Bringing Blue Jacket Back to Life
Blue Jacket Yachts: The Return of a Modern Performance Cruiser
Blue Jacket Yachts was originally conceived as a collaboration between two respected leaders in yacht design and offshore cruising. The Blue Jacket 40 was developed by naval architect Bob Johnson of Island Packet Yachts and Tim Jackett of Jackett Yacht Design, with a clear goal: to create a true performance cruising sailboat that balanced speed, offshore capability and refined comfort.
The result was a modern 40-foot performance cruiser that quickly earned industry recognition. In 2014, Cruising World named the Blue Jacket 40 “Boat of the Year” and Best Mid-Sized Cruiser — validating its intelligent design, sailing performance and build quality. Fourteen hulls were built between 2013 and 2016, and today these boats continue to cruise extensively under proud second owners, demonstrating durability, resale strength and timeless appeal.
A Strategic Relaunch Under Niche Watercraft
Years later, veteran yacht broker and marine industry leader Mike Mullenberg saw renewed demand for a premium semi-custom performance cruiser — a sailboat capable of true offshore passagemaking without sacrificing speed or elegance. Buyers were searching for modern performance sailboats with craftsmanship, pedigree and proven hull design, yet few options met that standard.
Recognizing that the Blue Jacket 40 already embodied that vision, Mullenberg approached the brand’s original collaborators to explore a relaunch. Rather than starting from scratch, the opportunity emerged to acquire the Blue Jacket Yachts brand and reintroduce it with thoughtful refinements.
In 2022, under the umbrella of Niche Watercraft, Blue Jacket Yachts was officially acquired and positioned as a cornerstone of Niche’s premium sailboat portfolio.
Proven Design. Modern Evolution.
The reintroduction of Blue Jacket Yachts reflects Niche Watercraft’s broader mission: revitalizing iconic yacht brands with careful stewardship, modern engineering, and elevated owner experience.
The new generation of Blue Jacket sailboats retains the award-winning hull and deck design that defined the original 40-footer known for balanced helm feel, offshore stability and efficient performance in a wide range of conditions. Updated interiors, refined systems and modern materials bring the design forward while preserving its core DNA as a true luxury performance cruiser.
Today, Blue Jacket Yachts stands as a flagship example of Niche Watercraft’s renaissance approach to premium yacht building — combining proven naval architecture, advanced composites and semi-custom craftsmanship for discerning sailors seeking offshore capability without compromise.
For owners who value heritage, performance and build integrity, Blue Jacket is once again ready to lead the next evolution in American performance cruising sailboats.