Design Services & Portfolio
Overlooking Rockport Harbor, our design office creates practical, beautiful yachts tailored to each client’s vision. Whether developing original designs, supporting restorations with careful historical research, or collaborating with outside naval architects, we bring over forty years of custom construction knowledge to every project—ensuring drawings translate seamlessly from table to shop floor.
Our full-time design team provides comprehensive support throughout the build process: 3D modeling, rendering, joinery layout, weight analysis, rig planning, and structural engineering. We specialize in translating designs originally conceived in other materials into cold-molded or traditional wood construction, and work closely with our fabrication shop, machine shop, systems installers, and joiners to create detailed construction drawings that guide our builders with precision.
Contact owner Sam Temple or designer Sam Chamberlin to discuss your next project.
Recent Design Projects
LW38
The LW38 is a shallow-draft, easily handled daysailer/weekender inspired by the Little Harbor 36 and Aage Nielsen’s design no. 324, combining performance tweaks, solo-friendly rigging, and comfortable amenities in a spacious, refined package.
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R37
The R37 is an ideal dayboat and yet is remarkably well-equipped for simple cruising. With roots in the lobster yachts from the 1950s by Newbert and Wallace, the type and scale were selected to balance sea kindliness, moderate speed . . .
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Adventuress
Following an immaculate restoration and seamless updating by Rockport Marine, ADVENTURESS' exquisite aesthetics and sailing qualities continue their timeless appeal.
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Other Rockport Marine Design Projects
LW38
The LW38 is a shallow-draft, easily handled daysailer/weekender inspired by the Little Harbor 36 and Aage Nielsen’s design no. 324, combining performance tweaks, solo-friendly rigging, and comfortable amenities in a spacious, refined package.
R37
The R37 is an ideal dayboat and yet is remarkably well-equipped for simple cruising. With roots in the lobster yachts from the 1950s by Newbert and Wallace, the type and scale were selected to balance sea kindliness, moderate speed . . .
B20
Hollywood
Islander
Islander blends the design lineage of the Bahamian runabouts made famous by the Albury family and downeast lobster boats of Maine. While the design will feel right at home along our rocky coast the first hull will be delivered to the Bahamas and her open transom will provide easy access in and out of the water.
Downeast Cruisers
Two variations on a modern downeast cruiser. Both designs utilizes a moderate-V, hard-chined hull shape with classic tumblehome, wood composite construction techniques, twin diesel propulsion, and thoroughly modern mechanical and electronic systems while maintaining a distinctive classic look. Designed for coastal cruising and day trips, the interior layouts include a private stateroom with island berth, head and separate shower, a lower dining settee that can be converted to a queen-size...Read More
40′ Sloop
Designed for sailing Penobscot Bay, this cold-molded sailboat draws from the classic lines of K. Aage Nielsen’s iconic yachts and adds modern touches from sleek racers. The result is dynamic. The RM 40 Sloop is suitable for a family looking to cruise coastal waters and practical for a couple seeking ease and comfort on regular afternoon sails.
Rembrandt
REMBRANDT is a classic New England day boat designed by the Rockport Marine design office.
Classic Yawl
This 65' Spirit of Tradition yawl is intended for coastal cruising and racing in occasional classic yacht regattas.
Lobster Yacht
Drawing on our experiences with Boss Lady, we have developed a new 40' design.
Sophia
SOPHIA, a Spirit of Tradition design, is a 70′ ocean-going cruiser/racer.
Knoll House
In 2010 Rockport Marine Yacht Design was approached about the prospect of producing our first home design.
Layla
This is a boat is purpose-built for your favorite archipelago.
Island Escort
The design draws from the long heritage of working lobster boats and the yachts developed from them.