Whisper Marine acquires Crownline Boats

Whisper Marine has acquired Crownline Boats, an American manufacturer of sport, deck and cruiser boats based in West Frankfort, Illinois. The acquisition follows Whisper Marine’s purchase of Qwest Pontoons in December 2025.

Whisper Marine is part of Whisper USA, an American manufacturer of outdoor lifestyle products founded and led by CEO Dave Hatley. Based in Johnson City, Tennessee, Whisper USA manufactures hot tubs, swim spas, cold plunges, golf carts, utility terrain vehicles and boats at facilities in Tennessee, Michigan and Illinois.

Crownline has delivered more than 90,000 boats to dealers and customers worldwide over its 35-year history. The company builds sport, deck and cruiser boats and carries out water testing on Lake Crownline before each boat leaves the factory. Following the acquisition, production will continue at Crownline’s manufacturing facility in southern Illinois.

Whisper Marine says it plans to invest in product development and increase production capacity at the site, while also expanding the Crownline dealer network.

“Crownline is one of the most respected names in American boatbuilding, and we are excited to carry it forward,” says Dave Hatley, CEO of Whisper USA. “The team in West Frankfort has built something special over 35 years, and we plan to invest in its continued growth as Whisper Marine adds sport, deck, and cruiser boats to its portfolio.”