Offshore Yachts

Richard O. Hunt founded Offshore Yachts in 1948. The company’s roots date back to Word War II, when Richard pioneered the use of laminated fiberglass for the construction of auxiliary U.S. navy boats due to steel shortages. After the war, Richard built the first laminated fiberglass pleasure cruisers, which started at 14 feet in length. The production of fiberglass boats was a milestone for Offshore, since fiberglass was becoming the replacement for wood due to its strength and durability. Richard’s sons joined the family business in 1958, and son, Robert Hunt, still runs the business today. Shortly after, in 1960, Offshore built FRP cruising boats using a modified deep-vee hull, influenced by legendary boat-builder, Richard Bertram. This design technique creates a hull bottom capable of handling rougher waters. Naval architect, William Crealock, designed powerboats for Offshore Yachts, developing the deep-fore-foot design, which became popular in the Offshore 48 model. Through the early 1980’s, the introduction of the first Offshore 48 models established the maxim, “The softest ride on the water.” Offshore’s philosophy of maximum comfort, safety, and convenience stems from the use of the latest technology in yacht building. Utilizing hand-laminating techniques and intricate molds to prevent leaking windows, Offshore has an impressive model line ranging from 52 to 92 feet.