Cruisers Yachts: The Top Wisconsin Boat Manufacturer
Cruisers Yachts is a Wisconsin-based boat manufacturer that has been producing luxury yachts for over 60 years. The company was founded in 1953 in Oconto, Wisconsin, and has since built a reputation for producing high-quality, American-made boats that are both innovative and seaworthy. With a deep and knowledgeable workforce, Cruisers Yachts has been able to keep its customers safe and happy as they chase adventures worldwide.
The history and heritage of Cruisers Yachts date back to 1904 when Peter and Chris Thompson co-founded the Thompson Bros Boat Manufacturer Company in Peshtigo, WI. This was the start of a family boat-building business that led to the second generation of Thompson's starting Cruisers, Inc. in 1953. Since then, the company has grown to become a leading manufacturer of luxury yachts that are known for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship.
Cruisers Yachts has a wide range of yachts in its product portfolio, ranging from 33' to 60' feet. The company's yachts are handcrafted and built to the highest standards, with a focus on innovation, seaworthiness, and luxury. With its recent acquisition by MarineMax, Cruisers Yachts is poised for even greater growth and success in the years to come.
Key Takeaways
- Cruisers Yachts is a Wisconsin-based boat manufacturer that has been producing luxury yachts for over 60 years.
- The company has a wide range of yachts in its product portfolio, ranging from 33' to 60' feet.
- With its recent acquisition by MarineMax, Cruisers Yachts is poised for even greater growth and success in the years to come.
History and Heritage
Cruisers Yachts has a rich history and heritage that dates back to 1904 when Peter and Chris Thompson co-founded the Thompson Bros Boat Manufacturer Company in Peshtigo, WI. The Thompson family's boat-building business continued to grow, and in 1953, the second generation of Thompsons started Cruisers, Inc. in Oconto, Wisconsin. The first shipment of boats left the Oconto factory on November 18, 1953, and the company has been building boats ever since.
Cruisers Yachts has come a long way since its inception. In 1965, K.C. Stock, a former Mirro Aluminum Company executive, purchased the company and helped it grow into one of the premier boat manufacturers in the world. Under Stock's leadership, the company introduced several innovative designs, including the first fiberglass cabin cruiser in 1968.
Today, Cruisers Yachts is owned by KCS International, Inc. and continues to be headquartered in Oconto, Wisconsin. The company builds boats ranging from 30 feet to 58 feet, and has a reputation for quality, craftsmanship, and innovation.
Cruisers Yachts' heritage and commitment to quality have earned it several accolades over the years. In 2017, the company was named the Marine Industry's Manufacturer of the Year by the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas. The award recognizes manufacturers that demonstrate a commitment to customer satisfaction, dealer support, and product innovation.
In conclusion, Cruisers Yachts has a long and storied history that is rooted in Wisconsin's boat-building heritage. From its humble beginnings in 1953 to its status as one of the premier boat manufacturers in the world, Cruisers Yachts has remained committed to quality, craftsmanship, and innovation.
Location and Facilities
Oconto Facility
Cruisers Yachts is headquartered in Oconto, Wisconsin, a small city located on the west shore of Green Bay. The company's main production facility is situated on a 60-acre property in Oconto, where they manufacture their luxury yachts. The facility features state-of-the-art equipment and technology, allowing them to produce some of the finest boats in the industry.
The Oconto facility also includes a research and development department that is responsible for designing new models and improving existing ones. The company prides itself on its commitment to innovation and quality, and this is evident in the design and craftsmanship of their boats.
Pulaski Facility
In 2021, due to high demand, Cruisers Yachts announced the expansion of their production capacity by purchasing a 216,000 square foot, purpose-built boat manufacturing plant in Pulaski, WI. The facility is located on about 15 acres of land and includes enclosed, in-water testing, research, and development tank, which will help accelerate growth for the Cruisers brand.
The Pulaski facility was previously the site of Carver and Marquis yachts' production, and the acquisition of the facility has allowed Cruisers Yachts to more than double its capacity over time. The new site will also provide additional job opportunities for people in the area.
Overall, Cruisers Yachts has made significant investments in its manufacturing facilities, allowing them to produce high-quality boats that are in high demand. The company's commitment to excellence is evident in the design and craftsmanship of their boats, and their facilities in Oconto and Pulaski are a testament to their dedication to innovation and quality.
Product Portfolio
Cruisers Yachts is a Wisconsin-based boat manufacturer that has built a reputation for quality and innovation. The company offers a range of boats that are designed to meet the needs of both experienced and novice boaters. In this section, we will take a closer look at two of the company's most popular product lines: the Cantius Series and the American Built Yacht.
Cantius Series
The Cantius Series is a line of luxury motor yachts that are designed to provide a comfortable and stylish cruising experience. These boats are built with fiberglass hulls, which provide excellent durability and resistance to the elements. The Cantius Series includes models ranging from 42 to 60 feet in length, and all models come equipped with a range of features and amenities that are designed to enhance the boating experience.
