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Grand Banks – A Brief History

A Brief History Of Grand Banks and American Marine   (by Robert M. Lane)

If the boat named Spray were to motor slowly through an anchorage today it would turn heads in admiration and generate at least a million inquiries: What is it? Who built it? That straight stem and the beautiful sheer line would seem familiar to some. Others would find a teasing hint in the shape of the forward trunk cabin, with its teak trim and grab rails. The boxy saloon, with workboat windows, wouldn’t quite fit the mental picture of a yacht some observers would be forming. But then its perfect wood construction, the wire lifelines and stout stanchions, and the big cockpit would ring bells. What the heck is it? It’s a Grand Banks – and it isn’t.

In 1962, Robert J. Newton and his sons, John and Whit, were running a custom boatyard on Junk Bay in Hong Kong called American Marine, Ltd. Father and sons built heavy sailboats and big motor yachts, to designs by the world’s top marine architects – Sparkman & Stevens,William Garden, Nat Herreshoff, Ray Hunt and others. That year they commissioned Kenneth Smith, another well-known marine architect, to designa 36 foot, diesel-powered cruising boat. Spray was launched in 1963 and a year later the Newtons abandoned their custom yacht building to focus on producing the first of a line of boats that would be known as Grand Banks.  Even before Spray, however, there was the Chan tyman that American Marine built of wood in its Hong Kong yard.

Diesel-powered, the 34′ 6″ boat had a raised pilothouse, high bulwarks and softer hull lines (no hard chines). It was unlike Spray or the 36GBs that would follow, but Chantyman certainly was a design that introduced the concept of a production trawler-type yacht to the boating world.

few of the Chantyman line are still cruising, and every time one shows up at a Grand Banks rendezvous, everyone again asks, “What the heck is that?” Spray was the prototype of the line that would succeed. With some changes, such as a larger saloon and the addition of a flying bridge, its successor became the craft that sold the world’s boaters on a finely built, eight-knot trawler (although today’s GBs may be fitted with engines that make them run much, much faster). The general styling of the GB was seized by a score of other builders for fleets of look-alike yachts sold under dozens of names, but which could not match the quality of construction for which American Marine was famed.

Since 1965, the first model year, 1,124 of the 36GBs have been built by American Marine, first in wood at the Junk Bay yard and then, beginning in 1974, of fiberglass at a new factory in Singapore. (A footnote for history: American Marine made the switch from wood to fiberglass without telling its dealers or the public. It came as one big surprise to a boating world still somewhat suspicious of fiberglass.)

The GB36 is not being built this year, partly because of market demand for larger boats, which yield better profits. But American Marine says GB36 production will resume in 1999 and that the company is considering several improvements to the classic yacht, as well as “production steps” that will make it more profitable.

The 32GB, of which 861 were built, is out of production for similar reasons. Don’t expect it to come back, however.

Although Grand Banks yachts have maintained the same classic hull design from the beginning, variety has also been an important part of the history of American Marine. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, it built a line of pilothouse yachts called Alaskan. They ranged in size from 45′ to 55′, but production ceased after the 1973 model year when American Marine switched to a fiberglass construction. (Another footnote for historically fastidious: The 45′ Alaskan was a stretched 42′ and did not have a pilothouse. But it did have a flying bridge, which are found on only a few Alaskans.)

In 1971, American Marine designed and built a hot and luxurious express cruiser called theLaguna that was a haringner of the less-teak-is-better movement. There were two models, a 10 meter (33′) and an 11.5 meter ( a 38′ speedster priced at $72,000 in 1972). Both were powered by turbocharged V8 diesels (each with a fiberglass sound shield) that gave them a cruise speed of about 24 knots and a full-throttle rush to 30. The design may have been too radical for the market, as some believe. But its early demise after good sales for several years (171 boats) probably came more from potential buyer’s fear that they couldn’t find or afford diesel fuel for the thirsty engines. After all, they were introduced about the time an oil embargo sharply reduced the flow of gasoline and other fuels to the U.S., leaving motorists in gas station lines that were blocks long and sending pump prices soaring beyond belief.

As the economy staggered and interest rates reached into double digits, business expansion faltered and Laguna production ceased. Simultaneously, however, the world’s trawler builders, including American Marine, were praising the fuel economy of a low horsepower, single engine boat that could run a seson on a tank of diesel fuel. The Laguna died, while the trawlers kept chugging along, powered by thrifty Ford Lehman, Perkins, GM and John Deere diesels.

