CAL YACHTS - For Sale

Company History

Cal Yachts, originally known as Jensen Marine, was founded in 1957 by Jack Jensen in Costa Mesa, California. The company quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality fiberglass sailboats. One of the key milestones in the company's history was the introduction of the Cal 40 in 1963, which became an iconic design in the sailing world. The Cal 40 was revolutionary for its time, featuring a fin keel and spade rudder, which contributed to its outstanding performance and success in ocean racing. Over the years, Cal Yachts produced a wide range of models, from small day sailers to larger cruising yachts, and became a significant player in the American sailboat industry.

Country of Origin

Cal Yachts was founded in the United States, specifically in Costa Mesa, California.

Manufacturing Locations

The primary manufacturing facility for Cal Yachts was located in Costa Mesa, California. This location was central to the company's operations and played a crucial role in the production of their fiberglass sailboats. Over time, as the company expanded, additional production facilities were established to meet the growing demand for their yachts.

Ownership and Management

Cal Yachts underwent several ownership changes throughout its history. In the early years, the company was privately owned by its founder, Jack Jensen. In the late 1960s, the company was acquired by Bangor Punta Corporation, a conglomerate that owned several other boat manufacturers. This acquisition provided Cal Yachts with additional resources and support, allowing it to expand its product line and reach a broader market. In the 1980s, the company changed hands again, eventually becoming part of the Lear Siegler group. Despite these changes in ownership, Cal Yachts continued to produce high-quality sailboats until it ceased operations in the late 1980s.

Reputation and Quality

Cal Yachts is renowned for its innovative designs and high-quality construction. The Cal 40, in particular, is celebrated for its impact on yacht design and its success in competitive sailing. The yacht's performance in races such as the Transpacific Yacht Race and the Newport to Bermuda Race solidified its reputation as a fast and reliable ocean racer. Cal Yachts' commitment to quality and performance earned the brand a loyal following among sailors and contributed to its lasting legacy in the sailing community. Although the company is no longer in operation, Cal Yachts' boats continue to be cherished by enthusiasts and collectors around the world.

Main Competitors

During its operational years, Cal Yachts faced competition from several other prominent yacht manufacturers. Some of the main competitors included:

1. Catalina Yachts: Founded in 1969, Catalina Yachts became one of the largest manufacturers of fiberglass sailboats in the United States. Known for their durable and affordable boats, Catalina was a significant competitor in the market for cruising sailboats.

2. Hunter Marine: Established in 1973, Hunter Marine was another major player in the sailboat industry. Hunter was known for its innovative designs and focus on creating comfortable cruising yachts, which appealed to a similar market segment as Cal Yachts.

3. Pearson Yachts: As one of the first companies to produce fiberglass sailboats, Pearson Yachts was a pioneer in the industry. Founded in 1956, Pearson offered a range of models that competed directly with Cal Yachts in terms of design and performance.

4. O'Day Corp: O'Day was a well-known manufacturer of sailboats, particularly popular in the 1960s and 1970s. Their boats were known for being user-friendly and affordable, making them a strong competitor in the recreational sailing market.

Current Production Status

Cal Yachts is no longer in production. The company ceased operations in the late 1980s. Despite the end of production, many Cal Yachts sailboats remain in use today, cherished by their owners for their quality construction and performance. The legacy of Cal Yachts lives on through these vessels, which continue to be a testament to the brand's impact on the sailing community.

Production Volumes

Specific data on the production volumes of Cal Yachts throughout its operational years is limited. However, it is known that the company produced a significant number of sailboats, with some models being particularly popular. For example, the Cal 20, introduced in the early 1960s, saw over 1,900 units produced, making it one of the most successful models in the company's history. The Cal 40, another iconic model, had around 155 units built. These numbers reflect the popularity and demand for Cal Yachts' designs during their peak years.

Latest News

As Cal Yachts is no longer an active company, there are no recent news updates directly related to the manufacturer. However, the legacy of Cal Yachts continues to be celebrated within the sailing community. Enthusiasts and owners of Cal Yachts often participate in regattas and sailing events, showcasing the enduring performance and design of these classic boats. Additionally, there are active online communities and forums where Cal Yachts owners share information, restoration tips, and stories about their vessels, keeping the spirit of the brand alive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question:What is the most iconic model produced by Cal Yachts?
Answer:The most iconic model produced by Cal Yachts is the Cal 40. Introduced in 1963, it revolutionized yacht design with its fin keel and spade rudder, and it became famous for its performance in ocean racing.

Question:Are Cal Yachts still being manufactured today?
Answer:No, Cal Yachts ceased production in the late 1980s. However, many of their boats are still in use and are highly regarded by sailing enthusiasts.

Question:What materials were primarily used in the construction of Cal Yachts?
Answer:Cal Yachts were primarily constructed using fiberglass, which was a relatively new material in boat building at the time. This contributed to their durability and performance.

Question:Can I still find parts and support for Cal Yachts?
Answer:While Cal Yachts is no longer in operation, there are active communities and forums where owners share resources and information about parts and maintenance. Some specialized marine suppliers may also offer parts compatible with Cal Yachts models.

Question:What made the Cal 40 so successful in racing?
Answer:The Cal 40's success in racing can be attributed to its innovative design, which included a lightweight fiberglass hull, a fin keel, and a spade rudder. These features provided excellent speed and maneuverability, making it a formidable competitor in ocean races.

Available Models

Cal Yachts produced a variety of models throughout its history, each with unique characteristics and features. Here are some of the notable models:

Cal 20

• Length:20 feet
• Cabins:1
• Maximum Speed:Approximately 5-6 knots under sail
• Engine Type:Typically outboard motor (optional)

The Cal 20 was one of the most popular models, known for its simplicity and ease of handling. It was ideal for day sailing and racing, with over 1,900 units produced.

Cal 25

• Length:25 feet
• Cabins:1-2
• Maximum Speed:Approximately 6-7 knots under sail
• Engine Type:Inboard or outboard motor

The Cal 25 was designed for both cruising and racing, offering more space and comfort compared to the Cal 20. It became a favorite among weekend sailors.

Cal 40

• Length:40 feet
• Cabins:2-3
• Maximum Speed:Approximately 8-9 knots under sail
• Engine Type:Inboard diesel engine

The Cal 40 is perhaps the most famous model, celebrated for its racing pedigree and innovative design. It remains a sought-after classic among sailing enthusiasts.

Cal 46

• Length:46 feet
• Cabins:3-4
• Maximum Speed:Approximately 8-9 knots under sail
• Engine Type:Inboard diesel engine

The Cal 46 was designed for long-distance cruising, offering ample space and comfort for extended voyages. It featured a robust construction and was well-suited for bluewater sailing.

Cal 2-27

• Length:27 feet
• Cabins:1-2
• Maximum Speed:Approximately 6-7 knots under sail
• Engine Type:Inboard diesel engine

The Cal 2-27 was a versatile model, popular for both cruising and club racing. It offered a good balance of performance and comfort, making it a practical choice for many sailors.

These models represent just a selection of the diverse range of sailboats produced by Cal Yachts. Each model was designed with specific sailing needs in mind, from competitive racing to leisurely cruising, and they continue to be appreciated for their quality and performance.