Uniflite, originally known as United Boat Builders, was established in 1957 in Bellingham, Washington, United States, by Art Nordtvedt and several colleagues experienced in shipbuilding. The company pioneered the use of fire-retardant resins in pleasure boat construction, becoming the only boat builder to use this material exclusively for a period—an innovation that set their vessels apart in safety. Early production centered on all-fiberglass outboard and inboard/outboard boats, with the first model being a 17' runabout. Uniflite expanded its range during the 1960s and '70s to include popular express cruisers and yachts in the 25’, 31’, and 34’ sizes. The company is well regarded for robust, seaworthy motor yachts and cruisers, along with commercial fishing boats and, for a time, sailing yachts such as the Annapolis 44 and the highly regarded Valiant line (Valiant 32, 37, 40, 47). Uniflite secured major contracts with the U.S. Navy, most notably for producing over 750 Patrol Boat, River (PBR) craft for the Vietnam War—a significant achievement that cemented its industrial reputation and production scale. In 1977, Uniflite acquired molds from Pacemaker Boat Co. and opened a second facility in Swansboro, North Carolina. Despite initial acclaim, the company suffered from severe hull blistering issues related to its innovative resins, which ultimately impacted its reputation. In 1984, Uniflite was acquired by Chris-Craft, who continued producing select models until 1989. Today, Uniflite is defunct as a stand-alone brand, but it remains respected for its build quality, historical significance in American yachting, and pioneering efforts in materials technology.

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