Featuring stunning watercolours by renowned marine artist Alastair Houston, this new exhibition explores the remarkable achievements of the Fife family whose Ayrshire boatyard became one of the most respected yacht-building businesses in the world.

From 1803 to 1944, the ‘Wizards of Fairlie’, built a business which attracted European aristocrats, wealthy industrialists and sailing enthusiasts as far afield as Australia.

Born in Fairlie and introduced to sailing as a child, Alastair worked on yachts in the Mediterranean in the1980s. His lifelong fascination with the Fife legacy was sparked on seeing a beautifully crafted wooden yacht standing out amongst modern boats and learning that it had been built in his hometown. He has painted Fife yachts around the international sailing circuit since then.

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.