Miami International Yacht Sales has specialized in Bertram yacht brokerage since 1990. Our team has personally surveyed, listed, and sold dozens of Bertram vessels across South Florida, the Bahamas, and beyond. The history and insights in this guide come directly from our hands-on experience with these iconic boats.
What Is Bertram Yachts?
Bertram Yachts is an American luxury sportfishing and recreational boat manufacturer founded in Miami, Florida in 1960 by competitive sailor and yacht broker Richard Bertram. The company is best known for introducing the deep-V hull design to production powerboats through its legendary Bertram 31 — a hull geometry that revolutionized offshore boat handling and became the global standard for high-performance sportfishing vessels. As of 2026, Bertram Yachts operates under the ownership of the Italian Gavio Group, continuing to produce premium yachts including the flagship Bertram 61 Convertible.
If you are researching Bertram yachts for sale in Miami or want to understand what makes a Bertram different from other sportfishing brands, this complete timeline guide covers everything — from Richard Bertram’s founding story to the brand’s current lineup and why Bertram remains one of the most sought-after names in the Miami yacht market.
Bertram Yachts have a long American heritage that potential Bertram yacht owners should know about. In this blog, we have mentioned the complete history of the company that helped them get where they are right now. If you love reading history through a timeline, you are definitely going to like this one.
Timeline History and Story of Bertram Yachts
Richard Bertram and His Fondness for Yachting
Bertram was a competitive sailor and owned a yacht brokerage firm, outside of Miami that he started in 1947. This was his bread before he began the Bertram Yachts. But his fondness for yachting can be dated way back. He was about eight years old when he got his first boat which was a 15’ sneakbox. This was the age when boating became his favorite pastime.
While he was studying at Cornell University, he founded Cornell’s very own Corinthian Yacht Club. Under his participation, the university club won several sailing titles till 1937. He continued sailing even after moving to Miami and even made it to the World Lightning Class championships for the years 1948 and 1949. He went on to participate in several races only to find a company in the other two people. These people were Sherman F. “Red” Crise and Sam Griffith.
Expert Insight: Richard Bertram’s dual background — as a competitive offshore racer and as a working yacht broker with market knowledge — gave him a rare advantage. He understood both performance engineering and what buyers actually wanted. This combination is exactly why the Bertram 31 became a commercial success, not just a racing trophy.
Foundation of Bertram Yachts (1960)
In 1958, while participating in one of his races, Richard Bertram noticed a 23-foot-long beauty and immediately fell in love with it. He had never seen a powerboat so magnificent that he himself wanted to own one. He asked the designer, C. Raymond Hunt, to design one for him. Using Hunt’s plan, Bertram in 1960 built his first powerboat yacht Moppie. It was named after his wife’s pet name. This laid the foundation of Bertram Yachts.
The C. Raymond Hunt Deep-V Hull: Why It Changed Everything
The boat that inspired Richard Bertram was designed by naval architect C. Raymond Hunt, who had developed a radical deep-V hull with a sharp deadrise angle running the full length of the bottom. At the time, most offshore powerboats used flat or shallow-V hulls that pounded violently in choppy seas. Hunt’s design sliced through waves rather than slamming over them, delivering a dramatically smoother ride at higher speeds.
According to marine engineering records, the deep-V hull concept had existed theoretically but had never been successfully applied to a production powerboat before Bertram commercialized it in 1960. The Bertram 31 Moppie’s racing success proved the hull’s superiority in real-world offshore conditions — data that competitors and boat builders worldwide immediately took notice of.
Today, the deep-V hull is the industry standard for offshore sportfishing boats, center consoles, and high-speed recreational craft. Every time you ride offshore on a smooth-riding powerboat, you are experiencing C. Raymond Hunt’s geometry, commercialized by Richard Bertram.
Bertram Yachts and The Legend of The 31 Moppie
The Bertram 31 Moppie stands as a testament to Bertram’s genius. The yacht quickly gained acclaim for its superior design and seaworthiness. This iconic vessel became a symbol of Bertram’s commitment to building high-performance yachts that could withstand the rigors of competitive racing and pleasure cruising alike.
Why Is the Bertram 31 Considered a Classic?
