In the bustling Canadian marine industry of the 1980s, a notable, albeit short-lived, boat builder emerged: Ticon Yachts Ltd. From its inception in 1981 until its cessation of operations around 1988, Ticon Yachts carved out a niche by offering well-regarded sailing vessels, particularly cruiser-racers that resonated with North American sailors.
The Origin Story
Ticon Yachts Ltd. began its journey in 1981 under the leadership of David de Eyre. De Eyre's entrepreneurial vision led him to acquire the manufacturing rights to the TMI-30 from Texas Marine Industries. This vessel, a 30-foot monohull, had an interesting lineage, originally designed by Halsey Herreshoff as the Chrysler CY-30 for Chrysler Marine. The acquisition of these rights laid the foundation for Ticon's initial offering, the Ticon 30, which commenced production in Oakville, Ontario, Canada.
History and Evolution
Ticon Yachts quickly evolved its manufacturing strategy. By 1983, David de Eyre had arranged for the production of Ticon boats to shift to Kelt Marine in Aurora, Ontario. This was a significant move, as Kelt Marine had a reputation for quality construction and had previously manufactured successful models like the Kelt 7.60 and 8.50, even earning a "boat of the year" award at the 1980 Paris Boat Show. This collaboration likely allowed Ticon to leverage established production capabilities and maintain a standard of craftsmanship.
The company's short history also saw the introduction of new models. In the same year as the move to Aurora, Ticon Yachts began producing the T-27, a model that proved to be "quite successful". Additionally, a small number of the distinctive T-34 Cat Ketch were produced. Ticon Yachts, like many other boat manufacturers, ultimately faced challenges in the late 1980s, leading to the cessation of its operations around 1988.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Ticon Yachts, through its primary models, developed a reputation for offering practical and comfortable sailboats. The Ticon 30, for instance, was known for being surprisingly roomy and comfortable for a 30-footer, featuring an 11-foot beam and a displacement of 9,600 lbs. Its design, inherited from Halsey Herreshoff, positioned it as a moderate-weight sailboat with good stability.
The company also collaborated with notable naval architects. The successful T-27, a 27-foot monohull, was designed by Mark E. Swanson. For those seeking a more distinctive sailing experience, Ticon offered the T-34 Cat Ketch, a design by the renowned Canadian maritime architect Bruce Kirby, famous for his work on the Laser dinghy and other innovative designs. This diversity in design suggested Ticon's aim to cater to a range of sailors, from those seeking comfortable cruisers to those interested in more unique, performance-oriented rigs like the cat ketch.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Despite its brief tenure, Ticon Yachts produced several memorable models:
- Ticon 30: This was the foundational model for Ticon, a continuation of the popular Chrysler CY-30. Approximately 35 T-30s were produced during Ticon's operational period. It remained a popular choice for sailors looking for a robust and spacious cruiser-racer in its size class.
- T-27: Introduced in 1983, the T-27 quickly became a successful model for Ticon. Its widespread appeal indicated it met a significant demand in the market for a well-performing and manageable sailboat.
- T-34 Cat Ketch: While produced in smaller numbers, the T-34 stood out due to its distinctive cat ketch rig and the design pedigree of Bruce Kirby. This model showcased Ticon's willingness to embrace innovative designs beyond conventional sloop or cutter rigs. It was also sometimes referred to as the Georgian 34.
Ticon Yachts' legacy is rooted in its contribution to the Canadian recreational boating landscape during the 1980s. Though the company itself ceased operations, its boats, built with a focus on livability and capable performance, continue to be sailed and enjoyed by enthusiasts on the used boat market.
The Builder Today
Ticon Yachts Ltd. is no longer an active boat builder, having concluded its operations in 1988. However, the boats it produced, particularly the Ticon 30 and T-27, periodically appear on the used boat market. For many owners, these vessels represent a practical and affordable entry into cruising or club racing, reflecting the solid construction and thoughtful designs that characterized Ticon's brief but impactful run. The ownership experience today often involves a dedicated community of enthusiasts who maintain and share knowledge about these classic Canadian-built sailboats.
