Our Heritage
Sweden boasts a rich seafaring heritage spanning 1,000 years, from Viking long boats to the modern day J Craft. This rich history has seen mighty navies, merchant armadas and a revolution in naval architecture with the publication of Architectura Navalis Mercatoria in 1768 by Fredrik Henrik af Chapman (1721-1808) who was a naval architect and a vice-admiral in the Swedish navy.
Our Identity
Truly Swedish
Sweden is recognised the world over as a centre for leading-edge design – often highly innovative with a unique take on everyday objects. As well as stylish design, Sweden boasts a reputation for cutting edge technology; quality, and durability, and the many internationally recognised Swedish brands are testament to this.
J Craft exists amongst these brands, a major force in Sweden’s modern economy and, naturally, partner to many other major Swedish companies such as Volvo Penta. Volvo Penta developed the state of the art IPS drive system in conjunction with J Craft, both brands working together to refine the system and turn it into the revolutionary technology that it is today.
Our Home
The island of Gotland
For centuries, Gotland’s harsh climate and unique geography has driven local craftsmen to construct robust, manoeuvrable boats that can withstand the punishing elements of the far north. The island of Gotland in the middle of the Baltic Sea has for generations been the home and the heart of Swedish boat building. It is here, on Gotland, that J Craft continues to build boats in this same tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin story of J Craft?
Founded in 1999 after a commission for Sweden’s King Carl XVI Gustaf, the yard set out to revive mid‑century glamour using a mix of ancient Viking and modern Swedish engineering, technology and shipbuilding techniques.
How has the J Craft brand evolved over time?
By integrating innovations such as Volvo Penta IPS and Seakeeper gyros while retaining hand‑varnished mahogany, analog gauges and classic lines.
What historical influences shape J Craft’s design?
Viking seafaring resilience, Swedish engineering and shipbuilding expertise combined with the cinematic elegance of 1950s‑60s Italian runabouts.
Where does J Craft build its boats today?
Still on Sweden’s Baltic Sea island of Gotland, continuing a thousand‑year Swedish boat‑building tradition.
Why is heritage important to J Craft’s identity?
It provides continuity - linking today’s technology with centuries of Scandinavian craft and respect for the sea.
Are any early J Craft models still in service today?
Yes – including J Craft’s inaugural M/Y “Polaris”, delivered to the King of Sweden in 1999 and still regularly used.
How does J Craft honor its heritage in each new build?
By combining vintage detailing - hand‑finished teak, rose‑polished fittings - with modern performance, comfort and safety systems.