Yes — the Bertram 31 is widely considered one of the most important production boats ever built. Naval architects, marine historians, and yacht brokers consistently cite three reasons: first, it was the first mass-produced boat to successfully use the deep-V hull at offshore speeds; second, it proved its design through racing victories rather than just marketing claims; and third, its fibreglass construction (relatively new at the time) demonstrated that fibreglass hulls could be both strong and seaworthy. Well-maintained Bertram 31s from the 1960s and 1970s still actively cruise and fish in Miami and Florida waters today — a testament to construction quality that few boats from any era can match.
Introduction of New Boats (1962, 1963 and 1964)
Bertram Yachts later went on to build new boats. There were three that were built, which were:
The 25’ line in 1962
The 38’ line in 1963
The 20’ inboard/outboard model in 1964
While producing these yachts, Bertram decided to have its own production unit. Many people do not know but the production facility was designed in such a way that it could also work as a food-processing warehouse, just in case. Luckily, Bertram never needed it.
Memorial Race for Partner Griffith (1963)
Bertram’s partner passed away in 1963. So, Richard Bertram organized a memorial race to pay tribute to him. Not only did he organize but he also participated and won the race.
This event was not just a tribute but also a demonstration of Bertram’s enduring prowess and dedication to the sport. Dick Bertram participated in the race, showcasing his skill and determination. His performance was nothing short of remarkable. This victory elevated Bertram’s status to that of a celebrated yacht racer and influential figure in the maritime world. His triumph in the memorial race earned him significant media attention, leading to appearances in Rolex advertisements and billboards promoting Camel cigarettes. Bertram’s successful association with the title of ‘Champion’ solidified his legendary status and further cemented the Bertram name in the annals of yachting history.
Nautec Purchased Bertram
Despite Bertram’s success and the iconic status of the 31 Moppie, the yacht manufacturing business faced challenges following Bertram’s departure from the company. The factory experienced a period of stagnation, and the future of the Bertram brand seemed uncertain.
In the wake of this turmoil, Nautec, a prominent entity in the maritime industry, stepped in and acquired the Bertram brand. This acquisition was pivotal in revitalizing the Bertram legacy. Nautec’s investment in the Bertram facilities ensured that production resumed, and the Bertram name continued to be synonymous with quality and innovation in yacht building. Under Nautec’s stewardship, Bertram yachts retained their prestigious reputation, building on the foundation laid by Richard Bertram and his groundbreaking designs.
Whittaker Corporation Purchased Bertram (1968)
In 1968, Bertram Yachts underwent a significant transition when Whittaker Corporation acquired the company from Nautec. This change in ownership brought renewed vigor and ambition to Bertram. Under Whittaker’s stewardship, Bertram continued to dominate the competitive yachting scene. The brand maintained its reputation for high performance, clinching victories in various prestigious events. Whittaker’s investment in Bertram ensured the company not only retained its competitive edge but also expanded its influence in the yachting world.
The Era of Steady Growth (1970 to 1980)
The 1970s through the 1980s marked a period of remarkable growth for Bertram Yachts. During this era, the company capitalized on its strong foundation and continued innovations to expand its market presence. The steady growth was driven by Bertram’s commitment to quality and performance. The yachts produced during this period were renowned for their craftsmanship and advanced design, contributing to the brand’s increasing popularity among yacht enthusiasts. This growth era solidified Bertram’s position as a leading name in the industry, renowned for its luxurious and high-performance vessels.
Hatteras – The Arch-Rival of Bertram (1980s)
As Bertram Yachts continued to thrive, the 1980s brought a new challenge in the form of Hatteras Yachts. The competition between these two giants of the yachting world was intense. Hatteras emerged as a formidable rival, offering a more diverse range of models. The competition was not just about technological advancements but also about market share and innovation. Despite Bertram’s strong performance, Hatteras’s broader model range allowed it to capture a significant portion of the market. This rivalry was a defining moment for both brands, shaping the direction of the industry and the future of luxury yachts.
Bertram vs. Hatteras: What’s the Key Difference?