American Marine would later revive the express boat in 1993 with introduction of the 38′ Eastbay, a fast Ray Hunt-designed yacht powered with a pair of powerful Cat diesels. Once again, other builders copied success and introduced similar express cruisers to the boating market. Fuel supply or cost don’t concern go-fast boaters. The company was growing quickly, too quickly perhaps, in the early 1970s. It owned part or all of 33 dealerships worldwide and was involved in a number of business alliances, including a joint venture to produce a marine version of the John Deere diesel, the AmMarine. As the boating industry crumbled under the weight of soaring fuel prices and double digit interest rates, American Marine was soon facing bankruptcy. In 1975, control passed to a group of investors headed by Bob Livingston, who continues as chairman today.

American Marine is traded on the Singapore market under the name of Grand Banks Holdings,Ltd. It is difficult for U.S. residents to buy stock in the company, but some banks and brokerages will accept orders for stock on the Singapore exchange. And, by the way, Spray continues to cruise today. She’s on the Great Lakes now and every time she motors into a moorage someone probably asks, “What the heck is that?”

Reprinted PassageMaker Fall 1998

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Navigate a bit of Grand Banks Yachts History

history of grand banks yachts

Back in the 50’s, Robert Newton and his two sons started a small boat-building venture in a little shed in Junk Bay along the Hong Kong waterfront. By 1962, they were running a custom boatyard they called American Marine, Ltd.  Father and sons built heavy sailboats and big motor yachts designed to specifications by the world’s leading marine architects.

Their desire for pioneering design, craftsmanship and beauty was exhaustive from the beginning, and has continued through the company to this day.

The company commissioned Kenneth Smith, another well-known marine architect, to design a 36’ diesel-powered cruising boat.  Spray  was launched in 1963, and was the prototype of the line that would succeed. One year later, the Newtons abandoned their custom yacht building to focus on producing that specific line of boats that would become part of Grand Banks Yachts.

After some changes to finesse the design, such as a larger salon and the addition of a flying bridge, its successor became the vessel that excited all the world’s boaters on a finely-built, 8-knot (at the time) trawler.

The general styling of the Grand Banks Yachts was mimicked by a score of other builders for fleets of look-alike yachts sold under dozens of names, but which could not match the quality of construction for which American Marine was famed.

In the 60s Harvey Halvorsen became the company designer, and in 1975 he formed a joint venture between Lars Halvorsen Sons Pty. Ltd. and the former general manager of American Marine Company to design, build and market a new range of pleasure boats worldwide. The company was called Kong & Halvorsen Marine & Engineering Company, Ltd.

Through the 60s and 70s, Tony Fleming served as the technical director. While there, Tony helped introduce the highly respected Alaskan series of raised pilothouse yachts.

Fast forward a few decades later, and in 2014, the company acquired Palm Beach Motor Yachts, with combined expertise resulting in a singular pursuit of perfection, beauty and performance.

Today, technology helps hone even more precise detailing. Grand Banks yachts and the character they represent appeal to discerning customers who have a passion for the water.

One could say the company hasn’t just led the yachting industry; they’ve changed it by introducing two popular vessel genres—cruising trawlers and Downeast express cruisers—forever altering how yachtsmen spend time on the water.

This Grand Banks history lesson tells the tale of a company that chartered its way through history with an unaltered course embodying style, grace and precision. Any Grand Banks Yacht owner would agree.

Check out the line-up of Grand Banks Yachts we have for sale or charter by calling toll-free 1-800-826-1430 or locally 1-360-676-1248 .

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Portrait of a building site / Grand Banks, the inventor of the pleasure trawler

history of grand banks yachts

For more than 60 years, the Grand Banks have been moving their atypical silhouette at a senatorial pace on all the seas of the world. A look back at the history and evolution of the precursor of the trawler dedicated to cruising.

Maxime Leriche

A North American design for an Asian manufacture

The story of the mythical Grand Banks trawler begins on the shores of an island in Hong Kong. Two brothers, John and Whit Newton, urged by their father, set up a wooden boat building yard on one of the family factory's parking lots.

The first units produced were orders from well-to-do local entrepreneurs who wanted to acquire long keel sailboats or wooden motoryachts.

Le chantier dans les années 70

In 1962, the yard moved to larger premises to meet the growing demand. The family business moved to Junk Bay, in the north of the archipelago.

In 1963, the two brothers decided to abandon custom requests and go into series production. They asked the architect Kenneth Smith to design a 36-foot wooden cruiser with a displacement hull and diesel engine .

