Cheoy Lee Shipyard: Legacy to Future

Cheoy Lee Shipyards, known today for its custom superyachts and the CL Yachts fiberglass series, has a history that spans more than 150 years.

Founded in the 1870s, this family-operated business is now led by the fourth and fifth generations of boatbuilders. The company began in commercial shipbuilding and has since earned a reputation for innovation and craftsmanship across multiple disciplines.

In the 1960s, Cheoy Lee became an early adopter of glass-reinforced plastic (fiberglass), setting the foundation for its eventual move into the recreational yacht market.

The shipyard has a forward-thinking philosophy, continually advancing its use of technology and refining its manufacturing techniques. High-tech tools used in production include CNC water jets, laser and plasma cutters and five-axis milling machines—all contributing to precision and efficiency. One innovation it pioneered that is de rigueur today is the use of vacuum-bagging technology, first researched in the 1970s. This process improves resin-to-glass ratios, reduces vessel weight and lowers emissions.

Cheoy Lee Yachts focuses on fully custom builds and superyachts, while its sister brand, CL Yachts, specializes in series-built fiberglass models. The CLX series, in particular, is recognized for its modern design sensibility. 

On the large-yacht side, Cheoy Lee recently introduced the 127 Discovery, an explorer yacht with a steel hull and a reported 4,000-nautical-mile range at 10.5 knots. According to the builder, the 127’s displacement hull has a “sharp entry and spray chine to ensure comfort and safe passage in heavy sea conditions.” Luxe touches include a main-deck master suite, four guest staterooms, a beach club and a sundeck with a hot tub, bar and more.

“The 127 Discovery draws on everything we know about building seaworthy global cruisers and hardy, reliable commercial vessels and workboats, and combines it all into an elegant, contemporary ocean-going yacht that delivers luxurious world cruising without compromise on facilities or service,” says Martin Lo, director of both Cheoy Lee and CL Yachts, and a fourth-generation builder.

Recent CL Yachts models include the CLX96 and CLX99, developed in collaboration with Milan-based designer Jozeph Forakis. These yachts feature plumb bows, angular lines and reverse windscreens, referencing the builder’s commercial shipbuilding heritage while emphasizing a sleek aesthetic.

CL Yachts also offers two additional model lines: CLA and CLB. These owner-operator yachts retain the stout construction of larger models while offering semicustom elements. The CLB65— the entry point to the four-model CLB lineup stretching to 88 feet LOA— is also available in a recently released SUV version without a flybridge.

“The CLB65 SUV is the sportiest and most compact yacht to date in the CL Yachts series, and it builds not only on the success of our CLB65, but also on five generations of boatbuilding prowess to deliver performance, maneuverability, and comfort in equal measure,” says Lo.

The CL Yachts “A” lineup currently includes a 76-foot model.

Cheoy Lee and CL Yachts have accomplished what many find difficult: building a broad range of vessels for varied use cases without compromising on quality or luxury. Every yacht is built to class standards with meticulous attention to detail.

Looking ahead, Cheoy Lee continues to evolve—not just by developing new models, but also by adopting new production methods. The builder plans to emphasize eco-conscious solutions, including hybrid and alternative propulsion systems, as well as using artificial intelligence and human-robotic manufacturing to improve construction quality and efficiency.

If past performance is any indication, Cheoy Lee seems well-positioned for another 150 years of innovation and success.

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