Moody history

Setting quality standards since 1827

A Legacy Of Seaworthy Excellence

With roots extending back to Swanwick, Moody has become a symbol in bluewater sailing, artfully combining classical craftsmanship with modern comfort. This reputation for luxury and reliability directly manifests the brand’s philosophy of pursuing unmatched excellence in every detail.

The 19th Century

Moody's story is deeply woven into the fabric of sailing history, holding the title of one of the oldest yacht-building brands in the world. John Moody, a skilled skipper, founded a repair yard in Swanwick, near Southampton, in 1827. Requests from colleagues poured in, and although initially specialised in servicing fishing boats, he also quietly began building small dinghies on the side - laying the foundation stone that would lead to the manufacturing of leisure boats many years later.

1935

The founder's grandson, Alexander Herbert Moody, ushered in a new era for the company in 1935. He was trained in shipbuilding from his youth and pivoted the family business from repairs to manufacturing, although the service operations continued in parallel. His vision was clear: only sailing yachts 'of the highest quality' would bear the Moody name. This was exemplified with the Vindilis, a boat designed by British ophthalmologist T. Harrison Butler. Concurrently, the Swanwick site was expanded to accommodate the construction of larger yachts. During this transformative period, the Moody family also diversified into marina ownership.

The GRP Milestone

The Moody shipyard marked another significant milestone with the introduction of the Solar 40, its first sailboat constructed from Glass-Reinforced Plastic (GRP). The vessel quickly garnered acclaim from cruising sailors for its long-distance sailing performance and unparalleled comfort. This era also saw the brand collaborating with esteemed naval architects like Laurent Giles, Angus Primrose, and Bill Dixon - partnerships that catalysed Moody's ascent to becoming a leading European yacht manufacturer.

1969 The "Carbineer 46"

In 1969, Moody introduced its first-ever Decksaloon yacht - the Carbineer 46. From the London Boat Show to winning the Lloyd's Trophy, the brand walked away with numerous awards and continued to extend its lead in terms of quality with cutting-edge engineering design techniques.

1970-72

The Final Wooden Marvel

The "Swan Dancer" deck saloon was the last wooden 1970 marked the end of an era as Moody built its last wooden Decksaloon yacht - the Swan Dancer. It was sculpted by British yacht designer Frederick Parker and featured a hull of iroko on oak, known for its traditional and graceful lines. The interior, crafted in teak, offered a luxurious haven, meeting the needs of discerning owners who valued safety, style, and comfort. The Swan Dancer was also equipped with the latest in navigation and short-hand sailing aids, blending tradition and modern innovation.

A Founder's Tribute the "Moody 44"

The Moody 44 earned the distinction of being the first yacht to carry the founder's name. Over three years of meticulous development and construction, this vessel emerged as a marvel of marine engineering. It was developed in 1972 and featured teak-laid decks, a generous centre cockpit, and wheel steering for enhanced control. The interior was equally well-thought-out, from the 'U' shaped settee in the saloon to a specially designed navigation compartment. Notably, the yacht was offered in a racing version, rigged solely as a sloop for simplified yet efficient sailing.

Evolution and Partnerships

The global shifts of the 1970s, notably the world oil crisis, nudged Moody towards innovative collaborations to navigate the changing tides. In 1973, the brand cemented a fruitful partnership with Marine Projects (Plymouth) Ltd. Guided by visionary designers like Bill Dixon and Angus Primrose, the duo birthed a series of esteemed sailing yachts from 27 to 64 ft. Over the span of three decades, they unveiled 39 unique models, cumulatively selling an impressive 4,233 boats.

Exploring New Horizons

The evolving dynamics of the yacht industry marked the close of this partnership. However, Moody's unyielding spirit saw the company forge ahead. It soon found synergy with VT Halmatic Ltd, launching an all-new series spotlighting models like Moody 49, Moody 56 and Moody 66.

A New Dawn

2005 marked a significant transition for Moody when the founding family entrusted its legacy to Premier Marinas Ltd in Swanwick. Although production paused briefly, the Moody spirit was undiminished. HanseYachts AG recognised the brand's potential and acquired it in 2007. Under their stewardship, Moody embarked on a new chapter, once again producing yachts of superior elegance and performance.

The new Moody era

Authentic, exquisitely elegant deck saloon yachts

Based on the values of Alexander Moody - only the highest quality - and inspired by great classics such as Carbineer and Swan Dancer, Moody occupies a unique platform in the sailboat building world today, devoting itself to cultivating the last word in the deck saloon principle. The saloon and cockpit form an interconnected living space bearing all the hallmarks of comfort and luxury. All Moody boats feature a limitless panoramic view and maximum natural light. This means that there is more space below deck for luxury cabins, which truly deserve the name. Deck saloon yachts: to this day, nobody encapsulates the concept in a more luxurious, efficient and reliable way than Moody - the company that launched it.

During this period, Moody honed its approach to blending opulence and practicality on the water. The Decksaloon 45 was introduced in 2008 and served as a benchmark for the brand's vision of the future. It featured one-level living spaces adorned with details typical of a luxury apartment. The following year saw the debut of the Aft Cockpit series. This range perfectly united sailing tradition with contemporary luxury, reflecting Moody's enduring commitment to harmonising its rich heritage with forward-thinking design.

Moody took its brand evolution a step further in 2012 with the launch of the Decksaloon 54. Designed for long voyages and circumnavigation, it included amenities like four double cabins and three bathrooms alongside a cutting-edge sail plan.