Bertram Yachts is one of the most iconic names in the world of boating. Since 1960, when Richard “Dick” Bertram founded the company in Miami, Florida, the brand has been synonymous with innovation, toughness, and offshore dominance.
Its greatest contribution? Perfecting the deep-V hull, a revolutionary design that forever changed sportfishing and offshore cruising. Legendary models like the Bertram 31 set a new standard, becoming timeless symbols of strength and speed.
Over more than six decades, Bertram has gone through ownership changes, challenges, and transformations—but it has never lost its pioneering spirit. Today, under the Gavio Group, the brand blends tradition and modernity, building yachts that remain icons of durability, style, and performance. Bertram is, without a doubt, a living legend of the sea.
The story of Bertram begins with a defining moment: in 1958, Dick Bertram was blown away by a small boat designed by C. Raymond Hunt. Hunt’s deep-V hull offered unmatched stability and control in rough seas—and Bertram saw the future.
In 1960, based on that design, he built a wooden prototype called “Moppie” (his wife’s nickname). That same year, Bertram and Sam Griffith entered the grueling Miami–Nassau race, facing two-meter waves and 25-knot winds. Moppie not only won—it shattered records, finishing two hours ahead of the next boat. The deep-V hull had proven unbeatable.
The demand was immediate. Bertram founded Bertram Yacht Company in 1960, and just a year later, he launched the first production model: the Bertram 31 “Glass Moppie”, made of fiberglass. It debuted at the 1961 New York Boat Show and marked the beginning of a legend.
During the 1960s, Bertram launched models that built its reputation: the Bertram 25, 38, and 20-footers—all built on the deep-V DNA. The Bertram 31, produced until 1977 with nearly 2,000 units, became an eternal classic: tough, fast, and built for serious offshore fishing.
In 1963, Bertram expanded internationally by licensing production in Australia. Although Dick Bertram stepped down in 1964, the brand had already secured its place in the boating world.
In 1968, Whittaker Corporation acquired Bertram, allowing for facility expansion in Miami and increased production. This decade saw the birth of iconic models such as the Bertram 28, 46 Convertible, and 54 Convertible—legends in the sportfishing community.
Despite incidents like the sinking of “Brave Moppie” in 1971, the brand continued to shine in offshore competitions, further solidifying its global prestige.
The 1980s were defined by Bertram’s rivalry with Hatteras Yachts, another heavyweight in sportfishing. While Bertram stood out for offshore performance, Hatteras emphasized luxury interiors.
This period saw models like the Bertram 33, 38 Special, and 50 Convertible. However, ownership changes and the late-’80s economic downturn took a toll on the company.
In 1992, Bertram filed for bankruptcy. A short-lived recovery attempt in 1993 kept the name alive, but true revitalization came in 1998, when Ferretti Group acquired the brand.
With major investments in technology and design, Bertram made a comeback with models like the 390 Convertible, 510 Convertible, 570, and the bold Bertram 800 (2010)—a perfect blend of offshore grit and modern luxury.
In 2015, Bertram joined the Gavio Group, which also owns Baglietto. Under new leadership, the company returned to its American roots, establishing headquarters in Tampa, Florida, and relaunching modern models inspired by its classics.
Highlights include the Bertram 35 (2016)—a modern tribute to the iconic 31—the Bertram 61 Convertible, and a bold entry into the center console market with the 28 CC and 39 CC. In 2022, Bertram began production in Italy to better serve the European market.
Bertram’s impact on boating is undeniable. Its deep-V hull revolutionized offshore navigation and became an industry standard. Models like the Bertram 31 remain active today—virtually indestructible—and are considered prized collector’s items.
In 1965, Time Magazine dubbed Richard Bertram the “Enzo Ferrari of offshore boats.” His legacy lives on as a symbol of speed, durability, and vision.
Now, under the Gavio Group, Bertram continues to build on that legacy. Its latest models combine classic soul with modern engineering—reaffirming the brand as a true icon of American and global yachting.
At Camino al Mare, we share that same passion. Our founder, Roberto Camino, comes from a pioneering family—his grandfather and uncle were the first Mexicans to cross from Key West to Isla Mujeres aboard a Bertram 38 in the 1960s.
With that legacy in our DNA, we offer expert guidance to help you choose the ideal Bertram—whether it’s a collectible classic or a state-of-the-art model.
We accompany you every step of the way—from selection and importation to registration and outfitting—so your experience is as legendary as the yacht you choose.
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