From its humble beginnings in the early 1960s, Westerly Marine Construction Ltd. grew to become one of Europe's most prolific and respected builders of fiberglass sailboats. Renowned for their robust construction, comfortable interiors, and excellent cruising capabilities, Westerly yachts earned a special place in the hearts of mariners worldwide, leaving behind a lasting legacy that continues to thrive within a dedicated owner community.
The Origin Story
Westerly Marine Construction Ltd. was founded in March 1963 by Commander Denys Arthur Raynor. Raynor, who had previously designed wooden yachts, envisioned a company that would exclusively build Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) yachts. This commitment to fiberglass construction set Westerly apart from the outset, embracing a material that was then revolutionizing boatbuilding.
The company's first creation, initially known simply as "The Westerly" and later as the Westerly 22, embodied Raynor's vision. This distinctive 22-foot fiberglass sailing cruiser was notable for its surprisingly generous internal space and the inclusion of twin keels, a design feature that would become a hallmark of many future Westerly models. The Westerly 22 represented a new standard, showcasing the advantages of fiberglass in terms of stability and build efficiency.
History and Evolution
Westerly Marine Construction Ltd., established in Hampshire, England, quickly gained momentum following its founding. The company experienced rapid growth, becoming Britain's largest fiberglass boat builder during the mid-1960s and through the 1970s. Its early adoption and focus on fiberglass composites were pivotal to its success, ensuring consistent quality and enabling efficient production.
Over the decades, Westerly saw several corporate transformations. In 1995, Westerly Group Ltd., which encompassed the Westerly brand, was acquired by the Tony Davies Bowman Group, a parent company that also owned rival yacht brands Bowman and Starlight Yachts. This acquisition marked a significant shift in the company's trajectory. Westerly Marine Construction Ltd. continued its operations until 2000, at which point the original company ceased to exist.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Westerly earned a strong reputation in the sailing world for producing seaworthy, practical, and comfortable cruising yachts. Their boats are widely recognized for their sturdy fiberglass hulls and robust construction, which instilled confidence in owners undertaking coastal cruises and offshore passages.
A signature feature of many Westerly designs, particularly in its earlier and highly popular models, was the twin keel configuration. This design choice allowed for shallower drafts and the ability to dry out on tidal moorings, a significant advantage for many European sailors. Even models without twin keels, such as the Centaur, were known for their exceptional stability due to a high ballast-to-weight ratio achieved through fiberglass construction.
While Cmdr. D.A. Raynor designed the company's initial models, Westerly collaborated with several notable naval architects as its range expanded. Designers like John contributed to models such as the Westerly 28, Cirrus, and Tiger, known for their roominess and seaworthiness. David Saunders also played a role in developing a complementary range of faster, fin-keeled cruising yachts. The renowned Laurent Giles naval architecture firm was also involved in the design of models like the Westerly Konsort.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Westerly Marine Construction produced a formidable fleet of iconic models, many of which remain highly sought after on the used boat market. The Westerly 22 holds the distinction of being the company's first successful design. However, it was the Westerly Centaur that truly cemented the builder's legacy. Introduced as an exceptionally popular and versatile model, it is often lauded as one of the "best small yachts in the world" by its devoted owners.
Other significant models include the GK24, Discus, Fulmar, and Oceanlord, each contributing to Westerly's dominance in the UK leisure yachting industry for decades. The Westerly Konsort, with its comfortable layout, also became a highly successful design. The company produced boats across various ranges, including the Westerly Ocean and Westerly Regatta lines, catering to different cruising preferences. While primarily focused on production cruising yachts, Westerly's impact stemmed from its consistent delivery of reliable and well-built vessels that made sailing accessible to a broad audience.
The Builder Today
Although Westerly Marine Construction Ltd. ceased operations in 2000, its legacy endures through the thousands of yachts still gracing waters worldwide. The "Westerly" brand continues to hold significant value for those seeking robust, well-engineered cruising boats.
Crucially, the spirit of Westerly lives on through the vibrant and active Westerly Owners' Association (WOA). This not-for-profit organization, run by fellow owners, provides an invaluable resource for current and prospective Westerly enthusiasts. The WOA offers a comprehensive website, an active forum, and an extensive Wiki, serving as a prime source of technical information about Westerly yachts. Through gatherings, shared expertise, and a strong sense of community, the WOA ensures that the ownership experience of a Westerly yacht remains supported and cherished, testifying to the enduring quality and timeless appeal of these British-built cruisers.
