Sparkman & Stephens-Foremost Yacht Designers.

Sparkman and Stephens are one the more influential design offices of the 20th Century and are still in vogue today. Sparkman and Stephens, Inc. was formally created on October 28, 1929, with five partners: Drake Sparkman, James Sparkman, James Murray, Olin J. Stephens, and Roderick Stephens.

The Stephens Brothers and the Start of S&S

The Stephens brothers began their careers as self-taught sailors. Both entered the marine industry at an early age—Olin apprenticed in yacht design under Philip Rhodes, and Roderick learned shipbuilding at the prominent Nevins Yard in City Island, New York. With their father’s backing, the 21-year-old Olin and his brother formed a partnership with the successful yacht broker Drake Sparkman, creating the firm we know today.

Modern Era and Superyachts

S&S remains a powerhouse in marine design, having created production sailing yachts like the Morris 36 and 52. They have also designed several custom super-sailers, including the Victoria of Strathern and the 52-meter ketch Nazenin V, which received multiple Superyacht of the Year Awards.

America’s Cup Success

Courageous, an S&S design, successfully defended the America’s Cup in 1974 with Ted Hood at the helm. Later, under Ted Turner, it successfully defended the cup again in 1977. Sparkman & Stephens’ legacy in racing and luxury yacht design is unmatched in the 20th century.