Established by Leon Shaw in 1982, Jefferson Yachts are manufactured in Taiwan by Her Shine Marine. The company builds trawlers and motor yachts with their first model being the Jefferson 45 that was introduced in 1982. Throughout the ‘80s and ‘90s, the fleet grew exponentially, and the company manufactured some of the most popular imports sold in the United States. The yard introduced its line of US-built center console fishing boats in 1994, but with the downturn of the economy, the company had to declare bankruptcy in 2012.
Eventually, Leon Shaw’s son David joined the company as the designer and draftsman and commissioned new Jefferson models. He also acted as the company specialist and liaison with the NMMA to ensure that each Jefferson model was built to their standards. Because of this effort, Jefferson Yachts was the first builder to import yachts certified by the NMMA.
Jefferson Models
Brought to market in 1985, the Jefferson 42 Sundeck was a highly popular Jefferson model and could perhaps be noted for establishing the brand’s reputation. Built of solid fiberglass, the yacht integrates a long keel for directional stability. Numerous models were built with a two-stateroom, galley down layout that features a handmade full teak interior. She features a vast master suite with a walkaround queen bed, plenty of storage, and a en suite that has a tub and a shower. Up top, the spacious flybridge features a forward helm station and aft seating to enjoy the views while underway.
Three years into production, Jefferson Yachts grew quickly and its vessels were eventually offered nationwide through a network of 16 dealers, on both the east and west coasts. Reaching record-breaking sales goals, over 85 Jefferson models ranging in size from 37 feet to 60 feet were delivered in 1988. Leading another year with over 85 new yachts constructed, Jefferson led the way with its 42ft and 46ft Sundeck motor yachts. The shipyard then goes on to launch the larger 52ft Marquessa, that soon became the most popular Jefferson model ever made.
In 1990, the company brought 12 new models to market including its Viscount Sundeck, the Marlago motor yacht, the Rivanna, and the Convertible. At this time, many sporfisherman owners were downsizing to center console yachts to save time and money. The Marlago FS35 filled this need in the market, as it was a fast, offshore vessel that could accommodate a crew of 6-8, easily. The Marlago features a deep-v hull, stepped transom with a modified pad keel that resulted in fast speeds, and an efficient, smooth ride. Marlago was one of the first manufacturers to offer offshore center consoles over 30 feet. In 1999, the Jefferson Starship series was introduced.
Jefferson yachts for sale continue to be popular and well-respected. Although the company is no longer in operation, there are many Jefferson yachts for sale on the water today, and many can be viewed here on YATCO.com.
Shiptyard Stats
- Size: 35 to 82 feet
- Type: Trawlers, motor yachts and center console fishing boats
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