Some of the key features of the Cantius Series include:
- Spacious and comfortable cabins
- Large windows that provide excellent visibility and natural light
- State-of-the-art entertainment systems
- Gourmet galleys with high-end appliances
- Luxurious master suites with private heads
- Generous storage space for all your gear and supplies
American Built Yacht
Cruisers Yachts is proud to be an American-built yacht manufacturer. The company's boats are built by skilled craftsmen in its state-of-the-art facility in Oconto, Wisconsin. This commitment to quality and craftsmanship is evident in every boat that the company produces.
The American Built Yacht line includes boats ranging from 33 to 60 feet in length. These boats are built with the same attention to detail and high-quality materials that have made Cruisers Yachts one of the most respected names in the boating industry.
Some of the key features of the American Built Yacht line include:
- High-quality construction using only the finest materials
- Spacious and comfortable cabins with plenty of headroom
- State-of-the-art entertainment systems
- Gourmet galleys with high-end appliances
- Luxurious master suites with private heads
- Large swim platforms for easy access to the water
In conclusion, Cruisers Yachts offers a range of boats that are designed to meet the needs of boaters of all skill levels. Whether you are looking for a luxury motor yacht or an American-built yacht, you can be confident that Cruisers Yachts has the perfect boat for you.
Acquisition and Partnerships
Cruisers Yachts, a Wisconsin-based yacht manufacturer, was recently acquired by MarineMax, the world's largest recreational boat and yacht retailer. The acquisition was announced in May 2021, with MarineMax purchasing KCS International, Inc., the parent company of Cruisers Yachts, for $63 million.
Cruisers Yachts is recognized as a premier manufacturer of premium yachts, producing models ranging from 33- to 60-feet. MarineMax's acquisition of Cruisers Yachts expands its portfolio and solidifies its position in the industry.
This acquisition is not the first partnership for MarineMax, as the company has a history of successful partnerships and acquisitions. In 2018, MarineMax partnered with Silver Seas Yachts, a leading yacht dealer in California, to expand its presence in the West Coast market.
MarineMax also has a longstanding partnership with Sea Ray, a manufacturer of luxury boats and yachts. In 2018, Sea Ray introduced the Sea Ray Sport Yacht and L-Class models, which were exclusively sold through MarineMax.
W. Brett McGill, the CEO and President of MarineMax, has expressed excitement about the acquisition of Cruisers Yachts and the opportunities it presents for the company. McGill stated that the acquisition aligns with MarineMax's strategy of expanding its product offerings and providing customers with the best options in the market.
MarineMax also owns Marquis Yachts, a manufacturer of luxury yachts ranging from 42- to 72-feet. The acquisition of Cruisers Yachts further strengthens MarineMax's position in the luxury yacht market and provides customers with a wider range of options to choose from.
Overall, MarineMax's acquisition of Cruisers Yachts and its history of successful partnerships and acquisitions demonstrate the company's commitment to providing customers with the best products and services in the industry.
Production and Capacity
Cruisers Yachts is a leading boat manufacturer with a state-of-the-art production facility in Pulaski, Wisconsin. The company has been expanding its production capacity to meet the increasing demand for its high-quality yachts.
In 2021, Cruisers Yachts announced the acquisition of a 216,000 square foot manufacturing plant in Pulaski, WI, formerly used by Carver and Marquis yachts. This expansion allows Cruisers Yachts to more than double its capacity over time. The company's investment in this new facility demonstrates its commitment to providing its customers with the best possible yachts.
Cruisers Yachts produces a wide range of premium yachts, ranging from 33 to 60 feet in length. The company's production process is highly efficient and incorporates the latest technology to ensure that each yacht is of the highest quality. The company's skilled craftsmen and technicians work tirelessly to ensure that each yacht is built to the highest standards.
With its expanded production capacity, Cruisers Yachts is well-positioned to continue to meet the growing demand for its yachts. The company is committed to providing its customers with the best possible yachts and is constantly innovating to improve its production process and the quality of its yachts.
Financial Overview
Cruisers Yachts, a Wisconsin-based boat manufacturer, has been acquired by MarineMax, a boat and yacht retailer based in Clearwater, Florida. The terms of the acquisition were not disclosed, but it was reported that MarineMax paid $63 million for the company.
According to PitchBook, Cruisers Yachts is a privately held company that produces American-built premium yachts, with models ranging from 33' to 60' feet. The company has been operating as a subsidiary of KCS International, Inc. since it was acquired in 2003.
In terms of financial performance, there is limited information available. However, MarineMax's CEO, Brett McGill, stated that the acquisition of Cruisers Yachts is expected to be accretive to earnings in the first year of ownership. This suggests that the acquisition is expected to generate positive financial results for MarineMax.
MarineMax's financial capacity is also worth noting. According to their most recent quarterly report, the company had $56.9 million in cash and cash equivalents as of June 30, 2023. In addition, they have a $300 million credit facility, which provides them with financial flexibility to pursue growth opportunities such as the acquisition of Cruisers Yachts.
It is worth noting that MarineMax's focus is on higher-margin businesses, such as yacht sales and services. This is reflected in their gross margins, which were 24.2% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2022. This suggests that they are able to generate strong profits from their operations.
