Business Details
We have been designing, building, and preserving historic ships since 1983, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering. Our team, led by Chief Naval Architect Andrew D. Davis, brings over three decades of expertise in naval architecture and large sailing vessel construction. Andrew, a UC Berkeley graduate with a Masters in Naval Architecture, previously built the Spirit of Massachusetts and has taught at UC Berkeley, ensuring our work blends theoretical knowledge with practical experience. We prioritize understanding each vessels role within broader systems, whether educational, transportation, or recreational, to deliver designs that fulfill owners mission statements effectively. Our approach emphasizes early identification of performance goals and regulatory constraints to establish clear design priorities. Known for traditional designs inspired by masters like William Fife and N.G. Herreshoff, we favor gaff rigs for larger yachts due to their handling and weatherliness advantages.
For custom yachts under 100 feet, we prefer wood due to its insulation properties, cost-effectiveness, and ease of construction, resulting in fairer hulls. We specialize in one-of-a-kind sailing school ships, Subchapter-T passenger vessels, and museum replicas, each requiring tailored solutions to meet unique mission requirements. Our latest SSV designs feature sharp schooners and barkentines with high sail area ratios and minimal draft, optimizing maneuverability and port accessibility. We are committed to preserving sailing traditions while addressing modern challenges through innovative engineering and rigorous analysis. Every project reflects our dedication to quality, functionality, and the timeless appeal of sail-powered vessels. Our work continues to evolve, building on a legacy of excellence established over four decades.
For custom yachts under 100 feet, we prefer wood due to its insulation properties, cost-effectiveness, and ease of construction, resulting in fairer hulls. We specialize in one-of-a-kind sailing school ships, Subchapter-T passenger vessels, and museum replicas, each requiring tailored solutions to meet unique mission requirements. Our latest SSV designs feature sharp schooners and barkentines with high sail area ratios and minimal draft, optimizing maneuverability and port accessibility. We are committed to preserving sailing traditions while addressing modern challenges through innovative engineering and rigorous analysis. Every project reflects our dedication to quality, functionality, and the timeless appeal of sail-powered vessels. Our work continues to evolve, building on a legacy of excellence established over four decades.
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience in naval architecture and sailing vessel construction.
- Our Chief Naval Architect holds advanced degrees and has taught at UC Berkeley.
- We specialize in complex, one-of-a-kind sailing ship designs with regulatory expertise.
- Our traditional designs draw inspiration from legendary naval architects like William Fife.
- We utilize wood for custom yachts under 100 feet due to its marine environment advantages.
Services
Sailing School Ships
We design SSVs optimized for sail training programs, emphasizing maneuverability and shallow drafts to access diverse ports. These vessels prioritize teachable layouts and efficient crew workflows, balancing modern safety standards with traditional rigging. Our SSVs maintain high sail area ratios for responsive handling, ensuring practicality for educational missions while minimizing reliance on auxiliary engines.
Subchapter-T Vessels
Our Subchapter-T passenger carriers meet stringent US Coast Guard regulations for commercial sailing vessels. Designed for safety and comfort, these ships accommodate diverse passenger needs while maintaining classic aesthetics. We integrate modern amenities with traditional sailing functionality, ensuring compliance with technical specifications for overnight operations and large-group capacities.
Historic Replicas
We create meticulously researched replicas of historic vessels, preserving maritime heritage through accurate materials and techniques. These projects often serve museums or cultural institutions, requiring collaboration with historians to balance authenticity with modern seaworthiness standards. Each replica tells a story while maintaining functional relevance for contemporary use.
Custom Sailing Yachts
For yachts under 100 feet, we favor wood construction for its thermal insulation, corrosion resistance, and cost-effectiveness. This approach produces fairer hulls with superior environmental performance compared to metal or composite materials. Our designs blend traditional elegance with modern engineering to create enduring, sea-worthy vessels tailored to owners' specific cruising needs.
Naval Engineering
Using fully computerized systems, we perform advanced engineering analysis for structural integrity, hydrodynamics, and regulatory compliance. This ensures every design meets rigorous technical standards while maintaining aesthetic and functional goals. Our engineering expertise supports both new builds and preservation projects, adapting to the unique challenges of each maritime application.
