From Fairlie to the World: The Fife Design Story

With paintings by Alistair Houston

Scottish Maritime Museum (Denny Tank) , Castle Street, Dumbarton  

With paintings by Alistair Houston

Featuring stunning watercolours by renowned marine artist Alastair Houston, this new exhibition celebrates the legendary yacht-building Fife family of Fairlie on the Clyde whose boatyard became one of the most respected yacht-building businesses in the world.

From 1803 to 1944, three generations of the Fife dynasty built a business which attracted European aristocrats, wealthy industrialists and sailing enthusiasts as far afield as Australia.

Alastair’s art is displayed alongside artefacts from the Museum’s national maritime heritage collection. Visitors can view original tools, models and plans that reveal how skilled craftspeople at the yard transformed Scottish timber into some of the world’s most admired yachts. Also on show are historic photographs, launch-day postcards and business records offering an insight into the yard’s success.

Now until 22 January 2027

10am – 4pm Tuesday to Saturday

Scottish Maritime Museum (Denny Tank)
Castle Street, Dumbarton