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Holton Custom Yachts

Computers certainly have their place in yacht design, but no computer can replace years on the water. "I design my own hulls," says Bill Holton of Holton Custom Yachts. "I feel like my shapes come from a place in me that a computer does not have. I do use a naval architect to help with our engine placement, strut and shaft angles, etc. Today's boats have become so complex; it would be foolish for us not to get professional help in that area."
 
Based in Wanchese, North Carolina, Holton specializes in building fully custom sport-fishers up to 80 feet. Holton took to a life on the water at 11 years old, mating on charter boats. In the off-season, he worked with skilled boatbuilders, such as Sheldon Midgett and Omie Tillett. In 1973, Holton launched his first boat, a 52-footer with a blazing red hull appropriately named Fireball. The company has since delivered 43 custom yachts.
 
"We build sport-fishing boats for use in the toughest environments around the globe," Holton says. "Strength, durability, good looks and comfortable rides are our stock and trade. We will always be ahead of the curve when it comes to upgrading our strength. Engine manufacturers keep us on our toes — when a customer wants the latest edition of big power, our boats need to be up to the task." 
 

At a Glance: • Reinforced construction • Fully custom layouts and interiors • Carolina styling with broken sheer line

Using the cold-molding process, Holton adds additional layers of wood and two extra sets of stringers for additional strength. "Our strut area [highest impact area in any grounding] is the thickest on the market with alternating layers of fir, plywood and glass," he says. "We don't see cracks around our windshields or cockpit cabinetry, where any kind of flexing would be most noticeable."
 
Holton builds his boats strong but uses traditional Carolina lines and rich woodwork in the interiors. "There is no reason to fish an ugly boat," he says. "I like pretty things — especially my boats."
 
As technology continues to advance, Holton tries to stay ahead of the curve, using more synthetic materials and embracing the many advancements in diesel engines. A 45 express he's currently working on will feature the Volvo IPS drive system. "It really comes with a lot of advantages," he says.  
 
For more information on Holton Custom Yachts, of Wanchese, North Carolina, call 252-305-1450, or visit www.hutchinsyachtsales.com/holton.html.

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