While the name "Windward Yachts" today often conjures images of luxury yacht charters and global brokerage services, there was once a distinct entity bearing the same name that quietly contributed to the American sailboat manufacturing landscape. Located at 14561 Beach Blvd. in Jacksonville, Florida, this iteration of Windward Yachts was a boat builder, specializing in smaller sailboats, a chapter of marine history that has since concluded.
The Origins of a Sailboat Builder
Information regarding the precise founding date and the visionary behind the original Windward Yachts boat building operation in Jacksonville, FL, remains largely unrecorded in public domains. Unlike its modern namesake, which was founded by Emmanuel Pertuisot around 1998/1999 as a charter and brokerage firm, the Jacksonville-based builder's early history is less documented. The company operated from its specific address on Beach Boulevard, dedicating its efforts to the construction of sailboats rather than their sale or charter.
A Brief Chapter in Sailboat Production
Windward Yachts of Jacksonville appears to have had a relatively focused, albeit brief, period of operation as a boat manufacturer. Evidence suggests its activity primarily centered around the early 1980s, with a "1981 Windward Sail" model appearing in listings, indicative of boats produced during this era. While the exact years of operation, including its founding and cessation, are not definitively established in readily available records, the company is confirmed to be "no longer in business" as a builder.
The Windward 21 and Design Influence
Among the models attributed to the Jacksonville builder, the Windward 21 stands out as its most recognized sailboat. This particular model was designed by the renowned American naval architect Roger MacGregor, known for his prolific work in producing popular and accessible sailboats. The Windward Yachts builder produced sailboats generally in the 6.4 to 7.1-meter (approximately 21 to 23 feet) range, with the Windward 21 fitting squarely within this specification. These boats were likely constructed from fiberglass, a prevalent material for production sailboats during that period, offering durability and ease of maintenance for recreational sailors.
Legacy and Conclusion
Though detailed records of its production numbers, broader impact on the industry, or the specific circumstances of its closure are scarce, Windward Yachts of Jacksonville, FL, left its mark through models like the Windward 21. The existence of these boats, still occasionally seen in the used boat market, serves as a testament to the company's contribution to the small sailboat segment. Today, the "Windward Yachts" name primarily refers to a global yacht charter and brokerage company, a distinct entity from the former Jacksonville-based boat builder. The original Windward Yachts, the sailboat manufacturer, represents a quiet, yet integral, chapter in America's rich marine manufacturing heritage.
