Oundle-based Fairline Yachts started building boats in 1967 and in the last 51 years they have created a stunning range of motor yachts. With the Targa 43 Open launched this September and the F-Line 33 out next year, we take a look at the shipyard's most iconic craft

 

 

The first of Fairline’s extensive range, the Fairline 19 was built in 1967 and 700 were sold in its eight year production run. This pocket cruiser is also famous for being the on-site marshall boat during Donald Campbell’s ill-fated waterspeed record attempt on Coniston Water.

 

The Turbo 36 was a standout boat for Fairline from the moment it was launched  in 1981. Its spacious, aft cabin design and confident seakeeping made it the ideal home away from home and that was reflected in sales. Still a sought after model today.

 

The first of the Fairline Targa range was manufactured in Oundle between 1984 and 1991 and has become a true Fairline icon.

 

The Targa 30 gave customers the opportunity to buy into the Fairline brand for a reasonable price, the equivalent to the A-Class in the Mercedes range. It looked and felt like a scaled down version of the larger Targa models and you don’t see many of its ilk these days.

 

Built at a period when Fairline seemed unable to do wrong, the 47 is one of the most well-rounded sportscruisers ever built. The Bernard Olesinski hull was an absolute gem and endowed the 47 with fine seakeeping but left enough room to provide a comfortable and beautifully built three-cabin interior.

 

Launched in 2005 the Fairline Targa 62 GT was a superb example of a big Med sportscruiser. One of the last big Targas to prioritise a soft ride and dynamic handling over interior accommodation, it still stands out as an icon of its era.

 

One of the Oundle yard’s most successful models, selling a remarkable 115 examples over a 16-year period. The longtime flagship combined sleek styling, excellent seakeeping and top drawer build quality to confirm its status as a true modern classic.

 

One of the finest all rounders to have existed in this super-competitive corner of the market. It was packed with innovation that we take for granted these days, like a proper overhead shower on the bathing platform and glazing in the transom to pour natural light into the usually forgotten crew cabin. On top of that it had an enormous flybridge and a VIP cabin so luxurious it could easily be considered the master over the full-beam ensuite.

 

The boat that announced that Fairline was back. After a tumultuous period the 63 GTO was launched at Cannes last year with a gorgeous Alberto Mancini exterior and the quality and attention to detail expected of such a respected marque. It may not be the perfect package but as a shining beacon of Fairline’s rebirth it was incredibly important.

 

Okay, we’re cheating a bit here as this boat hasn’t been launched yet but the simple fact that the yard has designed it and is building it is an excellent sign for Fairline’s future. A Mancini-styled open sportsboat capable of 50 knots for £250,000? Yes, we’ll have some of that.