dixon 65, and the GALLANT 53, further showcasing their diverse range of capable offshore yachts. These vessels, known for their solid construction and robust performance, cemented Southern Ocean Shipyard's legacy in the custom and semi-custom luxury yacht market.
The Enduring Spirit
Southern Ocean Shipyard Ltd. ceased operations in 1987. While the original company is no longer building new yachts, its impact continues through the robust vessels that still sail the world's oceans today. Owners of Southern Ocean yachts often form a passionate community, cherishing these well-built cruisers for their seaworthiness, comfortable accommodations, and enduring design. The legacy of Frank King and George Davies' shipyard lives on in every mile sailed by their ocean-ready creations.
