Highfield Boats names 15th dealer in US network
Highfield Boats USA, which makes rigid inflatable boats (RIBS) in America says it has nearly a 30 per cent market share and has expanded its US sales network.
Its latest dealer partner, number 15, is Sea Native Boat Sales in Key West, Florida.
Sea Native Boat Sales is a sister business to Sail Away catamaran sales and charter, which has been in operation since 2010. Sea Native and Sail Away are located in the Perry Marina on Stock Island, the largest wet slip marina in the Florida Keys, capable of berthing vessels up to 300ft.
“Almost every one of the catamarans we sell has a tender, so this was a natural progression for our business to move in,” says Amy Michaud of Sea Native.
“We have always seen the smaller RIBS as essential to the cruising lifestyle, but we now realise that RIBS are ideal vessels no matter what your boating interest may be. For example, many of the larger RIBS have the ability to take numerous friends out fishing or exploring waterways on day trips. RIBS provide an incredibly smooth and safe ride in rough seas – which is one reason they are used by the government and military. Financially, RIBS tend to be a better value when compared to similar-sized vessels, and they are lighter weight, which increases their fuel efficiency.”
Christophe Lavigne, president, Highfield Boats USA, says the move is a key part of the business strategy for 2024, alongside starting domestic RIB production at the company’s factory in Cadillac, Michigan. It has also partnered with engine companies like BRP, Flux Marine, Ilmor and Zero Jet to diversify the model range.
“We are delighted to welcome the team at Sea Native, with their unique experience and insights into the Florida Keys boating and sailing markets, to the Highfield dealer network,” Lavigne says.
In 2024, Highfield launched the new Velox 420 powered by the 90-hp BRP Rotax jet drive.
“The new Highfield Velox 420 is completely sold out as of this date and we are selling bookings now into spring delivery,” Lavigne says. “We maintained sales level to 2023 at the 2024 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show and Annapolis Sailboat Show, increased revenue and gained market share for Highfield, all despite a depressed domestic boating market. With the support of our U.S. dealer network, we look forward to achieving even bigger results in 2025.”
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