Few names in the trawler and motor cruiser world carry the same enduring charm as Island Gypsy. Known for their classic lines, sturdy construction, and practical cruising layouts, Island Gypsy yachts have earned loyal followings around the world – particularly among those who value craftsmanship over flash. But the story behind these boats is just as fascinating as the vessels themselves.
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The Origins: Kong & Halvorsen Marine
The Island Gypsy line was born from a partnership between two legends of boatbuilding: Lars Halvorsen, of the renowned Australian Halvorsen family, and Joseph Kong, a talented builder who had previously served as Production Manager for Grand Banks. In 1975, the two men joined forces to form the Kong & Halvorsen Marine & Engineering Company in Hong Kong. Their goal was simple but ambitious: to create a line of high-quality, affordable motor yachts for long-range cruising.
The early Island Gypsy models were instantly recognizable, blending traditional trawler styling with the fine joinery and seaworthiness that the Halvorsen name had come to represent.
Where Does The Name “Island Gypsy” Come From?
“I decided to start with a 30 foot design, and while I was drawing it out of nowhere came the name “ISLAND GYPSY”. I thought this was perfect as it conjured up thoughts of cruising the Great Barrier Reef and other exotic lands with girls in Hula skirts…
Harvey Halvorsen
After settling on the name I contacted the dealers for an opinion, and all of them were delighted with the name except our dealer in Newport Beach California, who was also a very good friend of mine. He was worried that customers may link the name to the Romany Gypsy’s of Europe, who were not particularly honest.
I wouldn’t budge on the name, so “ISLAND GYPSY” it was.”
Production in Hong Kong and Mainland China
From 1975 through the late 1980s, most Kong & Halvorsen boats were built in Hong Kong, where skilled craftsmen produced hundreds of Island Gypsy trawlers and motor cruisers for export around the world.
In 1990, production shifted to new facilities in the Shekou Industrial Zone, near Canton (now Guangzhou) in mainland China, as part of the brand’s expansion and modernization efforts.
By 1992, the “Kong & Halvorsen” name was officially retired, and the company continued under the name Halvorsen Marine — still family-led and still committed to producing the same proven Island Gypsy designs.
The Island Gypsy Legacy
Over the years, more than 900 Island Gypsy yachts were built under the Kong & Halvorsen and Halvorsen Marine banners. These boats were marketed globally with strong followings in Australia, the United States, and Europe for their reliable performance, economical operation, and timeless aesthetic.
The company’s approach reflected a rare balance – delivering a yacht that was both seaworthy and affordable.
Even after the original joint venture concluded, the Halvorsen family continued to produce Island Gypsy models through Halvorsen Marine Ltd., building hundreds more through approved yards in China under the leadership of Harvey and Mark Halvorsen.
The Iconic Island Gypsy 32
Among all the models, the Island Gypsy 32 stands out as particularly popular. Built by Jet Tern Marine in China, the 32 became a hallmark of the brand known for its durability, comfortable accommodations, and efficient single-diesel cruising. Owners appreciated its handcrafted interiors and practical layouts, making the Island Gypsy 32 one of the most successful small trawlers ever produced. To this day, it remains a sought-after classic on the used market.=
The Versatile Island Gypsy 44 Motor Cruiser
Sitting comfortably between the compact 32 and the flagship 57, the Island Gypsy 44 Motor Cruiser became one of the most versatile and well-balanced models in the lineup. Designed for extended cruising without sacrificing ease of handling, the 44 offered generous interior volume, wide side decks, and the same sturdy hull construction that defined the brand. Many were configured with twin Lehman or Cummins diesels, providing dependable performance and efficient cruise speeds in the 8–12 knot range. With a layout that favored livability and a hull that inspired confidence offshore, the Island Gypsy 44 earned a reputation as a “sweet spot” trawler … large enough for long passages, yet manageable for a cruising couple.
The Flagship: Island Gypsy 57
At the other end of the lineup stood the Island Gypsy 57, a true flagship for the brand and a showcase of what Kong & Halvorsen could achieve at scale. Designed for serious coastal and offshore cruising, the 57 blended the rugged seaworthiness of a traditional trawler with the luxury and volume of a motoryacht. Her semi-displacement hull, twin-diesel power, and long-range efficiency made her equally capable on bluewater passages or as a comfortable liveaboard. Like all Island Gypsys, the 57 emphasized hand-finished joinery and thoughtful engineering, offering a level of craftsmanship that rivaled much more expensive yachts of the era. Today, well-maintained examples of the Island Gypsy 57 remain highly sought after for their proven performance and timeless lines.
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Continuing the Tradition
Today, the Island Gypsy name lives on, with modern builds that honor the brand’s original philosophy: traditional design, honest craftsmanship, and seaworthy performance. New generations of Island Gypsy yachts continue to be produced by IG Yachts in collaboration with the Halvorsen family, bridging a remarkable 50-year legacy of design and innovation.
From its origins in Hong Kong shipyards to its lasting impact on marinas across the world, Island Gypsy stands as a testament to what happens when craftsmanship meets passion. Whether aboard a classic 32 or a modern 50+ footer, owners continue to enjoy what the Halvorsens and Kong envisioned nearly half a century ago – a yacht built to cruise comfortably, safely, and beautifully.