Nestled on the picturesque Penobscot Bay in Rockland, Maine, Stuart Marine Corp. has quietly carved out a distinguished niche in the marine industry. Since its inception in 1982, the company has become synonymous with the meticulous handcrafting of classic and durable power and sailboats under twenty-five feet, embodying the enduring spirit of traditional boatbuilding.
The Origin Story
Stuart Marine Corp. began its journey in 1982 with a clear vision: to manufacture classic one-design sailboats. Founded by Dave Whittier, who currently serves as the company's president, the initial focus was on beloved designs that offered timeless appeal and reliable performance. Among their very first offerings were the iconic O'Day Rhodes 19 and the O'Day Mariner, classic one-design sailboats that set the precedent for the quality and traditional ethos that would define Stuart Marine. This foundational commitment to reproducing proven designs laid the groundwork for their reputation as custodians of maritime heritage.
History and Evolution
From its origins as a specialist in one-design sailboats, Stuart Marine steadily evolved. Over two decades, the company expanded its capabilities and product lines, growing into a premier builder of both sail and powerboats under twenty-five feet on the Maine Coast. This evolution saw them broaden their portfolio beyond the initial O'Day designs to include their own powerboat models, such as the Stuart 19, alongside other revered classic sailboat reproductions. This strategic expansion allowed Stuart Marine to cater to a wider array of boating enthusiasts while maintaining its core commitment to quality and classic aesthetics.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Stuart Marine's reputation in the sailing world is built on its dedication to exceptional quality, value, and a meticulous, handcrafted approach to boatbuilding. The company prides itself on handcrafting each vessel from start to finish within its Rockland facility. Their boats are renowned for their robust construction, featuring traditional hand-laminated fiberglass hulls, unsinkable foam flotation, and double-hull construction, ensuring durability and safety. Only proven, name-brand suppliers are used for components, further guaranteeing the integrity of each boat.
While Stuart Marine builds fiberglass boats, their identity is deeply rooted in the classic designs of yesteryear. They are celebrated for faithfully reproducing designs from renowned naval architects. For instance, they produce fiberglass versions of the Buzzards Bay 14, originally designed by the legendary L. Francis Herreshoff. Similarly, they build the Dark Harbor 17 1/2, a distinguished design from B.B. Crowninshield. This focus allows them to offer timeless designs with the benefits of modern fiberglass construction. Their Stuart 19 powerboat, for example, embodies the "Maine work boat" aesthetic, designed for comfortable and fuel-efficient operation with modest outboard power. The Buzzards Bay 14, meanwhile, is lauded as a "sturdy, safe, comfortable, seaworthy little sailboat that anyone from age 9 to 90 can handle."
Iconic Models and Legacy
Throughout its history, Stuart Marine has produced several significant and beloved models:
- Rhodes 19: This classic one-design daysailer was one of the foundational models for Stuart Marine, representing their commitment to traditional sailing.
- Mariner: Another classic O'Day design, the Mariner offers a bit more versatility, serving as an overnighter or daysailer, and remains a testament to Stuart Marine's early focus on accessible one-design sailing.
- Buzzards Bay 14: A highly regarded fiberglass reproduction of L. Francis Herreshoff's elegant and capable design, this daysailer is celebrated for its ease of handling and seaworthiness.
- Dark Harbor 17 1/2: Stuart Marine's fiberglass rendition of B.B. Crowninshield's design, this larger daysailer offers a blend of beauty and comfort with a more spacious cockpit.
- JC 9 / Stuart 9: This dinghy, known for its double-hull construction, has become a popular choice for various uses, highlighting the company's versatility in smaller craft.
- Stuart 19: An example of their own powerboat designs, the Stuart 19 reflects the practical and robust characteristics of a classic Maine workboat, adapted for recreational use.
The consistent quality and enduring designs have fostered a lasting appeal for Stuart Marine boats, contributing to a strong demand for both new and used models. The company even maintains a "Used Boat Index" on its website, a testament to the longevity of its vessels and the active community of owners.
The Builder Today
Today, Stuart Marine Corp. continues to operate from its established location at 38 Gordon Drive in the Industrial Park of Rockland, Maine. Dave Whittier remains at the helm as president. The company maintains its focus as a premier builder of power and sail boats under twenty-five feet, upholding its reputation for handcrafted quality and value.
Stuart Marine's modern boats continue to appeal to discerning individuals who appreciate classic lines, robust construction, and a more traditional boating experience. Owners value the exceptional build quality, the inherent seaworthiness of the designs, and the enduring nature of their vessels. While not a large-scale production builder, Stuart Marine's commitment to traditional methods and classic designs ensures that each boat delivered carries forward a legacy of Maine craftsmanship and maritime excellence.