Craftsmanship

Built to last a lifetime, the combination of exquisite time-honoured craftsmanship, practical, robust engineering and flawless quality are what underpins Oyster’s reputation as the builder of the finest bluewater sailing yachts. Designed and handcrafted in limited numbers in Great Britain, the Oyster 745 is both rare and exclusive.
Oyster Yachts Craftsmanship Handcrafted Yachts For Sales Man Crafting T4

Flawless build quality

Oysters are built to an exceptional standard, designed to withstand stresses far beyond normal sea states. Their strength of construction, reassuring safety and uncompromising engineering sets them apart from the competition.

The robust, seaworthy hull and deck structure are certified for strength and integrity by Lloyd’s Register. We use only the best materials and the most reliable equipment, partnering with those who share our obsession for quality.

Materials

The Oyster difference

Hull and deck shell

Hull and deck shells are manufactured from Oyster ‘custom’ laminate, which is carefully specified using unidirectional, biaxial, triaxial and quadriaxial materials, selected specifically to respond to localised stress requirements. Above the waterline, the topsides laminate is a high-tech, cored structure providing strength, stiffness and insulation. Below the waterline, the hull features a monolithic (single-skin) composite laminate forward of the aft keel bulkhead, reinforced with stringers and floors. Aft of the keel the hull area has a cored structure. The result is lighter weight, reduced shrinkage and more flexibility, increasing its resistance to micro cracking and fatigue, whilst improving impact resistance to submerged objects.

Gel coat

Our approach to gel coats ensures a beautiful, moulded surface that withstands the test of time and the elements. To achieve this, all Oysters feature a white NPG resin gel coat, renowned for its exceptional UV resistance and waterproofing qualities. We apply it at the optimum thickness—enough to maintain waterproofing, without making the surface brittle.

Deck Saloon windows

The deck saloon glass is UV-rated, heat resistant and features an Oyster trademark front opening window for natural, fresh air ventilation.

Deck hardware

Exterior hardware is crafted from high-grade stainless steel for ultimate corrosion resistance. All load bearing items—such as cleats, padeyes, winches, rigging tacks and blocks—are all over-specified to ensure integrity and bluewater sailing durability.

Mast spars and rigging

Oyster yachts are engineered for global cruising, featuring high stability and optimal ballast ratio characteristics. With larger diameter rigging for enhanced stability, we partner exclusively with the world’s finest spar makers and offer them in painted or anodised high-grade aluminium or carbon.

Beautiful hardwoods

Interiors feature individually selected hardwoods from expert sustainable sources. We select the finest examples from the highest quality timber, with minimal flaws and knots, ensuring minimal waste. This careful selection allows us to achieve perfect grain match and flawless finish on every piece.

Sumptuous seating

The material used in our luxurious saloon seating is specified for exceptional comfort and durability. All upholstery complies with the United Kingdom’s stringent Fire Regulations, which exceed EURCD requirements.

Soleboards

The soleboards are crafted with a hardwood-faced, marine ply, with a balance lamination to assist against warping and twisting. For a seamless fit, they are laid onto rubber gaskets to prevent creaking or movement.

Light fittings

Oyster yachts feature the highest quality LED lights. Operated by our proprietary digital switches, recessed, glare-free spotlights and concealed LED strip lighting are seamlessly colour-tone matched for the perfect ambient lighting mood settings.

Electrics

Electrical cabling is clearly labelled and numbered for easy testing, troubleshooting and maintenance, as well as for future modifications by owners and skippers. Exterior cables feature tinned cores to prevent corrosion and ensure reliable connections. The extensive use of waterproof connectors, both above and below decks, significantly extends the lifespan of electrical systems.

Fixtures and fittings

Built to last a lifetime, every fitting is specified to the highest quality, ensuring smooth operation and an extended lifespan. From door hinges to catches and grab handles, we take an uncompromising approach to quality.

Exterior
Interior

HERITAGE

Over a century of British boat building

For 50 years, we have been leaders in the design and handcrafting of the world’s finest bluewater cruisers, including some of the best 50 foot yachts.

Oyster Yachts Heritage Craftsmanship
1973
Great British craftsmanship

Since 1973, Oyster craftsmanship has drawn on the long tradition of boat building in Norfolk and Southampton, by working with local experts Landamores and Windboats in Norfolk, both founded over 100 years ago, and in Southampton, with SYS, a prestige shipyard building up to 25m superyachts. Together, they created the foundation for Oyster’s dedication to design, craftsmanship and attention to detail that continues today.

Oyster Yachts Heritage Tom and Rob Humphreys
1999
Rob Humphreys

Naval architect Rob Humphreys designed the Oyster 53 in 1999 and has since created 17 successful models, over 20 years. Rob designed the first of the new G6 hulls, a key feature in our new models. Amongst many benefits, it delivers a sleeker, modern appearance to create significantly more space above and below decks and enhanced sailing performance.

