Cult Classics 2: Bertram Yachts - Legend of the 31 Moppie

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In this episode of Cult Classics, YachtWorld digs deep into the legacy and cult following of the iconic Bertram 31 and one of the most revered boat builders in the world, Bertram Yachts.

Dick Bertram first launched Bertram Yachts in 1960, using C. Raymond Hunt's legendary design to build his first powerboat, the Bertram 31, aka the "Moppie", hence laying the foundation for Bertram Yachts. The boat was an instant classic and is still highly sought after with numerous expensive and extensive restorations being done. To this day, no matter what the port, foreign or domestic, you're likely to spy the unmistakable sheer line of a Bertram 31. The international success of the Bertram moniker "the sun never sets on the Bertram empire" was built on the back of the Bertram 31. The 31 was born from racing, grew into an ideal fishing boat, and expanded into a cruising line. As we explore the boat's history from its birth under Richard Bertram to its status as an internationally known brand today, we'll learn why Bertram 31 owners are not just collectors but restorers of this iconic symbol of American built performance beauty and durability.

In 2016 the company decided to recreate the Bertram 31, but this time as the expanded Bertram 35, with the same sheer line but updated layout and design that still retained the original feel.

Cult Classics is documentary series from YachtWorld about a select group of venerated yacht builders who have earned an extremely loyal following of devoted fans and owners, helping them achieve an almost “cult-like” status. From classic downeast-style yachts with distinctive lines to iconic seaworthy titans, and revered boats with a unique and notable heritage, the series explores the stories, creeds and principles behind these esteemed vessels in great detail. Each episode of the Cult Classics video series visits a different boat builder and explores the company’s history in depth, focusing on one or two popular models that really exemplify that builder’s ethos and boat building philosophy.

Content
0:00 Intro

1:48 – Dick Bertram and sailboat racing; segue into offshore powerboat racing; Miami-Nassau wins 1956 & 57

3:00 - Dick Bertram sees C Raymond Hunt design and build the first deep-V Moppie; history of the Moppie name

3:56 – Bertram and Sam Griffith enter new Bertram deep-V hull in Miami Nassau Race 1960; lead whole race and win in record breaking 8 hours. Win creates sales craze and Bertram Yacht Company is formed.

5:21 – First fiberglass 31 Glass Moppie wins 1961 Miami Nassau race in 4 hours 20 minutes. Dick Bertram becomes a celebrity

5:59 – Bertram DNA in recreational hull debuts at New York Boat Show. Unique look, new fiberglass, deep V running surface, strength, lines and power make it an over-built “benchmark model.”

8:40 – Allure of Bertram, elegance, grace, racing reputation

9:10 – Bertram racing reputation in Europe extends growth internationally; Via Reggio, Cowes-Torquay, Miami World Championship

9:55 – New ownership under Peter Rittmaster; production building with Russ Specht and Carl Kiekhaefer, racing and tournament fishing; expansion of model line.

10:35 – 5 models produced through 1983 – 1800 hulls; 1986 Silver Anniversary edition. 60 years later, cult following, “bucket list” item.

12:22 – The quest to build the perfect Bertram 31 – make it “your own.”

14:40 – Rise of Mastery Engine Center in Yanmar diesel repowers and renovation.

16:25 – Bertram31.com fan club formed

16:45 – Gerry Santiago’s Boat renovation – history and process; aspiration, admiration, quest for ownership no matter the cost.

18:36 – Mark McManus help in securing the blank slate perfect Bertram 31.

19:32 – Total 2.5 year renovation details – like wife, “forever.”

23:00 – Russell Swift’s “Details” – personal endeavor, total customization to make father proud. No budget, everything you could want.

29:00 – Back to racing roots – Hugo Peel’s Thunderstreak

31:08 – Gavio Group’s acquisition – continuing the Bertram legacy

32:30 – Creating the Bertram 35 with Michael Peters and Tommy Thompson – remake of 31, reflecting lineage, updating the classic.

36:28 – Bertram 35 - Paying homage to the classic 31

36:43 – Sea trial and walkthrough of Bertram 35 hull #5 – Temptress; spacious fishing and cruising in comfort

42:28 – Summary – Classic design updated. “It’s a Bertram” – it’s cool

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