The idea of a glass Vertue evolved in 1976 when production boat building was accelerating in Europe and the UK.  The philosophy was to produce a production yacht which was in every way similar to Jack Giles’ original Cheoy Lee Vertues. The design was actually only slightly modified, about 10cms longer and 20cms wider.

The long doghouse, short cockpit arrangement was chosen as it provided greater headroom. This combined with the greater space freed up with the use of “top hat” stringer construction in the hull and lower sole, gave Vertue II far more accommodation space and improved headroom below.

The temptation to make major changes to the design was wisely and cautiously overcome. Beam was increased by necessity amidships at the rail, to facilitate easy removal from the fiberglass mould tools.  The raised sheer line of Icebird was incorporated, but the keel form, transom tumblehome and flare and the keel tuck was not tampered with.  The designers even included their trademark knighthead and raised strake in the mould tools!  Vertue Voyager hull no. 1 was proudly exhibited at the 1978 Boat Show – price £22,000 – class Lloyds 100A1.

See also the Bossoms built Vertue II Mk II (design number 0953)