The inventor of the cruising trawler

Le Spray mesure 36 pieds

When launched, the first of the series was named "Spray" and was a great success. Inspired by the design of North American trawlers, the Spray prefigures the philosophy of the Grand Banks: a raised wheelhouse, high bulwarks and curved hull lines. The combination of these features provides incredible living space, while offering a design that is out of the ordinary. Moreover, the displacement hull has a very good behavior in rough seas, even if it sometimes suffers from a pronounced roll.

1124 units of this 36-footer were built, foreshadowing the market's attraction for this type of unit. In 1974, the shipyard developed its know-how in polyester construction. Easier to build than a conventional wooden construction, the shipyard gained in productivity.

Fearing mistrust of polyester, neither customers nor even dealers at the time were informed of this change in construction material.

Le Laguna

Anticipating a high-potential market too early, American Marine released two models of Laguna in 1971, a motoryacht capable of reaching 30 knots. But its gargantuan fuel consumption in the middle of the oil crisis put a quick end to its marketing.

In 1975, American Marine went bankrupt. The company was taken over by a pool of investors led by Bob Livingstone, who renamed the yard Grand Banks Holdings, Ltd.

The golden age of yachting

Un catalogue Grand Banks des années 90

The shipyard had its heyday in the 90s. The Grand Banks are then declined in three versions: Sedan, Europa, or Classic.

Grand Banks 36 Classic

Sailing a Grand Banks brings a different approach to cruising and life on board . Powered by Ford Lehman or John Deere engines, a Grand Banks benefits from a great autonomy at speeds below 9 knots. It also provides its crew with a large living space, while offering a high level of equipment.

Grand Banks Sedan

Because of its proximity to Asian forests, the shipyard has developed a recognized know-how in the use of teak for its decks and interior fittings, offering an incomparable marine atmosphere.

Grand Banks 42 Europa

With more than 1571 units sold, the Grand Banks 42 is the most important commercial success of the shipyard .

A huge semi-automated factory

history of grand banks yachts

Today, the production site is located in Johor, Malaysia. About 600 workers are employed in the 51,000 m2 factory. Grand Banks is marketed by only 7 representatives worldwide. The site is managed by Mark Richard, who recently modernized his huge factory by integrating robotic operators to semi-automate certain manufacturing processes.

The shipyard offers 5 models in its catalog, divided into two ranges:

Le Grand Banks 54

  • The Grand Banks range from 54 to 85 feet. The heavy displacement hull has been replaced by a semi-planing and more modern version. The hulls and decks are made of infusion with carbon reinforcements. The whole brings a gain of weight and larger volumes, while improving the performances and the consumption.

Le Eastbay 44

  • The Eastbay range: inspired by the American Downeast, the two models are designed for a day-boat or short coastal cruise program

L'intérieur du Eastbay 44

Owning a Grand Banks requires a generous budget. It will cost you just over 3 million euros to take the helm of the latest 54-footer.

Le Grand Banks 54

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Grand Banks

Offering three lines of composite luxury yachts featuring traditional nautical styling and offshore capability, Grand Banks Yachts is headquartered in the U.S. Pacific Northwest.

Grand Banks’ genesis was with a company called American Marine, founded in 1956 by Robert J. Newton and his sons, John and Whit, in Hong Kong. American Marine built custom luxury yachts designed by noted naval architects.

In 1962, the Newtons commissioned naval architect Kenneth Smith to design an 11-metre, diesel-powered cruising motor boat with workboat lines called Spray. This yacht, which formed the prototype for the classic Grand Banks cruiser, was so successful that starting in 1963, the family focused on building the Grand Banks line. At first, they built their boats of wood in Hong Kong, then a decade later, began composite production in a new shipyard in Singapore. Now known as the Grand Banks Heritage Series, these models range from 13 to 16.45 metres.

In 1993, Grand Banks launched its East Bay Series of luxury yachts based on the design of a traditional Maine lobster boat. Today, the East Bay series ranges from 13.7 to 16.8 metres. Then, in 2001, Grand Banks introduced its Aleutian Series of Raised Pilothouse motor yachts in order to satisfy the demand from owners of smaller Grand Banks yachts ready to move up in size. The Aleutian luxury yachts range from 16 to 23 metres.

Notable Yacht

The Aleutian 76 RP is Grand Banks’ flagship Raised Pilothouse luxury yacht. Designed with traditional nautical exterior lines and a semi-displacement hull, this versatile motor yacht is capable of cruising at speeds of up to 30 knots or voyaging at a range of nearly 2,000 kilometres. Its layout includes a flybridge and spacious bridge deck up to four staterooms.

Specialisations

Grand Banks offers high quality new luxury yachts built with advanced composite construction. The shipyard is known for its fine woodworking and craftsmanship, and its attention to detail.

