Nelson_Marek_Yacht_Design Review

The team of Bruce Nelson and Bruce Marek formed in 1979 to develop a prolific San Diego yacht design team. Independently, the two offer much to the industry. Bruce Nelson is a graduate of the University of Michigan, specializing in Naval Architecture and a veteran America’s Cup racer. The two combined have produced some memorable custom yachts, including the Catalina 42. The Catalina 42 features a specially designed hull still used today by Catalina Yachts.

Many notable producers of quality yachts implement modern-day designs coming from the firm of Nelson/Marek, such as Catalina Yachts, Salthouse Brothers and U.S. Water Craft. Martin Yachts lists Nelson/Marek among their designers. One Nelson/Marek offering from Martin is The Martin 49, defined as a boat that combines the excitement of racing with comfortable cruising. This yacht features a lift keel for draught control and a generous, functional layout.

Today, the team works separately. Bruce Nelson continues to run the firm while Bruce Marek designs independently on the East Coast. Sailing Magazine writer, John Kretschmer, spent some time on Marek’s boat, Cape Fear 38 and stated, “If racing is in your blood but you want creature comforts too, this is a boat you need to consider.” As a team, they worked with well-known designer Charley Morgan to produce the Morgan 45. Morgan yachts are classics in the world of boating.

Pricing

Nelson/Marek primarily designs commission and custom yachts for other companies. Pricing for new models will depend on the producer. Pre-owned vessels are abundant and available at varying prices. One used Morgan Yacht designed by Nelson/Marek lists for $118,900.

Pros

• Bruce Nelson is a naval engineer. He has both the experience and education to develop workable, interesting designs.
• This team has worked on everything from the America’s Cup racers to the small Cha Cha for the race team, Escape.

Cons

• The team no longer works together. The modern day firm only has one component, Bruce Nelson.

Featured Models

From Marten Yachts: Marten 49, Marten 67, Marten 85. Morgan 45, Cape Fear 38, Catalina 45

Conclusion

The team of Bruce Nelson and Bruce Marek may be no more, but the designs they created live on. The design firm Nelson/Marek still works out of San Diego with Nelson at the helm. Some high-ranking producers utilize the designs from Nelson/Marek. The two prominent hitters are Marten Yachts and Catalina Yachts. One owner described his custom-made Marten 49 as carefully considered and micro-engineered. Those looking for a yacht to cruise and race will find some answers in the designs of Nelson/Marek.