All Alan Buchanan Boats For Sale

The celebrated naval architect Alan Buchanan, credited with designing the first glass fibre yacht in Europe, sadly died peacefully at home in Jersey on Monday, 26 January 2015.

Born in 1922, Alan Buchanan first trained as an aircraft engineer. He started working as a young draughtsman at De Havilland aircraft factory in Stag Lane Aerodrome Edgware London before setting up as a boat designer.

Originally based in Burnham-on-Crouch, Alan Buchanan moved his office to Jersey in the 1960s. Here Alan enjoyed a long and distinguished career in yacht design. This design included his own very successful racing yacht, the Taeping, a 31ft Bermudan sloop. Entering the East Anglian Offshore Individual Championship, the Taeping she wone in her first season.

From early in 1970, Buchanan continued to work from his home in Jersey and is credited with having designed more than 2,400 boats in his long career. In 1979 and recognition of his outstanding achievements, Alan Buchanan was awarded a medal from the Small Craft Group of the Royal Institution of Naval Architects.

 

Alan Buchanan’s boats are highly regarded by enthusiasts and owners, and many of his designs are considered classics within the sailing community. Owners often describe Buchanan's boats as blending performance with elegance, making them highly desirable for both racing and cruising. Here are some common traits and feedback from owners' groups about his yachts:

Classic Design and Aesthetics

• Timeless Appeal: Buchanan's yachts are often praised for their timeless, classic lines. The traditional designs, especially in wooden boats, are admired for their beauty both in and out of the water. The yachts typically feature long overhangs, graceful sheer lines, and well-proportioned decks, giving them an elegant appearance that stands out in any marina.
• Attention to Detail: Owners often note the craftsmanship and attention to detail in Buchanan’s designs, whether the boats were built in wood or, later, in glass fibre. The boats are often described as not just functional, but also as works of art.

Sailing Performance

• Balanced Performance: Buchanan's yachts are known for their balanced performance on the water. They tend to have a moderate to heavy displacement, providing a stable and comfortable ride, especially in rough conditions. This makes them popular among those who appreciate a yacht that performs well in various weather conditions.
• Racing Success: Several Buchanan-designed yachts, like the Taeping, have achieved significant success in racing, especially in offshore and coastal events. Owners frequently mention how well these boats handle and perform in competitive sailing, often outperforming more modern designs due to their excellent handling characteristics and solid build.

Seaworthiness and Durability

• Solid Construction: Buchanan’s yachts, particularly those made of glass fibre, are noted for their robust construction. Owners often speak about the durability of these vessels, with many boats still in active use decades after they were built. The strong build quality makes them suitable for long voyages and challenging sea conditions.
• Seaworthiness: These boats are highly regarded for their seaworthiness. Many owners trust them for long-distance cruising, including transatlantic crossings. The designs tend to have deep keels and well-protected cockpits, which contribute to their capability in offshore sailing.

Comfort and Livability

• Comfortable Interiors: Despite their performance capabilities, Buchanan's yachts are also known for comfortable, well-thought-out interiors. Owners often mention the clever use of space, with practical layouts that make them enjoyable for extended cruising.
• Livable for Long Cruises: The boats are often equipped with ample storage, and the interior designs are both functional and comfortable, making them suitable for long-term living aboard.

Community and Legacy

• Passionate Ownership: There is a strong sense of community among Buchanan yacht owners. Many of these yachts are maintained with great care, and there is a shared passion for preserving and sailing these classic vessels. Owners' groups and forums are active, where tips, advice, and stories are shared about maintaining and sailing Buchanan’s designs.
• Legacy of Innovation: Owners and enthusiasts often express a deep respect for Buchanan’s contributions to naval architecture, particularly in how he transitioned traditional wooden designs to the use of glass fibre, without losing the essence of what made his boats special.

Overall, Alan Buchanan’s boats are celebrated not just for their technical achievements, but for the joy they continue to bring to their owners. Whether racing, cruising, or simply appreciating their craftsmanship, Buchanan’s yachts are seen as a lasting testament to his skill and vision as a naval architect.

Manufacturer information provided by Network Yacht Brokers Barcelona