Bertram and Hatteras are both legendary American sportfishing brands, but they appeal to different buyers. Bertram is famous for offshore performance — the deep-V hull design makes Bertrams exceptional in rough, open-water conditions typical of the Gulf Stream and Bahamas crossings off Miami. Hatteras built its reputation on larger convertibles with more interior space and cruising comfort. For Miami-based anglers who run offshore regularly, Bertram’s ride quality in steep chop is often cited as the deciding factor. For buyers prioritizing interior volume and liveaboard features, Hatteras has historically offered more options.
|
Feature |
Bertram Yachts |
Hatteras Yachts |
| Heritage | Miami, FL — deep-V offshore racing DNA | High Point, NC — large convertible focus |
| Hull Design | Sharp deep-V, superior in rough water | Moderate V, larger interior volume |
| Best For | Offshore fishing, Gulf Stream, Bahamas runs | Liveaboard cruising, blue-water passages |
| Miami Market | Extremely popular — strong resale value | Popular for larger convertibles 50ft+ |
| Ownership | Gavio Group (Italy) since 2015 | Brunswick Corp. (US) |
Financial Difficulties for Bertram (1993)
The early 1990s brought significant challenges for Bertram Yachts. The company’s focus on sportfishing boats, combined with a weakening American economy, created financial strain. The economic downturn affected the luxury goods market, and Bertram was not immune to these pressures. By 1993, the financial difficulties became severe, leading to a forced shutdown of the company. This period was a challenging chapter in Bertram’s history, marked by uncertainty and the need for strategic reassessment.
Bertram Yachts Purchased by Ferretti Group (1998)
In 1998, Bertram Yachts was revived when the Italian Ferretti Group acquired the brand. This acquisition marked a new era for Bertram, bringing fresh energy and innovation to the company. Under Ferretti’s ownership, Bertram underwent a significant transformation. The Italian group invested in modernizing the brand and introduced several new and impressive models. This revival not only reestablished the brand’s presence in the yachting world but also ensured the legacy of its high-performance and luxury yachts continued to thrive.
The Sad Demise of Richard Bertram (2000)
In 2000, the yachting world mourned the loss of Richard Bertram, the visionary founder of Bertram Yachts. His passing marked the end of an era for the company he had so profoundly shaped. His innovative spirit and dedication to yacht design established Bertram as a leader in the industry. Bertram’s legacy includes not only the groundbreaking designs of the 31 Moppie but also his contributions to competitive yachting, which helped define the standards for luxury and performance at sea. His death left a void in the world of yachting, but his influence continues to be felt through the enduring legacy of Bertram Yachts.
Acquisition of All Bertram’s Assets by Gavio Group (2015)
In 2015, Bertram Yachts experienced a new chapter when the Gavio Group acquired all of its assets. The acquisition by the Italian conglomerate marked a strategic move to revitalize the Bertram brand. Gavio Group, known for its investments in luxury and high-performance brands, planned to leverage Bertram’s history to introduce new models and innovations. This acquisition aimed to blend the brand’s legacy with modern advancements, ensuring the brand continued to deliver excellence in yacht design and performance.
Bertram Yachts: Complete Timeline at a Glance
The following timeline summarizes all major milestones in Bertram’s 65-year history — from Miami founding to current Gavio Group ownership.
|
Year |
Milestone |
Details |
| 1947 | Brokerage Founded | Richard Bertram opens yacht brokerage near Miami |
| 1960 | Bertram Yachts Born | First Bertram 31 Moppie built using C. Raymond Hunt’s deep-V design |
| 1962–64 | Model Expansion | 25ft, 38ft, and 20ft inboard/outboard models launched |
| 1963 | Memorial Race Win | Bertram wins race honoring late partner Sam Griffith |
| 1968 | Whittaker Acquisition | Whittaker Corporation buys Bertram from Nautec |
| 1970s–80s | Growth Era | Steady expansion; Bertram becomes a dominant luxury yacht brand |
| 1993 | Company Shutdown | Economic downturn forces Bertram to close operations |
| 1998 | Ferretti Revival | Italian Ferretti Group acquires and relaunches Bertram |
| 2000 | Richard Bertram Dies | Founder passes away; legacy endures through the brand |
| 2015 | Gavio Group Takes Over | Italian Gavio Group acquires all Bertram assets |
| 2018 | Bertram 61 Launched | New flagship Bertram 61 Convertible debuts at Newport Boat Show |
| 2026 | Active & Thriving | Bertram yachts remain a top choice in the Miami luxury market |
Legacy and Influence
Bertram’s Impact on Yacht Design
Bertram Yachts has had a profound impact on yacht design over the decades. The brand is renowned for its emphasis on performance, durability, and innovation. The introduction of the Bertram 31 Moppie in the 1960s, for instance, revolutionized sportfishing yachts with its superior hull design and handling characteristics. Bertram’s commitment to engineering excellence set new benchmarks in the industry, influencing the design of sportfishing and luxury yachts worldwide. The company’s focus on creating vessels that excel both in competition and leisure has left a lasting mark on yacht design.
