022 - The Naval Architect Behind The Iconic Deep V Hull: Winn Willard of Ray Hunt Design

2026-05-01

Download

In Episode 22 of the Rising Tidecast, Winn Willard, president of Ray Hunt Design, shares stories from his 50-year journey in the world of naval architecture. From his childhood on the water to working alongside the legendary Ray Hunt, starting Hunt yachts, and carrying on the Ray Hunt Design legacy, Winn provides a deep look into the evolution of boat design and the industry that has defined his life. He reflects on the transition from the tedious, manual calculations of early ship design for the Navy to the creative freedom he found at Hunt Associates. He talks about the impact of the Deep ...

He reflects on the transition from the tedious, manual calculations of early ship design for the Navy to the creative freedom he found at Hunt Associates. He talks about the impact of the Deep V hull, explaining how Ray Hunt's intuitive approach changed power boating forever by allowing vessels to maintain high speeds in rough water. Throughout the episode, Winn's enduring passion for the craft of creating new things shines through, offering invaluable insights for boating enthusiasts and aspiring designers alike.

Connect With Steve Govel

Connect with Winn Willard

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook

Takeaways

Repetitive technical work can be the catalyst for seeking a more creative and personally fulfilling career.
Practical, hands-on experience in boatyards and running launches is essential for a well-rounded designer.
The Deep V hull revolutionized the industry by allowing boats to go fast in rough conditions without losing stability.
Successful marine design often relies as much on sharp intuition and practical experience as it does on formal engineering
Innovative designers must be uninhibited and willing to apply successful concepts across different types of vessels.
Seeing a tangible creation move from the drawing board to the water remains a primary source of career satisfaction.
The most impactful designs are those that eventually become the standard for the entire marine industry.
A genuine passion for the process of creation is the key to maintaining joy in a career for over fifty years.

Chapters

00:00 The Journey Begins: Winn Willard's Early Influences

02:47 From Naval Architecture to Design: A Career Path

05:35 The Evolution of the Deep V Hull: A Game Changer

08:30 Ray Hunt: The Creative Genius Behind the Designs

11:28 Innovative Designs: The Intersection of Function and Creativity

14:09 The Day-to-Day of a Boat Designer: Challenges and Rewards

17:06 Client Relationships: The Heart of Boat Design

20:05 Working with Grady White: A Longstanding Partnership

21:14 The Design Spiral and Client Collaboration

22:40 Aesthetics and Trends in Boat Design

24:50 The Future of Electric Boats