C&C Yachts Review

The forerunner to C&C Yachts, Cuthbertson and Cassian, was founded in Ohio in 1961 by George Cuthbertson and George Cassian. Cuthbertson was a mechanical engineer and Cassian an aircraft designer prior to launching their yacht design group. After impressing the boating world with the Red Jacket, a 40 foot racing sloop, in 1965 they were joined by Hinterholler Yachts, Bruckmann Manufacturing, and Belleville Marine to form C&C Yachts in 1969. The same year the Canada’s Cup Race began. The company manufactured many of the winners over the next ten years. The 1970s was a period of tremendous growth for the company and the sailing industry as a whole. There excellent reputation for quality and speed helped them quickly climb to the top of the field. Success continued through the next two decades when, in 1997, the company was procured by Fairport Yachts.

Since Fairport Yachts took over the company C&C Yachts has continued to thrive and be a leader in the industry. Three new models have been introduced; the C&C 121, 110, and 99. In 2002 the company became the first to build all lines with foam-cored, post-cured epoxy hulls with carbon reinforcements. By 2004 all models began being fitted with carbon-fiber masts as the standard instead of as an option.Quality customer service and an excellent record for quality construction have helped make this one of the C&C Yachts quite popular with customers who are interested in both new and used boats.

Pricing

The prices for C&C Yacht boats are based on order specifications and can be calculated by contacting a local dealer. Used boats range widely in price depending on the year they were made and their length. For example a 30’ Tartan 30C made in 1974 may be found for less than $14,000 while a 37’ Tartan 3700 built in 2008 could cost more than $300,000.

Pros

• One of the most luxurious interiors in the field.
• Epoxy composite hulls that are of competition quality.
• Strong decks that are low maintenance.
• High level of customability

Cons

• Prohibitively expensive for any other than truly dedicated racers.
• Limited availability of dealers.
• The design of the sail is not easily accessible to novice sailors.

Featured Models

Current models of C&C Yachts include C&C 99, C&C 110, C&C 115, C&C 121, C&C 131.

Conclusion

C&C Yachts have produced some of the finest racing boats in North America. Yachts made in the 1970s are still actively being entered into races and the newer models are popular as well. These yachts are extremely expensive because of the detail and quality and retain their value quite well. Classic C&C Yachts are an excellent investment for those serious about racing or for amateur enthusiasts.