As a respected voice in the yachting world, I've had the pleasure of chronicling countless builders whose craftsmanship has shaped our shared maritime heritage. Today, we turn our attention to Windward Boatworks, a Wisconsin-based builder that, while perhaps not a household name among superyacht enthusiasts, holds a crucial place in the world of accessible, one-design sailing.
Windward Boatworks emerged onto the marine scene in the mid-1990s, specifically in 1994, with a vision rooted in accessibility and quality. The company was founded by a collective of "young sailors" who shared a common goal: to make quality boats available at a reasonable price. While a singular founder isn't spotlighted, the consistent contact information for JtHayashi suggests a foundational role in the company's long-standing operation.
Although Windward Boatworks' most recognized contribution, the Butterfly sailboat, predates their founding, their initial endeavors likely focused on serving the local sailing community's need for reliable and affordable small craft. Their history page notes that they began by prototyping, designing, and manufacturing various boats, including training, instruction, taxi, and safety vessels.
History and Evolution
From its inception in Middleton, Wisconsin, Windward Boatworks established itself as a dedicated builder of smaller, specialized watercraft. A significant milestone in the company's evolution was its decision to take on the production of the iconic Butterfly sailboat. While the Butterfly design originated in the early 1960s, Windward Boatworks has been the primary builder of these popular one-design dinghies since 2006. This move solidified their reputation as a key player in the small sailboat market, becoming the go-to "source for Butterfly sailboats and parts".
Over the years, Windward Boatworks has also expanded its manufacturing to include other well-known dinghy classes, such as the Barnett 1400 and the Inland 20 Scow, alongside a variety of niche vessels like duckboats, Skimmer iceboats, and row trollers. The company's relocation to Princeton, Wisconsin, further cemented its operational base. Their focus has remained consistent: delivering quality, primarily fiberglass, boats tailored for specific recreational and training purposes.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Windward Boatworks' reputation in the sailing world is firmly anchored in its commitment to the one-design sailing community and the broader sphere of small boat enthusiasts. They are widely recognized as the authoritative builder of the Butterfly sailboat, a vessel celebrated for its versatility, transitioning effortlessly from a simple "cottage boat to serious one-design racer".
Their design philosophy revolves around practicality, durability, and affordability, catering to sailors who prioritize accessible performance and ease of ownership. While they don't typically collaborate with internationally renowned naval architects for new, proprietary designs in the same vein as larger yacht builders, their strength lies in meticulously constructing and refining established, popular small boat designs. They also engage in prototyping and designing other specialized boats, indicating an in-house capability for functional and purpose-built craft beyond their main sailboat lines. Their work also includes servicing and maintaining these boats, evidenced by their capability to remove wet foam from older models, ensuring the longevity of existing fleets.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The most significant and defining model in Windward Boatworks' portfolio is undoubtedly the Butterfly sailboat. First designed in 1961, the Butterfly has a long and storied history, and Windward Boatworks' stewardship of its production since 2006 has ensured its continued relevance and vitality within the one-design racing circuits. The enduring popularity of the Butterfly speaks to its thoughtful design, offering both competitive racing and relaxed recreational sailing.
Beyond the Butterfly, Windward Boatworks also produces other notable small craft:
- Barnett 1400: Another popular dinghy, with its origins dating back to 1989.
- Inland 20 Scow: A larger, faster scow design, first built in 1996.
- Specialty Boats: Their range extends to more specialized vessels like Duckboats, Skimmer Iceboats (catering to the vibrant ice sailing community), and Row Trollers, showcasing their diverse manufacturing capabilities.
While specific production numbers are not widely publicized, Windward Boatworks' consistent supply of these boats and their parts underscores their integral role in supporting vibrant class associations and encouraging participation in sailing across various disciplines.
The Builder Today
Today, Windward Boatworks continues its operations from Princeton, Wisconsin, maintaining its status as a pivotal resource for small sailboat enthusiasts. JtHayashi remains a key contact for the company, indicating continuity in leadership. The builder continues to actively produce and support its core models, including the Butterfly, Barnett 1400, and Inland 20 Scow, alongside their specialized boats like the Skimmer Iceboat.
Windward Boatworks' modern boats appeal to a broad spectrum of sailors, from beginners and families seeking accessible entry points into the sport to seasoned racers competing in active one-design classes. The ownership experience is characterized by reliable craft, readily available parts, and the support of a strong, passionate owner community, particularly evident within the Butterfly class. The company's ongoing commitment to building and supporting these boats ensures that a new generation can discover the joy and challenge of small boat sailing.