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World debut of Grand Banks Yachts' new flagship: the Grand Banks 85

Grand Banks 85 - photo © Grand Banks Yachts

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history of grand banks yachts

Grand Banks Downeast Motor Yachts

For over half a century, Grand Banks Yachts has been at the forefront of the luxury yacht industry, producing boats of exceptional quality and design. With their impeccable craftsmanship, attention to detail, and commitment to customer satisfaction, Grand Banks Yachts has become a trusted name in the boating world.

history of grand banks yachts

Grand Banks FEATURED MODELS FOR SALE

history of grand banks yachts

2023 Grand Banks GB54

2023 model Grand Banks GB54 “HIGHPOINT II” is an outstanding, highly maintained in AS-NEW GB54 available today! HIGHPOINT II features a fantastic two stateroom, two head, galley down layout with forward master and twin guest stateroom. She has a wonderful open salon layout with seating to port and starboard, 2 STIDD Helm chairs at lower helm w/ second helm bench across looking over the open galley. Three (3) large power windows (port, stbd and aft) open the salon space with natural light and breezes. The aft window offers an easy pass through to the cockpit when desired. HIGHPOINT II is powered by Volvo D11’s 725hp shaft drive with extended warranties effective until 04 Apr 2028 or 2,000 hours, bow and stern thruster, Humphree active Fin Stabilization System and Garmin Glass Cockpit Navigational system w/ open array radar and autopilot & much more! She cruises comfortably around 25 knots with a top end at about 30 knots. The GB54 features the fantastic V-Warp technology designed hull and construction unique to the brand, which provides an efficient and stable ride. HIGHPOINT II range approximately 1,000 miles at 10 knots! She is truly an outstanding long range cruising yacht with express capabilities and many features and benefits which makes her the ultimate versatile cruising yacht under 60’!

All Used Grand Banks Yachts For Sale

Model Length Location Price  
2003 Grand Banks Eastbay 38 38 FT Westerly $330,000
2006 Grand Banks 39 Eastbay SX 39 FT Ocean Gate $369,000
2006 Grand Banks EASTBAY 39 SX 39 FT Seattle $395,000
2011 Grand Banks 41 Heritage EU 41 FT Grasonville $739,000
1987 Grand Banks 42 Europa 42 FT Oceanside $254,000
1999 Grand Banks 42 Classic 42 FT Cape Coral $349,000
1993 Grand Banks 42/43 Classic 42 FT Eastlake $274,900
2013 Grand Banks 43 Europa 43 FT Boca Raton $895,000
2001 Grand Banks Eastbay 43 43 FT San Diego $369,000
1999 Grand Banks 43 Eastbay FB 43 FT Miami Beach $345,000
2007 Grand Banks 43 Eastbay SX 43 FT Huntington $495,000
2015 Grand Banks 43 Europa 43 FT Norwalk $895,000
2012 Grand Banks 46 Eastbay SX 46 FT Old Saybrook $829,000
1997 Grand Banks 46 Europa 46 FT Fort Lauderdale $295,000
1990 Grand Banks 46 Classic 46 FT Palm Coast $259,500
1990 Grand Banks 46 Classic 46 FT Stuart $255,000
1995 Grand Banks Classic, stabilized with thruster 46 FT Point Clear $254,000
1993 Grand Banks 46 Europa 47 FT Croton on Hudson $345,000
2005 Grand Banks 47 Eastbay FB 47 FT Fort Lauderdale $695,000
2006 Grand Banks 47 Europa 47 FT Fort Myers Beach $695,000
1999 Grand Banks EastBay 49 49 FT Yarmouth $390,000
1995 Grand Banks 49 Motoryacht 49 FT Ventura $479,000
1999 Grand Banks EastBay 49 49 FT Charleston $398,000
1999 Grand Banks Eastbay 49 HX Express 49 FT North Beach $395,000
2006 Grand Banks Eastbay 49' SX 49 FT Hampton $649,000
1999 Grand Banks 49 Eastbay HX 49 FT Miami Beach $339,000
1988 Grand Banks 49 Classic 49 FT Gloucester Point $295,000
1993 Grand Banks MOTORYACHT 49 FT Bellingham $275,000
2014 Grand Banks 50 Eastbay SX 50 FT Seattle $1,495,000
2014 Grand Banks 50 Eastbay SX 50 FT Sturgeon Bay $1,495,000
2000 Grand Banks Heritage Europa 52 52 FT Belfast $587,500
2005 Grand Banks 54 Eastbay SX 54 FT Moore Haven $694,000
2003 Grand Banks 54 Eastbay SX 54 FT Coconut Grove $699,000
2006 Grand Banks eastbay 54 sx 54 FT Racine $728,000
2004 Grand Banks eastbay 54 sx 54 FT Virginia Beach $795,000
2005 Grand Banks Eastbay 54 FT Harpswell $869,900
2013 Grand Banks 54 Europa 54 FT Dania Beach $1,695,000
2020 Grand Banks 57 Europa 54 FT Stuart $2,395,000
2021 Grand Banks GB54 Flybridge 54 FT Stuart $2,550,000
2023 Grand Banks GB54 54 FT Sarasota $3,395,000
2015 Grand Banks Eastbay 50SX 55 FT Harbor Springs $1,590,000
1969 Grand Banks 57 57 FT San Diego $499,000
2004 Grand Banks 58' Eastbay 58 FT Baltimore $1,050,000
2008 Grand Banks 59 Aleutian RP 59 FT Fort Lauderdale $1,139,000
2007 Grand Banks 59 Aleutian RP 59 FT Palmetto $1,664,900
2020 Grand Banks GB60 Flybridge 60 FT Stuart $3,595,000

