Alan F. Hill

Alan F. Hill was a pioneering English yacht designer at the forefront of fiberglass sailboat development in the UK. His career began with a seven-year apprenticeship at Thornycroft's boatyard starting in 1948, later working with renowned designer Robert Clark. Hill became principal designer for Marine Construction Ltd. (Marcon), creating over 120 boats including the famous Trident 24, his breakthrough design that launched his career. Other notable designs include the Sabre 27, Tomahawk 25, Javelin 30, and Striker 22. His partnership with Eric White at Marcon was instrumental in developing practical, seaworthy cruising yachts. Hill resisted designing racers for cruising, believing 'a cruising yacht should not emulate a racing boat.' Many of his designs remain sailing over 50 years later, testament to their enduring quality and seaworthiness. Hill passed away in late 2018 at his home in Essex.