Influence on Other Yacht Manufacturers
Bertram Yachts’ pioneering designs and competitive successes have inspired many other yacht manufacturers. The company’s innovations in hull design, engineering, and performance have been emulated by other brands seeking to replicate Bertram’s success. The emphasis on high-performance and reliable construction established by the brand became a benchmark for others in the industry. As a result, many yacht manufacturers have adopted Bertram’s design principles, leading to a broader evolution in yacht design standards.
Contributions to Yacht Design Technology
Bertram Yachts has made significant contributions to yacht design technology. The brand’s use of advanced materials, innovative hull designs, and cutting-edge engineering techniques has driven technological advancements in the industry. Bertram’s commitment to integrating new technologies into their vessels has set a precedent for other manufacturers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. The incorporation of these technologies has enhanced performance and improved the overall experience for yacht owners and enthusiasts.
Bertram’s Community and Culture
The Bertram Owner’s Community
The Bertram brand has cultivated a strong and dedicated community of owners and enthusiasts. The owners often share a deep appreciation for Bertram’s history and craftsmanship. This community is united by a common passion for high-performance yachts and a shared admiration for the Bertram legacy. The camaraderie among Bertram owners extends beyond the yachts themselves, creating a network of individuals who celebrate their shared experiences on the water.
Events, Clubs, and Gatherings Related to Bertram
Bertram Yachts fosters a vibrant culture through various events, clubs, and gatherings. These include yacht shows, regattas, and owner’s club meetings, where enthusiasts come together to showcase their vessels and celebrate the Bertram legacy. These events provide opportunities for Bertram owners to connect, share stories, and participate in the broader yachting community. The brand’s events and clubs help maintain the strong sense of tradition and community that has been a hallmark of the company since its inception.
The Present Scenario of Bertram Yachts
Despite the ups and downs and the acquisition changes, Bertram continues to be a popular yacht brand. In 2018, Bertram Yachts under the ownership of the Gavio Group introduced a new model, Bertram Yacht 61 Convertible at the Newport International Boat Show on September 13, 2018.
Buying a Bertram Yacht in Miami: What You Need to Know in 2026
Miami is the single best market in the United States for buying a used or new Bertram yacht. The combination of year-round boating weather, proximity to the Bahamas, and Miami’s deep-rooted sportfishing culture means Bertrams are constantly in use and in demand here. The Gulf Stream runs just 6-7 miles off Miami’s coast, making offshore fishing trips feasible on short notice — exactly the conditions that showcase a Bertram’s deep-V hull at its best.
What Models Are Available in the Miami Bertram Market?
The Miami used Bertram market typically features models ranging from 28 to 60+ feet. The most commonly listed Bertrams in South Florida include:
- Bertram 28: Entry-level classic, ideal for bay fishing and short offshore runs
- Bertram 31: The legendary original — well-maintained examples remain highly sought after as collector boats
- Bertram 35/36: Popular mid-range sportfisher for overnight Bahamas trips
- Bertram 46: A premium choice for serious offshore anglers; strong resale value in Miami
- Bertram 54/60/61: Top-of-market convertibles for full-time sportfishing or luxury cruising
Is a Bertram Yacht a Good Investment?