Oyster Yachts Heritage Flags Regatta
2012
Merge and conquer

Oyster took over and combined the workforces from Landamores, Windboats and SYS in 2012. Many of the master craftspeople are still with Oyster today at our construction facilities in Norfolk (Wroxham and Ashmanhaugh) and Southampton. Our commissioning teams operate out of Ipswich and we have a new state-of-the-art production facility at Hythe Marine Park in Southampton.

Oyster Yachts Heritage Anchored in San Blas
2013
Bluewater adventures

Originally designed as racing cruisers, Oysters’ exceptional seaworthiness meant they rapidly evolved into bluewater cruisers. Oysters visited the Arctic and circumnavigated with ease. In 2013, the Oyster World Rally was launched to celebrate Oyster’s 40th anniversary. Subsequent World Rallies set sail in 2017 and 2022, with planning for 2024 and 2026 in progress.

Oyster Yachts Heritage 885 Sailing
2018
A new generation

Richard Hadida became owner of Oyster Yachts in 2018. A proud Oyster owner, his ambitious turnaround successfully re-established Oyster’s yacht building and support operations. He has rejuvenated the brand with three new models – 495, 565 and 595 – that champion new production techniques and time-honoured British craftsmanship featured on our larger models.

Oyster Yachts Heritage 495 Sailing
2022
The future

Oyster’s focus continues to be on creating the world’s finest, bluewater British yachts, including the best 50 foot yachts, with high quality materials, exceptional craft skills and brilliant project management. Internationally recognised and respected for its meticulous build quality, supreme performance and outstanding customer support, the company is investing in creating more sustainable yachts.

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1999
2012
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2018
2022
Oyster 745 at anchor at sunset
675 at anchor in cove
oyster 565 sailing at sea
oyster 885 sailing yacht 2
oyster sailing yacht 55 foot

INSIGHTS

Building your Oyster

The journey to becoming an Oyster owner is different for everyone. For some it starts as a childhood dream, for others, it’s the culmination of years of research that leads them to conclude there is no other choice but an Oyster. But for everyone, the delights of ownership start the moment the build begins.

A key part of owning your Oyster is understanding the craftsmanship and attention to detail that go into her and the insights you pick up through the build and handover process. Being part of this process adds to the deep sense of ownership felt when stepping aboard for the first time. To ensure this experience is something to savour and cherish, we assign one of our experienced project managers to guide you every step of the way.

Our Project Managers are all experienced sailors who will help to turn your hopes, plans and dreams of adventure into reality – from the initial moulding of the hull to your in-depth handover.

Their practical experience is gained from thousands of sailing miles (many have circumnavigated), previous builds and deep knowledge of Oyster yachts. Your Project Manager will be there throughout the build. They will offer advice on all aspects of the process along the way and are well-placed to advise you on anything from choosing and installing the complex computer and AV systems to selecting the right sails down to galley equipment – even details like appliances!

Working with you, they will ensure your Oyster is beyond expectation on the day you take ownership.

Your Project Manager will take time to get to know you and understand your plans – what is most important to you in terms of finish and equipment and where you wish to sail.

Once you have chosen your model, the planning phase is critical. Our team will use their deep knowledge of Oysters and the latest equipment to help you specify a yacht that meets your exacting requirements and is the answer to your sailing dreams. Only when everything is agreed upon, understood and signed off will the major work on creating the hull and deck begin.

Your Project Manager will encourage you to visit your yacht during each build stage. The process is fascinating and provides a chance to understand the strength of the yacht’s structure, operating systems and utilities.

The build starts at our specialist moulding technology centre. Over many years, we have seen that for owners a big part of the build is the regular yard visits scheduled throughout the build, to see the yacht at key points of the process.

Owning an Oyster is made richer by understanding the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into them. These yard visits help to do just that – they are an excellent opportunity to meet our master craftspeople, see their skills in action and understand all aspects of the construction of your yacht for complete peace of mind.

We will keep you up-to-date and ensure you have all the information you need to make decisions at the right time.

Depending on the model, upon completion, the hull and deck are transported to one of our manufacturing centres, where the utilities, systems and interior are installed.

The first phase of the fit-out sees the installation of wiring looms and plumbing systems, laying the foundations for our master craftspeople to play their part. During the second phase, the furniture and cabinetry are installed and the fine details of the finish are handcrafted to the highest standards, along with any customisation you have specified.

On completion, your yacht will be handed over to our commissioning team. Commissioning takes six to eight weeks, with extreme attention to detail to meet the most exacting standards and ensure everything is perfect for when you take ownership. This is followed by a week-long handover when you will experience your yacht and systems first-hand which, combined with the detailed handover procedure, will give you complete confidence to set sail on your first adventure.