Fitzroy︱Superyacht Partners

Excellence in Craftsmanship and Innovation

Fitzroy Yachts, established in the mid-1990s in New Zealand, quickly garnered a reputation for producing high-quality, custom aluminum sailing yachts. As a subsidiary of Fitzroy Engineering, the shipyard benefited from a strong engineering foundation, enabling it to deliver yachts that seamlessly combined performance with luxury. Under the leadership of Peter White-Robinson, Fitzroy Yachts emphasized meticulous craftsmanship and innovative design, positioning itself as a formidable competitor in the global superyacht market. The yard's commitment to excellence was further demonstrated by its ability to attract and retain a highly skilled workforce, contributing to the superior quality of its vessels.

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Specialization in Custom Aluminum Sailing Yachts

Fitzroy Yachts specialized in the construction of custom sailing yachts ranging from 25 to 50 meters in length. Utilizing aluminum hulls, these vessels were designed with hull forms optimised to ensure optimal performance for long-distance cruising and competitive sailing. The shipyard's focus on full-custom builds allowed for a high degree of personalization, catering to the specific preferences and requirements of discerning yacht owners. This bespoke approach, combined with the use of advanced materials and construction techniques, enabled Fitzroy Yachts to deliver sailing yachts that were not only aesthetically pleasing but also robust and seaworthy.

Notable Yachts in Operation

Among Fitzroy Yachts' distinguished fleet, several vessels have gained prominence in the yachting community. One notable yacht is the 50-meter Zefira, launched in 2010, which was the largest sloop ever built by the shipyard and received acclaim for its innovative design and craftsmanship. Additionally, the 45-meter Salperton IV, launched in 2009, exemplifies the yard's commitment to producing high-performance sailing yachts with luxurious accommodations. Arguably the finest launch, and certainly their last was the stunning world girdling Escapade launched in 2014. Showcasing Fitzroys technical capabilties, Escapade remains a bench mark for true blue water performance cruisers. These vessels continue to burnish Fitzroy Yachts' legacy of excellence on the world's oceans.

Closure and Legacy

Despite its successes, Fitzroy Yachts ceased operations in early 2014 due to financial challenges and a decline in demand for large sailing yachts. The closure resulted in the loss of approximately 120 skilled jobs, marking a significant impact on the local maritime industry. The shipyard's final project, the 37.5-meter Escapade, was launched in April 2014, symbolizing the culmination of nearly two decades of yacht-building excellence. While the closure marked the end of an era, the fleet of Fitzroy-built yachts continues to sail globally, standing as a testament to the shipyard's commitment to quality and innovation in yacht construction.