VGYD Review

Since earning his degree in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering in 1984, Geoff Van Gorkom has been accumulating design experience. His resume includes MacLane Marine Designs, Maritech Inc. and Navtec Inc. Van Gorkom worked on the creation of the IOR Maxi, Matador and the 1992 Americas Cup winner, America. In 1992, Geoff won first place in the Seahorse Design Competition for his work on an inshore/offshore water ballasted racing boat called Whitebread 30. Now as president of the Van Gorkom Yacht Design (VGYD), he leads a team that develops high-performance yachts, both power and sail.

The VGYD website lists the assets of this team as professionalism, attention to detail and a one-on-one relationship with their clients. The company offers boat design, marine engineering services, composite analysis, structural engineering and scanting development. The VGYD portfolio has a number of racing yachts plus cruising and powerboat vessels.

Among the yachts available from Van Gorkom, you will find The Lager 67. Lager is a 67-footer featuring hydraulic winches and furling system, cutter rig and carbon spars. The center cockpit has seating for eight people and stow away table for outdoor dining. The interior holds a master cabin, grommet galley, 360-degree view salon and dry/wet bar as well as a navigation station. There are two guest cabins, each with a double bed and private bath. Forward is a crew cabin with private dinette. The Lager 67 power comes from a 140 hp diesel engine.

Pricing

New custom built yacht pricing is per order. In addition to completed boats, VGYD features a number of design kits, for those wishing to construct their own craft. Kits include patterns, drawing booklet, design booklet and technical manuals. Depending on the design chosen, a kit will run anywhere from $2,140 to $4,500.

Pros

• Vast experience and education. Van Gorkom has a solid reputation as designer and a number of awards under his belt.
• Variety of yachts available. This company does not just offer one or two boats in their portfolio. The vessels come in all styles and sizes. Geoff Van Gorkom even developed what he calls a “Water Manson.”

Cons

• Limited number of review and boats test on these yachts. Most information or feedback on VGYD comes from the company itself.
• Very few pre-owned yachts by Van Gorkom. Those in search of a VGYD yacht, will most likely have to considered a new unit.

Featured Models

The 2xS Racing Series, The VG-Mini 6.5, The YCR-26, The VG-IRM9m, The VG-Open30, The VG-Mount Gay 30,The VG35, Volvo Ocean 70, The Lager 67, The Korora 68, The Lager 80, The Paradox 1050, The VG-111, The VG-RCX 46 R/C, The Villa House Boat, The Providian 62

Conclusion

Geoff Van Gorkom has a wide reputation and educational background. Van Gorkom Yacht design creates a wide range of designs, from racing vessels to houseboats. What little independent information available on this company seems to focus on practical designs that are both comfortable and fast. Those wanting to build their own yacht can purchase plans kits from VGYD that serve as a complete guide for the process. Whether you want to build or acquire a yacht, Van Gorkom probably has what you want.