Grand Banks History Committed To Quality

Founded in 1956, Grand Banks Yachts first gained recognition for their classic wooden boats, which were known for their elegant lines, comfortable interiors, and seaworthiness. The company's wooden boats were built to last, and many of them are still sailing today, a testament to the company's commitment to quality. In the 1970s, Grand Banks Yachts shifted to producing fiberglass models, which enabled them to offer a wider range of designs and sizes. Today, the company produces both fiberglass and aluminum models, ranging from 43 to 85 feet in length.

Despite the shift to new materials, Grand Banks Yachts has retained its commitment to traditional boatbuilding techniques and quality. Each yacht is hand-built by skilled craftsmen, who take pride in their work and pay attention to every detail. From the woodwork to the wiring, every aspect of the boat is meticulously crafted and inspected to ensure that it meets the company's exacting standards.

Popular Grand Banks Models

Grand Banks has been building yachts for over 60 years and in this time has offered many different models ranging in size from 36 to 85 feet. Their current lineup of new yachts consists of the Grand Banks 54, 60, and 85, as well as the Eastbay 44 and 60. There are also several models that have been discontinued but are still very popular on the pre-owned brokerage market.

Grand Banks 85

The GB85 is the largest yacht built by Grand Banks, and an amazingly fuel-efficient vessel. She combines sophistication, practicality, modernization, and luxury altogether for a phenomenal yachting experience enjoyed by all. By utilizing the most advanced construction techniques they have created a vessel that is lighter and travels longer while maintaining the build quality and comfort that makes Grand Banks highly desirable.

Grand Banks 60

The GB60 was launched by Grand Banks in 2016 and is a revered member to what is a fantastic lineage of long-distance cruising vessels. She provides a spectacular showcase of what sets Grand Banks apart from the rest of the cruising world. At the first glance you will stop and stare at the beauty of her distinct lines and V-Warp hull. Featuring a combination of high tech and high style, she provides a world of luxury and state-of-the-art technology in concert. With the ability to cover over 200 nautical miles at 10 knots she makes long range cruising a breeze.

Grand Banks 54

The GB54 follows suit of its predecessor and bigger sister, the GB60. Launched in Spring 2020, she has already made quite a splash in her first few years. She provides another iteration of a fantastic combination of luxury, performance, practicality, and efficiency. The commitment that Grand Banks makes to quality construction and the highest standards is very much evident in the GB54, which cruises comfortably and won’t shake or rattle even when the seas are rolling.

Giving life back to downeast style yachts and reinvigorating the spirit of yachting, the EB 60 is the flagship of the Eastbay line by Grand Banks. With cruising capability and top of the line amenities, she relishes the effort put forth by the competition. Eastbay owners past, present, and future will be proud of the direction Grand Banks has gone with this line.

The Eastbay 54 was quite the spectacle in her prime, being one of the most highly regarded downeast express yachts in her class with a deep-vee hull, substantial weight, and Grand Banks high quality build standards combined with Ray Hunt's fantastic design.

The predecessor to the 54, the Eastbay 49 set the standard for the Downeast style yacht. She offered a combination of seaworthiness, comfort, performance, and style that could not be matched by any other manufacturer.

Continuing with the quality and craftsmanship of Grand Banks, the Eastbay 46 brought an elegant and sporty component to the Eastbay brand. Veering away from the direct drive and towards the pod drive system which, at the time, was a new and innovative approach to enhancing maneuverability and performance. The 46 continues to be a popular and respected yacht on the pre-owned brokerage market.