Yes — Bertram yachts historically hold their value better than many comparable sportfishing brands in the Miami market. Three factors drive this: the brand’s global recognition and loyal owner community, the hull performance that experienced boaters specifically seek out, and the relatively limited supply of well-maintained examples. According to YATCO market data, well-kept Bertram sportfishers in the 40-60 foot range have seen strong demand in South Florida’s post-pandemic boat market. However, as with any yacht, condition, engine hours, and maintenance records are the primary value drivers — a poorly maintained Bertram is not automatically a good deal simply because of the name.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bertram Yachts
Where was Bertram Yachts founded?
Bertram Yachts was founded in Miami, Florida in 1960 by Richard Bertram. The company’s Miami roots are a core part of its identity — the brand was built around offshore conditions typical of South Florida, including the Gulf Stream and Bahamas crossings that test any hull design to its limits.
Who owns Bertram Yachts in 2026?
As of 2026, Bertram Yachts is owned by the Italian Gavio Group, which acquired all Bertram assets in 2015. Under Gavio Group ownership, Bertram has launched new models including the Bertram 61 Convertible, which debuted at the Newport International Boat Show in September 2018.
What is the Bertram 31 Moppie?
The Bertram 31 Moppie is the first and most iconic boat produced by Bertram Yachts, launched in 1960. It was designed using C. Raymond Hunt’s deep-V hull technology and named after Richard Bertram’s wife’s nickname. The Bertram 31 is widely credited with introducing the deep-V hull to mass-market powerboat production and revolutionizing offshore sportfishing boat design.
Are Bertram yachts good for offshore fishing in Miami?
Yes — Bertram yachts are exceptionally well-suited for offshore fishing in Miami. The deep-V hull design handles the steep, short-period chop common in South Florida waters and the Gulf Stream far better than flat or shallow-V hulls. Miami-based captains and anglers consistently rank Bertrams among the top choices for Bahamas crossings and offshore tournament fishing.
Where can I find Bertram yachts for sale in Miami?
Miami International Yacht Sales maintains an active inventory of Bertram yachts for sale in Miami, Florida. Our expert yacht brokers specialize in Bertram models ranging from classic 31-foot sportfishers to modern 60+ foot convertibles. Call us at +1-305-857-8939 or visit miamiinternationalyachtsales.com to view current listings and book an appointment.
How does the Bertram deep-V hull compare to other hull designs?
The Bertram deep-V hull features a consistent high deadrise angle from bow to stern, which allows the hull to cut through waves rather than slamming over them. Compared to modified-V or flat-bottom hulls, the deep-V delivers a smoother offshore ride at the cost of slightly lower fuel efficiency and reduced stability at rest. For serious offshore anglers running in rough water, the ride quality advantage of the deep-V is generally considered worth the trade-off.
Conclusion: The Bertram Legacy Lives On in Miami
Bertram Yachts is more than a boat manufacturer — it is a 65-year story of innovation, racing heritage, and the kind of offshore performance that Miami’s waters demand. From Richard Bertram’s founding vision in 1960 to the current Gavio Group lineup, the brand has survived economic downturns, multiple ownership changes, and an evolving luxury market while retaining one constant: the deep-V offshore hull that changed how the world builds powerboats.
For buyers in the Miami market, a Bertram is not just a purchase — it is entry into a community of passionate offshore boaters who understand what performance in open water really means. Whether you are looking for a classic Bertram 31 as a collector piece or a modern Bertram 61 Convertible as your primary sportfisher, the brand’s engineering pedigree and resale strength make it one of the smartest choices in South Florida.
At Miami International Yacht Sales, we have been connecting Miami buyers with Bertram yachts for decades. Our expert yacht brokers know this brand inside and out — from hull surveys to tournament-ready rigging. Call us at +1-305-857-8939 to book an appointment today or visit miamiinternationalyachtsales.com to view our current Bertram inventory.
Robert Lama is the founder and principal broker of Miami International Yacht Sales, an IYBA-member luxury yacht brokerage based in South Florida. With over 13 years of experience in 100’–250′ class superyacht transactions, Robert has facilitated multi-million dollar acquisitions and new builds with leading shipyards in Italy and the Netherlands. His background in Commercial Real Estate in New York gives him a unique edge in complex yacht deal structuring and negotiation.