Concept Marine Group is proud to announce the launch of our new high-speed RIB range, the “Holdfast,” named in honour of the late Christian Forrester, a renowned boatbuilder whose expertise and mentorship left a lasting mark on the marine industry.
Christian ‘Holdfast’ was a celebrated boatbuilder, recognised globally for his work on race boats and yachts. His expertise spanned continents, with a career that shaped the lives of many in the industry. Both Kevin Viles, CEO of Concept Marine Group, and Leigh Williams, COO of Concept Marine Group, had the privilege of working alongside Christian for many years. As their mentor, Christian’s influence inspired excellence and dedication. In addition to his skills as a boatbuilder, Christian was also a world-class tattoo artist, with a studio based in Cornwall. Christian was diagnosed with cancer at the start of the global lockdown. He fought valiantly against the disease, displaying the same resilience he was known for throughout his life.
In tribute to Christian’s legacy, Concept Marine Group is launching the new Holdfast RIB range, a fitting homage to a man who personified strength and determination. The name “Holdfast” is deeply rooted in maritime tradition. Inspired by the story of an old sailor with “HOLD FAST” tattooed across his knuckles, the tattoo served as a silent reminder to grip tightly onto the lines and rigging amidst storms and battles at sea. It was a symbol of courage and perseverance, values that Christian embodied throughout his life.
“As a very small child, Christian displayed a remarkable talent for problem-solving. In his teenage years, he was building jigs to create the skateboards and longbows that ignited his passions. Leaving school at 16, Christian began his career with Westerly Yachts in Penryn before traveling the world, including many years working on Wally yachts in Italy. Our family’s deep connection to yachting in Cornwall makes us incredibly proud of Christian’s achievements. He would have never imagined the high regard in which he is held in the industry, and as his parents, we are truly honoured to see him recognised in this way.”
Helen and Tim Forrester
“Christian was not only a mentor but a good friend, someone who taught us to aspire to be the best at whatever you do. The Holdfast RIB range is our way of honouring his memory and ensuring his legacy lives on in these vessels.”
Kevin Viles, CEO, Concept Marine Group
The Holdfast RIB range offers the most extensive range of customisation options available. Whether you need a highly capable patrol vessel or a versatile rescue craft, the Holdfast can be tailored to meet a wide array of mission requirements. Designed to handle extreme sea conditions, this innovative platform boasts unrivalled adaptability.
The Holdfast’s modular in-deck track system allows for quick integration of various modules, making it ideal for transporting personnel or equipment. Its spacious deck provides ample room for gear, while the lightweight, composite-infused construction delivers superior strength-to-weight performance, using the latest technologies and materials. Entirely built in the UK at Concept Marine Group’s dedicated south coast facility, the Holdfast RIB is the pinnacle of British engineering.
Designed as a multi-use Platform, the Holdfast range is available in several configurations, including a cabin version. with plans to include landing-ramp-style bow on the larger models it is perfect for fast-attack missions, and with increased crew capacity, the vessel excels at personnel transport as well. Or if it’s a Superyacht tender you require, the modular component system makes it easy for one day using the Holdfast as a transport for high end clientele, and the next day a perfect solution for transporting provisions or other items to and from shore.
The Holdfast RIB range is more than just a boat; it is a tribute to Christian Holdfast’s enduring spirit and craft. His legacy will continue to sail the seas, guiding those who, like him, are bold enough to hold fast, no matter the storm.
Concept Marine Group will be unveiling the Holdfast range at the Southampton Boat Show, running from September 13th to 22nd, 2024, at Stand F080. After successful sea trials, the first vessel of this new model will be stationed at the marina to transport VIP guests to Concept Yachts Shipyard for a factory tour.
About Concept Marine Group
Concept Marine Group is a dynamic and leading UK-based boat manufacturer, specialising in the design and production of high-performance vessels. Driven by determination and a disruptive approach to innovation and quality, Concept Marine Group continues to push the boundaries of maritime engineering, setting new standards in the industry.
