Where It All Began: Rescuing a Classic
It all began with a passion for a classic.
A pair of dedicated Kestrel sailors, unwilling to let their beloved boat fade into obscurity, made the bold decision to invest time, effort, and a substantial amount of money to bring it up to modern standards. In early 1998, the legendary Phil Morrison, working with Roswell and Morrison, took on the challenge of reimagining the Kestrel’s interior—making it appealing for both loyal sailors and the next generation. With the full support of the Proctor family and the Kestrel Class Association, the project set sail… and we haven’t looked back since.
From those early days, Hartley Boats has gone from strength to strength.
We expanded our horizons with the Supernova, now one of the largest and most vibrant racing fleets in the UK, complete with busy open meetings and highly competitive National Championships.
Then in 2005, we launched our first Mk4 Osprey. Once again designed by Phil Morrison, this version gave the boat a fresh edge without losing its traditional soul—a careful balance that proved a huge hit. The fleet continues to grow and holds its own against newer, high-performance asymmetric classes.
A Growing Fleet and a Commitment to Tradition
In 2006, we took on production of the Wayfarer, Wanderer, and Gull dinghies, inheriting them from Porters. That same year, the Wayfarer received a modern makeover by Morrison. We're incredibly proud to continue building these legendary Ian Proctor designs right here in Derby, UK.
Between 2012 and 2015, we turned our attention to training. We developed a fleet of rota-moulded dinghies, designed to be incredibly stable and beginner-friendly. With unique, contemporary designs, the Alpha, H10, H12, H12.2, and H15 have proven ideal for training centres, newcomers, and resorts alike. These boats glide—not capsize—and are now used by UK training schools, holiday resorts, and even the military. The Navy sails the H15, while the Army uses the H12.2.
Designing the Future, One Boat at a Time
In 2016, we embraced performance again with the Blaze. Working alongside naval architect Peter Hobson, we re-designed this single-handed racked rocket to elevate its handling, speed, and style—ushering in the next generation of the Hartley Blaze.
A year later, in 2017, we added the Contender to our fleet. Returning to Hobson, we refined and updated this sleek, high-performance single-hander, making it one of the most eye-catching boats on the water.
Then came 2021—our biggest move yet. We launched the Hartley Boats Sail Loft, a full-service department producing top-quality sails, covers, and accessories for the dinghy market and beyond. Led by master sailmaker Stephen Graham, who brings over 20 years of experience to the team, the loft is set to become a cornerstone of our business.
The Zenith: Designed from Experience
In 2025 the Zenith was created from the ground up to solve a personal problem—how to enjoy single-handed sailing without the constant worry of capsizing. After a rough experience out on the water, Richard Hartley set out to design a boat that’s fast, forgiving, and reassuringly stable.
With its ballasted centreboard, light yet robust hull, and responsive handling, the Zenith offers the performance of a high-end racer with the control and comfort of a cruiser. It’s easy to rig, self-rights without drama, and is forgiving enough for sailors returning to the sport, while still being lively enough to excite.
Built on lived experience, not just theory, the Zenith isn’t just a boat—it’s a rethink of what sailing can be.
Built on Legacy. Designed for the Future.
From reviving beloved classics to innovating high-performance designs, we’ve grown into one of the UK’s most trusted dinghy manufacturers. Every boat we build is a nod to heritage—with a firm eye on tomorrow.
Proudly built in Britain. Sailed around the world.