The EB44 is a perfect combination of traditional and modern from bow to stern. Launched in 2015, she has been turning heads ever since. She presents a wonderful rush at a cruising speed of 25 knots and top speed of 33 knots, all while still maintaining that amazing fuel efficiency due to the construction materials and design that all Grand Banks models are known for.

Grand Banks vs. Eastbay Yachts

Grand Banks and Eastbay are both high-end yacht brands made by Grand Banks. While they share some similarities, such as their classic yacht styling, reputation for quality, craftsmanship, and innovation, there are also some notable differences between the two brands.

Grand Banks is a brand that has been around since 1956, and they are known for their classic motor yacht designs, exceptional seaworthiness, and quality craftsmanship. Grand Banks yachts are typically larger, with sizes ranging from 42 to 85 feet, and they are often built to order with a range of customizable options. Grand Banks yachts are designed for long-range cruising, with features such as large fuel tanks and spacious living areas.

Eastbay is a brand that was launched by Grand Banks in 1993 as a more performance-oriented line of yachts. Eastbay models are typically smaller compared to Grand Banks models, with sizes ranging from 38 to 60 feet, and they feature sleek, modern designs with a focus on speed and agility. Eastbay yachts are designed for day trips and short-range cruising, with features such as lightweight construction and powerful engines.

Grand Banks Features & Highlights

Grand Banks and Eastbay yachts are known for their exceptional quality and design, with features and amenities that make them comfortable and practical for long distance cruising and extended stays on board.

Classic Motor Yacht Design & Style

One of the hallmarks of Grand Banks Yachts' boats is their timeless design. While the company has embraced new technologies and materials, they have also retained the classic lines and styling that have made their boats so popular over the years. A Grand Banks yacht is a thing of beauty, with its sweeping curves, teak decks, and elegant interiors.

Seaworthiness

Grand Banks Yachts are known for their seaworthiness, with hull designs that are optimized for stability and performance. The boats are built to handle a wide range of sea conditions, making them suitable for extended cruising.

High Quality Construction & Finishes

Grand Banks Yachts are built to last and are respected for their quality building methods and use of high-quality materials such as teak, mahogany, and other luxury finishes. The company's skilled craftsmen pay attention to every detail, ensuring that every aspect of the boat is meticulously crafted and inspected to meet the company's exacting standards.

Spacious Living Spaces

Designed for serious cruising, these yachts have living spaces that are carefully designed to maximize comfort and functionality. Aboard a Grand Banks you will find galleys that are well-equipped with top-of-the-line appliances and fixtures, heads that are spacious and luxurious, as well as plenty of storage, seating, and sleeping areas.

Customizations

Grand Banks Yachts offers a variety of customizations, allowing customers to personalize their boats to suit their individual preferences and needs. Whether it's a custom interior layout, a special paint color, or a unique feature, Grand Banks Yachts works with customers to ensure that their boats are exactly what they want. As a result, each yacht is unique in its own way. Even if you are purchasing a pre-owned Grand Banks, you can be sure that certain design elements and features will be unlike any other luxury motor yacht on the water.

Where Are Grand Banks Yachts Built?

Grand Banks has been building yachts in Malaysia since the 1990’s and their manufacturing facility is known for its skilled craftsmen, modern technology, state-of-the-art equipment, and rigorous quality control process to ensure that each yacht meets their exacting standards before it is shipped to its destination. Grand Banks Yachts also has offices in the United States, Europe, and Australia, where it provides sales, service, and support to customers worldwide.

Alternatives to Grand Banks Yachts

There are several alternatives to Grand Banks Yachts that offer similar quality, craftsmanship, luxury, and style. Some notable brands include:

Each of these brands are different in their own way, offering various sizes and styles, as well as models intended for different purposes: from downeast style yachts that are ideal for day cruises, to classic style motor yachts meant for long distance cruising. Depending on your specific needs and preferences, they all may be worth exploring if you are searching for a possible alternative to a Grand Banks yacht.

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Grand Banks Yachts Sdn Bhd

Grand Banks Yachts Sdn Bhd
GBY:SP
🆔
IndustryYacht Building
Founded 📆1957 in
Founder 👔
Headquarters 🏙️ &
Products 📟 
Members
🌐 Website
📇 Address
📞 telephone

Grand Banks Yachts is a luxury yacht manufacturing company based out of Malaysia, and listed on the Singapore Stock Exchange as Grand Banks Yachts Ltd. ( GBY:SP ) [1]

Grand Banks Yachts began as American Marine [2] , established by Robert J. Newton and his two sons John and Whit Newton. They are regarded as influential in making recreational trawler -style yachts iconic [3] . In 2014 Grand Banks Yachts acquired a 100% ownership stake in Australian luxury yacht builders Palm Beach Motor Yachts, acquiring its CEO Mark Richards , skipper of 8 times line honours Sydney to Hobart winning SuperMaxi Wild Oats XI , to run the enlarged company group [4] .

