One of America’s leading builders of affordable, mid-sized trawlers and Downeast power cruisers since 1978, Mainship Boats continues to be one of the most popular yacht brands around. After weathering difficult market conditions, Mainship was eventually acquired by David Marlow in 2012 and the company has re-emerged stronger than ever. After Marlow joined the team, Mainship released a range of new models built for families and day-trippers that ensured the shipyard’s continued success, a testament to the brand’s strength and adaptability.
Mainship’s origins stretch back to the small New Jersey town of Morgan where, in the 1930s, Henry Luhrs established the Henry Luhrs Sea Skiff Company. This firm was an early adopter of Henry Ford’s production line methods, applying efficient industrial practices and economies of scale to the development of sailing yachts. In 1965 the company was sold on, and the family established Silverton Marine shortly after to retain a stake in the yachting industry. By 1978 the Luhr family realised that the future of yachting lay with diesel-powered yachts, and so the Mainship Corporation was formed.
Mainship’s first vessel was a 34-foot cruiser, affordable and spacious enough for middle-class families to purchase, yet stylish and innovative enough to stand out from the crowd. The success of Mainship’s mid-sized boats allowed the firm to eventually expand into the world of Mediterranean-style cruisers in 1988. Bigger and more glamorous, these yachts were built at a new shipyard in St. Augustine, Florida, and over the years more than 1200 boats in both styles were launched by the firm.
Yet difficulties were encountered in 2008 when the financial crisis impacted the yachting market – but the company’s story does not end there. In 2012 David Marlow, owner of Marlow Yachts, bought out the company and set to work to revitalise their inventory. Marlow decided to maintain Mainship’s focus on family-oriented mid-sized cruising vessels while maintaining the firm’s ever-popular traditional styling. He also added more than a dash of innovation, ambition and modern style to this heritage firm. Shifting manufacturing to his own factory in Alachua, Florida, Marlow introduced four new ranges of yachts from 31 to 37 feet in length under the brand name Marlow Mainship Pilot.
Mainship yachts utilise next-generation technologies in their construction, from Kevlar and carbon-fiber reinforcement at the strut keel, to resin-infused, Nida-Core hulls for more durable and lighter vessels. Another major development has been the inclusion of a reverse transom to provide increased deck length, a move that allows for an extra few feet of leisure space to the aft. Other upgrades to the Mainship design include sturdy, stainless steel cleats and fixtures, as well as varnished teak interiors and large, panoramic windows for greater natural light. These classy touches not only add elegance to the crafts but greater durability and ease of use. Engines have also undergone a rethink, with power now supplied by Yanmar, with top speeds on the new yachts capable of reaching well over 20 knots. Though many loyal Mainship customers initially expressed trepidation about the changes to their favourite brand, the moves have ultimately proved to be immensely popular, with Mainship models now selling better than ever.
MAINSHIP MODELS
Marlow Mainship Pilot 34
A semi-open pilothouse yacht in the classic Downeast style, the Marlow Mainship Pilot 24 is the perfect cruising vessel for summer days when you want to be out in the elements. All-weather, U-shaped fitted sofas provide setting for relaxed soirees and afternoons out at sea, while an extendable swimming deck will prove popular with your more adventurous guests. Get some rest in the spacious V-berth to the bow as your yacht gently cruises at speeds between 15 and 20 knots.
Marlow Mainship Pilot 37
The largest of the newer models from Marlow Mainship, this impressive yacht sits almost 42 feet long in the water with a maximum beam of over 12 feet. This extra space is put to good use to accommodate a master stateroom and kitchen galley on the lower deck, with a smaller V-Berth at the bow. An al fresco aft deck includes a collapsible rear panel that doubles as a swimming deck, while the pilot house is big enough to fit in side-sofas and a teak coffee table. Powerful enough to complete your most ambitious day cruising itineraries, the yacht is powered by Yanmar engines with at least 320 horsepower.
Marlow Mainship Pilot 32
The first new model to be launched by David Marlow in 2013, the Marlow Pilot 32 is a 38-foot-long Downeast-style yacht perfect for leisure cruising. Classic good looks are complemented by a Kevlar reinforced hull, a raised bow to reduce spray and an underwater skeg for increased stability on the turn. The yacht has enough space for a saloon and kitchen and a maximum occupancy of 8 guests, while an extending rear panel doubles as a swimming platform or sundeck while at anchor. This yacht can be fitted with one of three Yanmar engines for supreme cruising performance.
Mainship 47
One of the brand’s vintage yachts from the 1990s and still an incredibly prized used model, the Mainship 47 is immediately recognisable due to its raised flybridge and ample aft-deck. The perfect yacht for entertaining, a large saloon with sectional seating is big enough to include a full wet bar, kitchenette and entertainment center, while the lower deck fits in two spacious en-suite cabins. Twin Detroit Diesel engines and a Kohler generator ensure top speeds of up to 25 knots.
How to Buy a Mainship Yacht
If you’re interested in purchasing a Mainship yacht, a Staten Island Yacht Sales professional can assist you in your buying needs. All employees are trained to identify as many ways as possible to improve your experience when purchasing a Mainship yacht. As a 100-percent customer-driven business, SI Yachts delivers every time.
How to Sell Your Mainship Yacht
Staten Island Yacht Sales has the experience and the product knowledge to sell your Mainship yacht. Selecting the right full-service brokerage firm when selling your yacht improves the likelihood of a seamless and timely transaction. Listing your Mainship with SI Yachts, you can be certain it is in the hands of dedicated professionals. Over 50 years in business, our devoted Sales Professionals work attentively to provide you with first class representation.