LITTLE HARBOR - For Sale

Company History

Little Harbor Yachts was founded in 1959 by Ted Hood, a renowned yachtsman and sailmaker. The company quickly gained a reputation for building high-quality, custom sailing yachts. Ted Hood's innovative designs and commitment to craftsmanship set Little Harbor apart in the competitive yacht-building industry. Over the years, the company expanded its offerings to include both sailing and motor yachts, catering to a diverse clientele. Little Harbor became known for its luxurious and seaworthy vessels, which were often custom-built to meet the specific needs and desires of their owners. The company experienced significant growth in the 1970s and 1980s, establishing itself as a leader in the yacht-building world.

Country of Origin

Little Harbor Yachts was founded in the United States. The company originated in Marblehead, Massachusetts, a town with a rich maritime history and a strong tradition of boat building.

Manufacturing Locations

The primary manufacturing facilities for Little Harbor Yachts were located in Rhode Island, USA. The company utilized state-of-the-art technology and skilled craftsmanship to produce its yachts. The facilities were equipped to handle the construction of both custom and semi-custom yachts, allowing Little Harbor to maintain high standards of quality and precision in its builds.

Ownership and Management

Ted Hood, the founder of Little Harbor Yachts, played a pivotal role in the company's management and design direction. His expertise and vision were instrumental in shaping the brand's identity and reputation. In the 1990s, Little Harbor Yachts became part of The Hinckley Company, another prestigious name in the yacht-building industry. This acquisition allowed Little Harbor to benefit from Hinckley's resources and expertise while continuing to produce exceptional yachts under the Little Harbor name.

Reputation and Quality

Little Harbor Yachts is renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation. The brand has received numerous accolades for its designs and craftsmanship. Ted Hood's influence is evident in the yachts' performance and aesthetics, with many models praised for their elegant lines and superior handling. Little Harbor yachts are often seen as a symbol of luxury and sophistication, attracting discerning buyers from around the world. The company's dedication to customer satisfaction and attention to detail has earned it a loyal following and a respected place in the yacht-building community.

Main Competitors

Little Harbor Yachts, known for its high-quality custom and semi-custom yachts, faced competition from several other prestigious yacht builders. Some of the main competitors included:

• Hinckley Yachts: Known for their luxury sailing and motor yachts, Hinckley has a long-standing reputation for quality and innovation, similar to Little Harbor.
• Swan Yachts (Nautor's Swan): A Finnish yacht manufacturer renowned for its high-performance sailing yachts, often considered a benchmark in the industry.
• Oyster Yachts: A British company specializing in luxury blue-water cruising yachts, offering a similar level of customization and quality.
• Hallberg-Rassy: A Swedish yacht builder known for its robust and seaworthy cruising yachts, appealing to a similar market segment.
• Hylas Yachts: Known for their semi-custom cruising yachts, Hylas offers a range of models that compete with Little Harbor's offerings.

Current Production Status

As of the latest available information, Little Harbor Yachts is no longer producing new yachts under its original brand name. The company was integrated into The Hinckley Company in the 1990s, and while the Little Harbor brand is not actively producing new models, the legacy of its designs continues to influence the industry. Some of the classic Little Harbor models are still in demand on the pre-owned market, and their designs have inspired new models under different brand names.

Production Volumes

Specific production volumes for Little Harbor Yachts are not readily available. However, the company was known for producing a limited number of custom and semi-custom yachts each year, focusing on quality and craftsmanship rather than mass production. This approach allowed Little Harbor to maintain high standards and cater to the specific needs of its clientele. The exact number of yachts produced varied depending on the complexity and customization of each project.

Latest News

There have been no recent significant events or news specifically related to Little Harbor Yachts as an independent brand, given its integration into The Hinckley Company. However, the influence of Ted Hood's designs and the legacy of Little Harbor continue to be felt in the yachting community. Enthusiasts and collectors often seek out classic Little Harbor models, and the brand's reputation for quality and innovation remains strong. The Hinckley Company, which absorbed Little Harbor, continues to be active in the industry, producing luxury yachts and maintaining the high standards associated with both brands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question:What is the history of Little Harbor Yachts?
Answer:Little Harbor Yachts was founded in 1959 by Ted Hood, a renowned yachtsman and sailmaker. The company quickly gained a reputation for building high-quality, custom sailing yachts. Over the years, Little Harbor expanded its offerings to include both sailing and motor yachts, becoming known for luxurious and seaworthy vessels.

Question:Where was Little Harbor Yachts founded?
Answer:Little Harbor Yachts was founded in Marblehead, Massachusetts, USA, a town with a rich maritime history.

Question:Is Little Harbor Yachts still producing new yachts?
Answer:Little Harbor Yachts is no longer producing new yachts under its original brand name. The company was integrated into The Hinckley Company in the 1990s. However, the legacy of its designs continues to influence the industry.

Question:What are some of the key features of Little Harbor yachts?
Answer:Little Harbor yachts are known for their elegant lines, superior handling, and luxurious interiors. They often feature custom designs tailored to the specific needs of their owners, with a focus on quality craftsmanship and innovative design.

Question:Who were the main competitors of Little Harbor Yachts?
Answer:Some of the main competitors included Hinckley Yachts, Swan Yachts, Oyster Yachts, Hallberg-Rassy, and Hylas Yachts, all known for their high-quality and luxury yachts.

Available Models

Little Harbor Yachts offered a range of models, each known for its unique characteristics and high-quality craftsmanship. Some of the notable models included:

• Little Harbor 38: A classic sailing yacht known for its performance and comfort. It typically features two cabins, a spacious salon, and a well-equipped galley. The yacht is designed for both cruising and racing, with a focus on ease of handling.

• Little Harbor 44: This model is renowned for its elegant design and seaworthiness. It offers a comfortable interior with two or three cabins, a large salon, and a functional galley. The yacht is equipped with a powerful engine, providing excellent performance under power and sail.

• Little Harbor 54: A luxurious cruising yacht designed for long-distance voyages. It features a spacious interior with multiple cabins, a large salon, and a gourmet galley. The yacht is equipped with advanced navigation and communication systems, ensuring safety and comfort at sea.

• Little Harbor 63: Known for its impressive size and luxury, this model offers a palatial interior with multiple cabins, a large salon, and a state-of-the-art galley. The yacht is designed for extended cruising, with a focus on comfort and performance.

Each Little Harbor model is characterized by its attention to detail, quality materials, and innovative design, making them highly sought after by yacht enthusiasts and collectors.