Tes Sailboats, officially known as Stocznia TES - YACHT, was founded in 1980 by the visionary Tomasz Siwik. Siwik, a man of multifaceted talents, is described as a sailor, constructor, and designer, bringing a holistic understanding of yachting to his entrepreneurial endeavor. His initial dream and motivation were to design sailing boats that were not only functional but also capable of satisfying the needs of even the most demanding cruising sailors. While the specific "first boat" model isn't explicitly named, the company's early focus was on crafting vessels for the charter market, with an early model becoming a favorite among Mazurian sailors. This early success laid the groundwork for Tes Yacht's enduring legacy of practical and comfortable cruising designs.
History and Evolution
From its inception in 1980, Tes Sailboats has steadily evolved, marking its history with a continuous stream of new models and accolades. A significant milestone occurred in 1998 with the introduction of the TES 550, a model that further solidified the shipyard's reputation. The TES 28 Magnam, another notable design, first appeared in 2010, showcasing the company's ongoing innovation.
A crucial aspect of Tes Yacht's evolution has been its commitment to modern materials. Their yachts are predominantly constructed from fiberglass, a testament to their focus on durability and performance. The company is known for the high quality of materials used in each of its models, ensuring meticulous attention to detail and tasteful finishes. While sailing yachts remain the dominant part of their production, Tes Yacht has also diversified, offering motorboat variants of many of their models. The shipyard, Jacht Plast, is based in Okuniew, Poland, and has recently expanded its reach, including efforts to introduce "next generation fast cruising sailboats" to the North American market through Tes Yacht Canada.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Tes Yacht has cultivated a strong reputation in the sailing world, primarily known for its meticulous craftsmanship and the creation of functional cruising yachts. Their boats are celebrated for their spacious interiors, thoughtful design, and overall quality. Tes Sailboats are often characterized as "fast cruising sailboats" that offer a blend of performance and comfort, making them ideal for family cruising.
A hallmark of Tes Yacht's design philosophy is its emphasis on flexible and ergonomic interiors, often featuring an open-plan layout to maximize the sense of space below deck. This approach ensures that even their smaller models provide ample living areas for comfortable extended stays. A defining characteristic of the Tes brand is that Tomasz Siwik himself is the sole naval architect and designer behind all Tes sailboats. He is a naval architect trained in Gdansk, personally overseeing the design and construction to ensure each yacht embodies the brand's core values. This singular vision has undoubtedly contributed to the consistent identity and quality associated with Tes yachts.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Over the years, Tes Yacht has produced a range of significant and successful models that have contributed to its lasting legacy. Among these, the TES 550 stands out as an early success from 1998. More recently, the TES 246 Versus and the TES 28 Magnam have become prominent examples of the shipyard's capabilities. The TES 246 Versus is specifically highlighted for its "excellent nautical qualities" and suitability as a family cruiser, emphasizing safety aspects in its construction. The TES 28 Magnam is praised for its "well-thought-out design" that makes it easy to handle on the water, combined with a "stunning hull line". Other notable models include the TES 20 Mico, TES 678, and TES 720. Currently, Tes Yacht has three models in production, ranging from 5 to 9 meters in length. The impact of Tes yachts is evident in their appeal to demanding cruising sailors and families, offering a comfortable and high-quality ownership experience.
The Builder Today
Today, Stocznia TES - YACHT remains an active and respected boat builder, maintaining its headquarters at Okuniew, Poland. The company operates as TES YACHT SP. Z O.O.. Having been founded in 1980, Tes yachts were still actively in production as of 2022, showcasing their enduring presence in the marine industry. The modern Tes boats continue to appeal to cruising sailors and families seeking comfortable, well-built vessels. Owners frequently praise the quality of construction, the spacious interiors, and the overall value for money that Tes yachts offer. While specific details about a formal owner community are not readily available, the consistent appeal of their designs and the positive feedback suggest a loyal base of owners who appreciate the brand's commitment to quality and thoughtful design.
