Warwick Hood

Warwick Hood was a pioneering Australian naval architect renowned for his versatile designs spanning elite international racing yachts and accessible recreational boats. Best known internationally for designing Dame Pattie, Australia's 1967 America's Cup challenger in the 12-Meter class, Hood's work bridged grand-scale competitions and family-friendly cruisers. His Hood 20 and Hood 23 models became Australian icons, with hundreds still sailing today, teaching generations the joys of yachting. Over a 50-year career, he emphasized practical innovation, fair lines, and seaworthiness, earning the Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 1995 for services to the maritime industry. Hood's legacy endures in active racing classes and his influence on Australian yacht design.