Oyster Yachts

Oyster Yachts is the Southampton-based global market leader for cruising yachts. Known for its boats’ unrivalled performance, quality and comfort, the yachts are stylish and reliable, with each model built to order.

A solidly constructed hull and handcrafted furniture go together with modern technology, equipment and systems to create a smooth, dependable home from home. Sales aren’t via dealers or agents and most owners enjoy a direct relationship with Oyster.

Established in Ipswich in 1973 by Richard Matthews, the firm soon launched a 46-foot cruiser/racer pioneering the ‘deck saloon’ feature that has since become an Oyster trademark.

The company is also a two-time winner of the Queen’s Award for Enterprise, while its Oyster 625 won 2012 Luxury Cruiser of the Year. Other company milestones include its acquisition by Balmoral Capital in 2008 and then again by HTP Investments four years later.

With more than four decades’ experience, the company has built more than a thousand units - around a third of them designed by Humphreys Yacht Design, whose team has an incredible knowledge and passion for everything sailing related. All Oysters are UK-built and all work is completed in-house.

Ranging in size from 47 to 118ft, more customisation is offered on the bigger yachts. With styling focused on the deck saloon area and designed for family and friends sailing without a crew, the classic Oyster models in the G5 fleet range include the 475, 545, 575 and 625 - so far, 125 of the four models have been built. Offering several variations on the standard layout and starting from a 47-footer, the top-selling model is the 575.

The G6 fleet of newer models has benefited greatly from the firm’s experience in superyachts bigger than 24m. The fleet has seven models, from the new 565 and 595 to the Oyster 118. Comprehensive testing has refined hull shapes, twin rudders and the powerful yet simple rig configurations. Expect sleek styling, flexibility of interior design and flush decks with powerful hulls.

As well as designing, making and selling cruising yachts, Oyster provides custom and refit, brokerage and charter services worldwide - Oyster Brokerage gives Oyster owners a specialist service if they want to sell their yachts, while Oyster Charter offers a chance to sample life onboard some of the world’s most incredible yachts. All offering comfortable interiors, roomy cockpits for glamorous dining and of course, impeccable sailing performance, choose from 56 to 125-footers.

Run by the company’s staff with the support of sponsors, Oyster Regattas has a firm emphasis on fun and socialising. Equally, Oyster celebrations are held during events including the London and Southampton boat shows and Antigua Sailing Week. Meanwhile, nearly 30 Oyster boats are currently sailing the second Oyster World Rally, 2017-19. This circumnavigation set sail from Antigua in 2017.

Oyster Yachts uses parts and hydraulic systems supplied by Phoenix Hydraulics. Established for more than 35 years, we work across many different industry sectors to meet all hydraulics system needs, from design and manufacture to installation and maintenance.