In the annals of American yachting, Yankee Yachts Inc. carved a significant, albeit relatively brief, niche as a builder renowned for its uncompromising commitment to quality. Founded by John Schumaker, the company operated for just a decade, from 1965 to 1975, yet left an indelible mark with its meticulously constructed sailboats, which remain highly sought after on the used market today.
The Origin Story
John Schumaker (1929-2015) embarked on his boatbuilding journey in 1962. His initial foray into the marine industry involved constructing the Sparkman & Stephens-designed 24-foot Dolphin sailboat. The very first vessel he built was his family's own boat, aptly named "Yankee." This initial Dolphin, Hull No. 71, distinguished itself from its predecessors (which were built by O'Day) by Schumaker's hands-on approach: while the hull was fiberglass, he personally crafted the deck, cabin, and interior entirely out of wood. He even constructed a hollow, laminated spruce mast for this inaugural vessel. It's believed that the company, Yankee Yachts, was named after this beautiful first boat.
The initial four Dolphins were built in this distinctive manner, blending fiberglass hulls with traditional wooden superstructures and interiors. Schumaker began his operations in a yard near Marina Del Rey, California, before establishing Yankee Yachts Inc. and relocating to an old steel building on Hindry Avenue in Inglewood, California, in the mid-1960s.
History and Evolution
Yankee Yachts operated from 1965 to 1975. During this period, the company expanded its operations, eventually moving from Inglewood, California, to Santa Ana, California, in the 1970s. This transition coincided with an evolution in their construction methods. While the early Dolphins featured wooden decks and interiors, subsequent Dolphin models and the popular Yankee 30s embraced fiberglass decks and aluminum masts, showcasing an adaptation to modern materials while retaining the core commitment to robust construction. Notably, Yankee Yachts also refined the Dolphin's design, transitioning from a bolt-on external lead keel to a molded fiberglass keel with internal ballast and a glass-wrapped steel plate centerboard, aimed at improving performance.
The company's existence, though relatively short, was defined by its unwavering dedication to superior build quality. John Schumaker Jr., as the founder and owner, famously "refused to reduce the quality of his" boats, even as market pressures or other factors might have suggested otherwise. This steadfast commitment to high standards is often cited as a contributing factor to the company's eventual closure in 1975, highlighting a builder who prioritized craftsmanship above all else.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Yankee Yachts quickly earned a reputation in the sailing world for producing vessels of exceptionally high construction standards. This reputation persists today, making their boats highly sought after in the used sailboat market. A hallmark of Yankee Yachts' construction was the use of one-piece, hand laid-up fiberglass hulls, contributing to their renowned durability and structural integrity.
The builder collaborated extensively with prominent naval architects of the era. A key partnership was with the legendary design firm Sparkman & Stephens. Sparkman & Stephens was responsible for the enduring Dolphin 24 (specifically S&S design #1497-11, known as the Yankee Dolphin), the highly successful Yankee 30 (S&S design #1999), and even a redesign of the 11-foot Interclub dinghy, named the Minuteman. Another significant design came from American maritime architect Robert Finch, who designed the popular Yankee 28.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Yankee Yachts produced a range of sailing yachts from 24 to 40 feet, each embodying the company's commitment to quality.
One of their most significant models was the Dolphin 24. John Schumaker personally oversaw the construction of 175 Dolphins, making it a cornerstone of the Yankee Yachts line. The Yankee Dolphin, a revised version by Sparkman & Stephens, featured improvements such as higher ballast, lower displacement, an enhanced rudder design, and dual lower shrouds.
The Yankee 30 emerged as another highly successful and iconic model. Designed by Sparkman & Stephens, it was constructed with fiberglass and quickly gained a "storied history" as a capable single-handed racer, particularly on San Francisco Bay. It was recognized for its "exceptional and seaworthy design." Various iterations, including the Yankee 30 MKI (S&S design #1999) and the Yankee 30 MKIII (a 3/4 Ton racer), underscore its versatility and appeal. Even after Yankee Yachts ceased operations, the strength of the Yankee 30 design led to a few more being built by other yards, such as Heritage Boat Works and Vashon Island Boat Works.
The Yankee 28, designed by Robert Finch, also contributed to the company's reputation for well-built performance cruisers.
The Enduring Appeal
Although Yankee Yachts Inc. closed its doors in 1975, its legacy continues to thrive through the enduring quality of its vessels. The founder's refusal to compromise on construction standards means that Yankee yachts built over five decades ago are still considered robust, seaworthy, and highly desirable. This inherent durability and intelligent design contribute to a strong community of owners and enthusiasts who value these classic fiberglass yachts for their sailing performance, solid build, and timeless appeal. For many, owning a Yankee yacht represents an appreciation for a bygone era of American boatbuilding where quality was paramount.