Overall, while specific financial information about Cruisers Yachts is limited, the acquisition by MarineMax is expected to be accretive to earnings and reflects MarineMax's focus on higher-margin businesses.
Dealer Network
Cruisers Yachts has a network of authorized dealers across the United States and beyond. These dealers are carefully selected to ensure that customers receive the best possible service and support when purchasing and owning a Cruisers Yacht.
The company's dealer network is made up of experienced professionals who are knowledgeable about the brand and its products. They are trained to provide customers with expert advice and assistance, from selecting the right yacht to arranging financing and insurance.
Cruisers Yachts' dealerships are located in major boating regions across the United States, including the East Coast, West Coast, Gulf Coast, and Great Lakes. The company also has dealerships in Canada, Mexico, and other countries around the world.
Customers can find their nearest authorized dealer on the Cruisers Yachts website, where they can browse available models and schedule a test drive. The website also features a dealer locator tool that allows customers to search for dealerships by location or name.
In addition to selling new and pre-owned yachts, Cruisers Yachts dealers also offer a range of services to help customers maintain and repair their vessels. These services include winterization, storage, detailing, and mechanical repairs.
Overall, Cruisers Yachts' dealer network is an important part of the company's commitment to providing customers with a high-quality boating experience. With knowledgeable professionals and a wide range of services, customers can feel confident in their decision to purchase a Cruisers Yacht.
Market Presence and Growth
Cruisers Yachts is a well-known brand in the boating industry, recognized for producing premium yachts ranging from 33- to 60-feet. The company has a strong market presence and has been expanding its production capacity in recent years.
In 2021, due to demand, Cruisers Yachts announced the acquisition of a 216,000 square foot, purpose-built boat manufacturing plant in Pulaski, WI, which allows the company to more than double its capacity over time. This expansion is a testament to the company's commitment to growth and innovation.
Cruisers Yachts has been able to maintain a significant market share in the boating industry due to its focus on quality, design, and innovation. The company's website, cruisersyachts.com, showcases its range of yachts, including the Cantius series, which features an open-concept design that blurs the line between indoor and outdoor living spaces.
The company's growth can also be attributed to its ability to adapt to changing market trends and customer needs. For example, Cruisers Yachts has recently introduced a hybrid propulsion system, which allows boaters to enjoy a quieter and more fuel-efficient ride.
Overall, Cruisers Yachts' market presence and growth are a testament to the company's commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. With its recent expansion and focus on new technologies, the company is well-positioned to continue its success in the boating industry.
Impact of Pandemic
The pandemic has had a significant impact on the boat manufacturing industry, including Cruisers Yachts, a Wisconsin-based manufacturer. The pandemic caused a surge in demand for boats as people sought out socially distant recreational activities. However, it also led to supply chain disruptions and labor shortages, which made it challenging for manufacturers to keep up with the increased demand.
Cruisers Yachts, like many other boat manufacturers, struggled to meet the soaring demand for boats due to supply chain issues caused by the pandemic. According to a Marketplace report, the pandemic caused a shortage of raw materials, such as resin and foam, which are essential for boat manufacturing. This shortage led to production delays and increased costs for manufacturers.
Despite these challenges, Cruisers Yachts managed to weather the pandemic relatively well. In fact, the company was acquired by MarineMax, the world's largest recreational boat and yacht retailer, in May 2021. The acquisition is a testament to the resilience of the Wisconsin-based boat manufacturer and its ability to adapt to the challenges posed by the pandemic.
In conclusion, the pandemic has had both positive and negative impacts on the boat manufacturing industry, including Cruisers Yachts. While the surge in demand for boats has been a boon for manufacturers, supply chain disruptions and labor shortages have made it challenging for them to keep up with the increased demand. However, companies like Cruisers Yachts have shown that they are capable of adapting to these challenges and continuing to thrive in the face of adversity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some past models of Cruisers Yachts?
Cruisers Yachts has a long history of producing high-quality boats. Some of their past models include the 54 Cantius, 50 Cantius, 45 Cantius, 38 GLS, 35 Express, and the 338 Bow Rider.
What is the price range of Cruiser Yachts?
Cruisers Yachts offers a range of boats at different price points. The price range varies depending on the model and features, but generally, their boats start at around $200,000 and can go up to several million dollars.
Where are Cruisers Yachts manufactured?
Cruisers Yachts is headquartered in Oconto, Wisconsin. They recently acquired a nearby facility in Pulaski, Wisconsin, which was formerly used to manufacture Carver and Marquis yachts. The company now utilizes this 216,000-square-foot manufacturing space to expand their brand.
Who owns Cruisers Yachts?
Cruisers Yachts is owned by KCS International, Inc. MarineMax, a boat and yacht retailer based in Clearwater, Florida, acquired KCS International in 2021.
What is the Cruisers Yachts parts catalog?
Cruisers Yachts offers a comprehensive parts catalog that includes everything from engine parts to electrical components. The catalog is available online and can be accessed through the company's website.
Who makes Cruiser Yachts?
Cruisers Yachts is made by a team of skilled craftsmen and women who are passionate about producing high-quality boats. The company utilizes a deep and knowledgeable workforce to ensure that their boats meet the highest standards of safety and quality.