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History [ edit ]

history of grand banks yachts

The original shipyard in 1956 was located on a small section of waterfront [5] in Kowloon, Hong Kong. Hong Kong was at that time a British Colony . Their first boat was launched in 1957 after 6 months of building, and Robert's other son Whit joined his brother and father, and they established American Marine Ltd building heavy sailboats and large motor-yachts for some of the world's top marine architects including Sparkman & Stephens , William Garden , Nat Herreshoff , Ray Hunt and others [6] [7] .  

In 1962, American Marine commissioned their own design through naval architect Ken Smith [8] , a 36 foot trawler named Spray that would lead into the future design of the Grand Banks 36 [9] . Within 1 year of launching Spray, American Marine ceased custom building to focus on their new 8-knot wooden cruiser, and over the next few years expanded the Grand Banks fleet to include the GB32, GB42, GB48, GB50, GB57 and GB62. The shipyard moved from Singapore in 1995 [10] and now trades out of a factory in Johor Bahru [11] , Malaysia with corporate offices in Singapore.

Redirection [ edit ]

history of grand banks yachts

Upon its acquisition of Palm Beach and appointment of new CEO Mark Richards , the shipyard in Pasir Gudang, Johor Bahru , underwent substantial refitting and development and Grand Banks moved from its previous dealership sales distribution network to a factory direct sales model [12] . The company ceased production of its line of legacy models to focus on developing more efficient and modern designs using new technology and production methods utilising carbon fiber , resin infusion and multi-axis CNC . Grand Banks is due to unveil its new flagship Grand Banks 60 in 2017 to commemorate the company's 60th anniversary.

References [ edit ]

  • ↑ "Grand Banks Yachts - Company Information" . grandbanks.com . Retrieved 2017-03-06 .
  • ↑ "Top 15 Trawlers" . Yachting Magazine . Retrieved 2017-03-06 .
  • ↑ "Grand Banks to Acquire 2nd Brand" . Yachting Magazine . Retrieved 2017-03-26 .
  • ↑ "American Marine Ltd boatyard, Junk Bay – great photographs – The Industrial History of Hong Kong Group" . industrialhistoryhk.org . Retrieved 2017-03-06 .
  • ↑ "The Making Of a Grand Banks | | PassageMaker" . www.passagemaker.com . Retrieved 2017-03-06 .
  • ↑ "Oh Wooden Aye" . www.powerandmotoryacht.com . Retrieved 2017-03-07 .

history of grand banks yachts

  • ↑ ShareInvestor. "Grand Banks Yachts: Renewal Of 30-Year Lease At Pasir Gudang Industrial Area For S$6.2 Million. - ShareInvestor.com" . www.shareinvestor.com . Retrieved 2017-03-06 .
  • ↑ "Grand Banks Yachts Annual Report 2016" (PDF) . Annual Report . October 11, 2016 . Retrieved March 26, 2017 .

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Time Machine

The launch of the GB60 marks the moment when the past caught up with the future – our history of luxury and style was re-imagined with state-of-the-art manufacturing technology. The result is a long-distance cruiser that is the most fuel-efficient in its class, capable of a high cruise speed (80%) of 22 knots and a range of over 2000 nautical miles at 10 knots. Exceptionally comfortable on board while uniquely comfortable on the water, the GB60 is truly a game changer.

The Grand Banks GB60 exterior

Cruise Speed

Cruising range.

history of grand banks yachts

CUTTING EDGE

The sharp lines of our proprietary V-Warp hull ensure that the GB60 has the softest ride imaginable in all conditions. Inspired by the ocean racing yachts on which our CEO has forged an illustrious career, the V-Warp is the lightest, strongest and fastest hull on any long-distance cruiser of this size. The combination of fine entry and 8 degree deadrise at transom delivers stability, manoeuvrability and unsurpassed fuel economy as she cuts effortlessly through the waves instead of clambering up and over them.

Hi-Tech, High Style

While family and friends kick back and enjoy the lavish amenities of the GB60, the helmsman will be enjoying a similarly relaxing time. On the direct drive option, the combination of twin-disc electronic controls and express joysticks delivers a phenomenally smooth response on open waters and fingertip handling at low speeds – essential for navigating crowded marinas and narrow slips. In tricky conditions, the Express Positioning system can lock onto your GPS co-ordinates and hold you rock steady while you attend to other matters on board.

history of grand banks yachts

It’s another world!

