The Legacy of the Bertram 31: America’s Most Beloved Sportfisher
Few names in the world of powerboating command the same reverence as Bertram Yachts. Founded in the early 1960s, Bertram revolutionized offshore boating with the introduction of the deep-V hull-Rafael Benavente
Bertram Yachts: The Birth of the Deep-V Legend
By Rafael Benavente
Few names in the world of powerboating command the same reverence as Bertram Yachts. Founded in the early 1960s, Bertram revolutionized offshore boating with the introduction of the deep-V hull, creating vessels that were faster, stronger, and more seaworthy than anything that came before.
From bluewater tournament fishing to luxury cruising, Bertram boats have carved their legacy in fiberglass, innovation, and adrenaline.
🌊 The Origins: Richard Bertram and the Moppie Legacy
The story begins with Richard Bertram, a champion sailor, yacht broker, and powerboating enthusiast. In 1960, Bertram commissioned a 30-foot wooden race boat designed by naval architect Ray Hunt, who had just developed the revolutionary deep-V hull — a design that sliced through rough seas with unmatched stability and speed.
That boat, named “Moppie” after Bertram’s wife, stunned the boating world by dominating the 1960 Miami–Nassau Race in rough conditions, completing the 184-mile course in just over 8 hours — more than an hour ahead of the next competitor.
The performance of the prototype caught the attention of racers, the military, and recreational boaters alike. Soon after, Bertram Yacht Company was born.
🛥️ The Launch of the Bertram 31: A Legend Is Born
In 1961, Bertram launched its first production model — the Bertram 31, based directly on the winning “Moppie” design. It was a game changer:
- Twin diesel or gas engines
- Seaworthy deep-V hull
- Top speeds over 30 knots
- Heavy fiberglass layup for durability
The Bertram 31 wasn’t just a boat — it was a weapon. It became the gold standard for serious offshore anglers and helped launch Bertram’s reputation for building boats that could handle the worst seas with confidence.
More than 1,860 Bertram 31s were built between 1961 and 1983, and many are still in operation today — prized by collectors, captains, and restoration specialists.
🧭 Expansion and Dominance in the Offshore Market
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Bertram expanded its lineup with new models ranging from 25 to 60 feet, all incorporating the same DNA:
- Rugged construction
- Luxurious accommodations
- Unmatched offshore capability
Popular models included:
- Bertram 28 – a downsized version of the 31 with better economy
- Bertram 33 and 46 – favorites of tournament anglers
- Bertram 54 – a flagship for those chasing big game in big seas
Bertram boats became synonymous with power, performance, and prestige, gracing marinas from Florida to the French Riviera.
⚓ Ownership Changes and Industry Challenges
Over the decades, Bertram changed hands several times:
- 1964: Acquired by Whittaker Corporation
- 1980s: Part of the American conglomerate Bangor Punta
- 1990s: Purchased by Ferretti Group, an Italian luxury yacht manufacturer
- 2015: Acquired by Argo Nautical Ltd., returning the brand to U.S. ownership
Each change brought shifts in production, model updates, and business strategy. While quality sometimes fluctuated during transitions, the Bertram name continued to carry weight.
🔧 The Classic Bertram: A Cult Restoration Favorite
Today, classic Bertram models — especially the 31, 28, and 46 — are beloved by purists and collectors. Restoration shops from Florida to Australia specialize in bringing these boats back to life with modern systems while retaining their vintage styling.
The Bertram 31 in particular is a restoration icon, often retrofitted with:
- New diesel engines
- Custom tuna towers
- Updated interiors
- Seakeeper gyros (in rare cases)
It’s not uncommon to see a 1970s Bertram 31 selling for $150,000+ after restoration — a testament to the enduring value of the original design.
🚀 Bertram Today: Modern Power with Classic Soul
Under new ownership, Bertram has re-emerged with modernized offerings that stay true to its core DNA:
- Bertram 35 – a reimagined take on the classic Bertram 31
- Bertram 50 and 61 – combining luxury with serious offshore capability
- Bertram 28CC and 39CC – center consoles for a new generation
These boats are now built in Tampa, Florida, with an emphasis on rugged construction, fishability, and clean aesthetics. While competitors like Viking, Hatteras, and Contender dominate market segments, Bertram retains a loyal fanbase drawn to its history, pedigree, and American craftsmanship.
🎣 Why Bertram Still Matters
In an era of carbon fiber, high-tech outboards, and digital everything, Bertram reminds boaters what truly matters:
- A hull that can handle anything
- A layout that’s designed by fishermen, for fishermen
- A legacy that spans more than 60 years
Whether you’re trolling for tuna off Montauk or just dreaming about your next restoration project, Bertram offers more than just a ride — it offers a connection to boating history.