History of Hillyard Yachts

The exact number of yachts built by Hillyard's is not known. It could have been as many as 800 and there are records of around 600 with tonnages between 2.5 and 29. The yachts quality of sea kindliness is legendary.

David Hillyard established his reputation as a builder of pinnaces and other small wooden vessels for the Admiralty in the First World War. In the very early 1920's he commenced building sailing yachts at the yard in Littlehampton for private ownership. One of the earliest, Twinkler 4 tons 1922, is still being sailed by owners Ted and Diana Evans out of Woodbridge on the River Deben, Suffolk.

The Hillyard's Boat List can be viewed via this link. Hillyard Boat List

Sadly, since early 2009, after over 90 years in business, David Hillyard Ltd, are no longer building and repairing yachts and have ceased trading.
Marine activity continues at the Shipyard, Ropewalk, Littlehampton.
Contact John Lampson. Telephone 01903 713 227
Self employed shipwright and some other services are available.

Three 9-ton Hillyards