The yachting world mourns the loss of Ivor Jones, co-founder of Delta Marine and a true pioneer of American yachtbuilding.
Known for his boundless energy, hands-on leadership, and deep-rooted passion for boats, Ivor passed away leaving behind a legacy that shaped not only a shipyard, but an industry.
Ivor’s journey began with boat racing, where his competitive spirit and mechanical intuition laid the foundation for a lifelong dedication to marine craftsmanship. In 1967, alongside his brother Jack, he founded Delta Marine – driven by a bold vision and an unrelenting work ethic. From the earliest days, Ivor was not one to lead from the sidelines. He worked shoulder to shoulder with his team, setting the tone for a culture defined by integrity, excellence, and hard work.
From Alaskan workboats to superyachts
Under Ivor’s leadership, Delta evolved from a commercial shipbuilder to one of the most respected names in custom superyachts. In its early years, the company delivered more than 600 commercial vessels, including the legendary Delta 58 – a standard-setting model in Alaska’s fishing fleet. His decision to invest in facilities, talent, and innovation laid the groundwork for Delta’s transformation into a world-class yachtbuilder.
Today, Delta Marine operates on 25 acres along the Duwamish River in Seattle, with over 300,000 square feet of manufacturing space – an enduring testament to Ivor’s vision.
A legacy that lives on
Throughout his life, Ivor remained devoted not only to quality craftsmanship, but also to the people around him. Delta’s continued family ownership reflects the values he instilled: trust, responsibility, and pride in one’s work. As Michelle Jones, Vice President of Delta Marine, notes: “Ivor led with heart, grit, and a deep sense of responsibility to his craft, his team, and his family. The culture he created at Delta is rooted in integrity, care, and relentless dedication. We are committed to honoring that legacy in everything we do.”
