Sailing enthusiasts will remember the original Columbia Yachts, born in the late 50’s. Guided by Richard “Dick” Valdes, Columbia Yachts put over 30,000 sailboats in the water through its peak in the late sixties and early seventies. The company’s sailboats came to be known for classic designs (penned by such famed designers as Sparkman & Stephens, Bill Tripp and Alan Payne), comfortable features, hardwearing construction and good value.