Tylercraft, founded by Ted Tyler in 1959, holds a notable place in American yachting history as one of the earliest boat builders to wholeheartedly embrace fiberglass construction for its sailboat line. This pioneering spirit, coupled with a penchant for practical design features like bilge keels, set Tylercraft apart in its era.
The Origin Story
Ted Tyler established Tylercraft in the United States in 1959. While extensive details about Ted Tyler's early background are scarce, his vision was clear: to leverage the burgeoning potential of fiberglass in marine construction. This material, known for its durability and reduced maintenance compared to traditional wood, was a significant shift in boat building at the time. Tylercraft was among the first handful of U.S. builders to adopt fiberglass for its sailboats. The company's focus on innovative yet practical designs quickly became a hallmark.
History and Evolution
Tylercraft's history is defined by its embrace of new materials and a willingness to experiment. The transition to fiberglass construction from the outset positioned them as forward-thinking innovators. Many of Tylercraft's models notably featured bilge keels, a design choice reportedly influenced by Ted Tyler's favorable impression of similar Westerly models built in the UK. Bilge keels are designed to reduce a boat's tendency to roll and allow for easier drying out in shallow waters or on tidal moorings.
Another intriguing, though ultimately short-lived, innovation was Tylercraft's apparent offering of a Wankel engine for auxiliary power, making them potentially the first U.S. sailboat builder to do so. While the exact number of Wankel engines installed remains unknown and the concept quickly faded, it underscores Ted Tyler's experimental approach to boat design and propulsion.
In the 1970s, Tylercraft was acquired by Chichester Marine. However, Ted Tyler reportedly continued to play a leading role within the company even after the acquisition. Later in the company's lifespan, operations moved to Texas City, Texas, where boat building continued for a period. Ted Tyler passed away in 2006.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Tylercraft's reputation in the sailing world is primarily linked to its practical and often easily managed cruisers, frequently distinguished by their bilge keels. This design choice, inspired by European builders, offered advantages for sailors navigating shallow waters or seeking the ability to take the ground. The company's identity was built on offering robust fiberglass sailboats that were accessible and functional for cruising.
While specific collaborations with famous naval architects like Sparkman & Stephens or Germán Frers are not widely documented for Tylercraft, the boats themselves reflect Ted Tyler's own design influence. For instance, Ted Tyler is credited as the designer of the popular Tylercraft 24. The construction technique largely centered on the then-revolutionary fiberglass, providing durable and low-maintenance hulls.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The most significant and widely recognized model in Tylercraft's history is undoubtedly the Tylercraft 24. Launched in 1961, this 24-foot monohull sailboat became the most popular Tylercraft model, frequently appearing on the used boat market. The Tylercraft 24 was offered with both fin keel and twin bilge keel versions, catering to different sailing preferences. It featured a masthead sloop rig, a spooned raked stem, and a skeg-mounted rudder controlled by a tiller. Its displacement was around 4,000 lbs (1,814 kg), with a maximum draft of 2.00 ft (0.61 m) for the twin keel version.
Other models produced by Tylercraft included the Tylercraft 22 and the Tylercraft 26. While many different sizes of boats were advertised by the company over its history, some may have been concept models that were never built or have since disappeared from common knowledge.
The Builder Today
Tylercraft as a boat manufacturing company is no longer in operation. However, a dedicated community of owners and enthusiasts keeps the legacy of Tylercraft boats alive. Despite the original Yahoo Group website mentioned in past records likely being defunct (as Yahoo Groups has been discontinued), informal owner communities exist on various sailing forums and online platforms where Tylercraft owners share information, advice, and their experiences. These boats appeal to sailors seeking robust, often affordable, and relatively simple fiberglass cruisers. The ownership experience is characterized by a strong sense of camaraderie among those who appreciate these classic, no-nonsense vessels.
