For nearly two decades, Westfield Engineering Co. (Marine) Ltd. of Poole, Dorset, left an indelible mark on the British sailing scene, primarily through its robust and practical Kingfisher range of yachts. Known for their distinctive twin keels and family-friendly designs, these yachts, all penned by the talented R.A.G. Nierop, became a popular choice for cruisers seeking stability and comfort.
Westfield Engineering Co. (Marine) Ltd. commenced operations in 1959, establishing its boatbuilding facility at Cabot Lane, Creekmoor, Poole, Dorset, England. The company's initial foray into boat construction began with "little family sailing boats," before transitioning to what would become their enduring legacy: the Kingfisher range. The entire Kingfisher fleet, from the smallest dinghies to the larger cruisers, was the brainchild of R.A.G. Nierop, a naval architect with the qualifications of ARAes and AMIBE. While specific details of Nierop's early background are not widely published, his designs for Westfield Engineering focused on creating capable and accessible yachts for the cruising enthusiast. The Kingfisher 20, a four-berth sloop, marked a significant milestone as the first of the Kingfisher series to enter production, setting the tone for the practicality and comfort that would define the brand.
History and Evolution
From its founding in 1959, Westfield Engineering Co. (Marine) Ltd. steadily built its reputation, constructing its GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) yachts at the Poole facility. The company's operational period spanned nearly two decades, during which the Kingfisher line gained considerable popularity. A pivotal moment in the company's history occurred in 1978 when Managing Director and chief designer R.A.G. Nierop retired. This marked a significant transition, with the construction and marketing of Kingfisher yachts being handed over to Moorstream Ltd., which subsequently traded as Kingfisher Yachts. Under this new stewardship, production of the Kingfisher range continued, notably including models like the Kingfisher 22, which was manufactured between 1978 and 1981. However, this second chapter for the Kingfisher brand was relatively short-lived, as Kingfisher Yachts ceased production entirely in the early 1980s.
Design Philosophy and Identity
The Kingfisher builder earned a distinct reputation in the sailing world for producing dependable, comfortable, and practical family cruisers. At the heart of their design philosophy, championed by R.A.G. Nierop, was the consistent use of twin keels across the Kingfisher range. This signature feature provided excellent stability, a shallower draft for exploring coastal waters and drying out, and contributed to a notably comfortable motion even in choppy seas and swells. While some models, like the Kingfisher 26, were characterized as "moderate weight" and "slightly underpowered," they were highly regarded for their robust stability and strong righting capability if capsized, emphasizing safety and ease of handling for cruising families. The interior layouts were often praised for being thoughtfully designed and spacious, maximizing comfort and utility within their respective lengths. Westfield Engineering's commitment to GRP construction from its inception aligned with the growing trend of modern boatbuilding, offering durable and low-maintenance vessels.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The Kingfisher range encompasses several models that achieved considerable success and left a lasting impression on the cruising community. The Kingfisher 20 was arguably the foundational model, establishing the brand's identity as a capable small cruiser, often lauded for its spacious four-berth interior. Following its success, the Kingfisher 20+ was introduced as an extended version, offering more internal volume.
The Kingfisher 26 proved to be another immensely popular model, known for its balanced performance as a cruising yacht, offering a good compromise between stability, comfort, and interior space for its size. The larger Kingfisher 30 completed the range, providing more room and capability for extended voyages. While precise production numbers are not readily available, the enduring presence of these yachts decades after their build dates testifies to their quality and the practical appeal of Nierop's designs.
The most profound aspect of the Kingfisher legacy is undoubtedly the Kingfisher Yacht Owners Association (KYOA). This active and dedicated community of owners demonstrates the strong appeal and enduring affection for these classic GRP cruisers. The KYOA serves as a vital resource for owners, offering a forum, historical information, and support, which speaks volumes about the lasting value and practicality of these boats.
The Builder Today
Westfield Engineering Co. (Marine) Ltd. ceased operations as a boatbuilder in 1978, with the subsequent Kingfisher Yachts (Moorstream Ltd.) concluding production in the early 1980s. Today, the company no longer builds new yachts. However, the spirit and legacy of the Kingfisher range live on through its passionate owners. The active Kingfisher Yacht Owners Association (KYOA) stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of these classic British yachts. Modern owners are drawn to the Kingfishers for their robust construction, comfortable twin-keel designs, and the practical, family-friendly cruising experience they offer. These boats continue to be cherished and sailed by a community that values their timeless design and seaworthy characteristics.