We’re not mass manufacturers, we’re craftsmen. Each boat is a collaboration between our designers, technicians and customers. Your GB60 will reflect your values, taste, needs and style – designed for day trips as well as long-distance cruising, it can be your world for weeks on end. But it will also reflect our values. As detail fanatics, we use only the finest book matched teak, the most luxurious fabrics and premium quality components, many of which we make ourselves.

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history of grand banks yachts

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  1. Our Story

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  2. The Making Of a Grand Banks

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  3. Legacy

    Legacy - Grand Banks Yachts. Since the 1960s, Grand Banks has been prolific in its introduction of new models and styles of luxury motor yachts. Lovingly preserved and restored, you'll find them to be ubiquitous in coastal waters, open seas and inland waterways. Two styles are revered by enthusiasts.

  4. Grand Banks

    The immediate appeal of this 36-foot, diesel-powered cruiser led the Newtons to abandon their custom yacht building business to concentrate on the production line that would eventually become Grand Banks. Since 1965, when the first models were launched, 1,136 GB36s have been built. n 1968 the factory was moved from Hong Kong to Singapore and ...

  5. Grand Banks

    The typical thumbnail history of American Marine and Grand Banks skips over an important and very interesting portion of the firm's evolution. ... Most of them remain in service today. Grand Banks yachts are in high demand, with well-maintained vessels regularly reselling for more than their original retail prices. In 1968, American Marine ...

  6. PDF Grand Banks

    Spray was launched in 1963 and a year later the Newtons abandoned their custom yacht building to focus on producing the first of a line of boats that would be known as Grand Banks. Even before Spray, however, there was the Chantyman that American Marine built of wood in its Hong Kong yard. Diesel-powered, the 34' 6" boat had a raised pilothouse ...

  7. Grand Banks

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  8. Grand Banks 42 Classic: The Gold Standard in Traditional Trawler Yachts

    Grand Banks offered the 42 with a single diesel engine as the standard, but a lot of owners (including the one who owned the 42 that I learned aboard) opted for twin power plants. With the single engine, cruising speeds were advertised at seven to 10 knots depending on horsepower. With twin 210-horsepower diesels, she cruised comfortably at 10 ...

  9. Navigate a bit of Grand Banks Yachts History

    This Grand Banks history lesson tells the tale of a company that chartered its way through history with an unaltered course embodying style, grace and precision. Any Grand Banks Yacht owner would agree. Check out the line-up of Grand Banks Yachts we have for sale or charter by calling toll-free 1-800-826-1430 or locally 1-360-676-1248.

  10. Grand Banks, the inventor of the pleasure trawler

    The inventor of the cruising trawler. The Spray is 36 feet long. When launched, the first of the series was named "Spray" and was a great success. Inspired by the design of North American trawlers, the Spray prefigures the philosophy of the Grand Banks: a raised wheelhouse, high bulwarks and curved hull lines.

  11. Past Models

    Grand Banks Past Models. Grand Banks Yachts, now going by GB Marine Group, is going on 65+ years of business in 2023! Many great years of boat building have accumulated into many models as innovation in design and construction techniques developed over time. There are three traditional series of Grand Banks which many of you know and love ...

  12. Grand Banks : Models, Price Lists & Sales

    The brand Grand Banks produces lobster boats and gozzo boats and semi-displacement yachts. There are 5 models currently in production ranging from 14 to 27 meters. ... Company history. The history of Grand Banks began in 1956. At that time Robert Newton and his sons owned a Bireley soft drink bottling plant in Hong Kong and was far from the ...

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    9. The GB Marine Group - Brief History. The GB Marine Group is home to three of the world's most famous boating brands - Grand Banks, Eastbay and Palm Beach Motor Yachts. The three brands are well established as industry leaders with a litany of accolades and a history that dates back over 65 years. What began as American Marine in 1956 with ...

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    Popular Grand Banks Models. Grand Banks has been building yachts for over 60 years and in this time has offered many different models ranging in size from 36 to 85 feet. Their current lineup of new yachts consists of the Grand Banks 54, 60, and 85, as well as the Eastbay 44 and 60. There are also several models that have been discontinued but ...

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    History [] A Wooden Grand Banks 36. The original shipyard in 1956 was located on a small section of waterfront in Kowloon, Hong Kong. Hong Kong was at that time a British Colony.Their first boat was launched in 1957 after 6 months of building, and Robert's other son Whit joined his brother and father, and they established American Marine Ltd building heavy sailboats and large motor-yachts for ...

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