Classic style is never out of fashion. It is also proving increasingly popular with mainstream builders, with more and more of them offering classic yacht models.
The new build market for these yachts covers a whole spectrum of size and style, but there are similarities too. Wheelhouse designs are common, with aft cockpits and low, sweeping lines that push up into flared bows. Another, slightly rarer, feature is the tumblehome, a rounded shape to the topsides' aft sections. A highly evocative and classical shape that, at least, suggests careful and fastidious build.
Perhaps the biggest benefit of a new classic yacht is that you get to enjoy all the style, detail and charm, backed up by the warranties, engineering and luxuries of a modern, low-maintenance glass fibre yacht.
Speeds range from displacement to a more common 20 knots or more, with good seakeeping.
For the smaller yards, a good deal of customisation is usually available, including interior layouts and finishes. The low production and semi-custom build tends to create higher prices.