Founded by Dick Valdes as Glas Laminates, Columbia Yachts began its voyage in 1958, fast becoming a linchpin in the fiberglass sailboat industry. The transition from Glas Laminates to Glass Marine Industries (GMI) marked the beginning of a revolutionary journey, as the firm focused on pioneering fiberglass construction for sailboats.
Columbia Yachts quickly captivated sailors' hearts with the introduction of models like the Columbia 24 and the Sparkman & Stephens designed Columbia 29. By 1964, the visionary Valdes led the company to significant financial growth through cutting-edge engineering techniques and efficient production operations, announcing Columbia Yachts as a leader in the sailing world.
With timeless designs and unprecedented comfort, Columbia Yachts unveiled the Columbia 50, the world's most significant fiberglass production sailboat at that time, sealing its reputation with wins in prestigious races such as the Chicago-Mackinac and the Newport to Ensenada.
Despite ownership transitions, including acquisition by Whittaker, and a restructuring phase through the 1970s and 1980s, the Columbia Yachts name endured. Today's Columbia Yachts bears the hallmark of its heritage, continuously pushing the boundaries of yacht-building with ultra-modern design and precision craftsmanship.
With each sail raised, Columbia Yachts champions the vanguard of marine innovation while staying true to the qualities that have defined their fifty-year legacy - exceptional yachting performance and quality construction.
