Chris-Craft and Regal, iconic names in the ‘Sunshine State'

by Bob Wonders on 1 Jul 2010 Florida, southern-most state in the US of A, is home to many boat builders, from trailer boats to mega yachts, including many brand names which have become legendary names in the industry, not only ion the US, but worldwide.

Two of the more recent and most memorable manufacturers I’ve been lucky enough to visit have been Regal Marine and Chris Craft.

Regal Marine, based in Orlando, are so proud of their family owned business, that they open their doors every Monday at 9am to give locals, and their international guests, a free tour of their awe-inspiring plant. Considering it’s on the way to and from the airport, it’s a great way to spend your free time waiting for a flight or perhaps a great stop over whilst on your way to Disneyland with the kids.

Chris Craft, with their headquarters in Sarasota, on Florida’s gulf coast, are renowned for being one of the most prestigious power boats available. Established in 1874, the Chris Craft heritage runs deeper than any other boat builder considering they were the first powerboat ever built in the world. Hence their iconic use of teak throughout their fibreglass hulls. And Chris Craft’s founder? Wait for it…Christopher Columbus Smith, not to be confused with the great Italian explorer, Christopher Columbus.

Regal not only has a huge following in the US, they are also regarded as the boat of choice here in Australia. Chosen for their style, performance and quality, Regal really has perfected their art of boat building. In fact Regal is making waves through their Australian dealership, Premier Marine, with Steve Hannes, the Dealer Principal at the helm.

For now, both Regal and Chris-Craft, thanks to Premier Marine, will be prominent at the rapidly-approaching Sydney International Boat Show (July 29- August 2).

For Steve Hannes and brand manager Lee Poulson it will be a case of all hands on deck as Premier Marine prepares to unveil three new innovative models.

The dealership will display the eagerly-awaited Volvo-Penta IPS-powered Regal 52 Sport Coupe and two new Chris-Craft models in the 28 Launch and the sleek, all-new Corsair.

Steve says, 'the new options available on the Chris Crafts are set to re-define the iconic Aussie Boating BBQ experience …and the 52 Sport Coupe? Well, let’s just say her Euro-Chic design teamed with Regal’s American craftsmanship and Volvo’s IPS, is set to launch her legendary status into unknown waters here in Australia!

'We will be showcasing our range of Chris Crafts and Regal Boats from 19 to 53 feet, (9 boats overall) which puts us in a rather unique position considering we are confident we have a dream boat to suit everybody wishing to experience the magic that boating offers.'

It has now been two-years since Steve took control of the Chris-Craft and Regal ranges; he was previously involved only as a financial supporter, but when the opportunity came to take control he jumped at it.

'Moving into retail has been the best move I've ever made,' he said, 'it’s a brilliant lifestyle choice and I’m honoured to represent such brilliant boats...it certainly makes my job very easy and the people drawn to these particular craft are always so interesting and a pleasure to spend quality time with.'

Of course, Chris-Craft and Regal, along with many (too many!) other manufacturers were ‘slam dunked' by the global financial crisis of recent years. Both were forced to lay off staff and reduce model ranges.

However, it's highly promising to note that both have re-employed some staff and both have renewed confidence in the industry's future. And where other manufacturers are pulling back, it’s great to see both brands launching new models in these turmoil times as it shows their determinism and faith in their quality product.

At the recent Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show I was able to catch up with an old friend in Bonnie Frenkel, Regal Marine's international sales manager. She freely admitted the financial downturn had caused problems for the firm. On the good side, she told me that more than 100 employees, some of whom had been laid off a year or two ago, had been re-employed and business was indeed improving.

Bonnie said that she had every confidence in Premier Marine and Steve Hannes and Regal is looking forward to a great future with them.

Regal Marine was established by the late Paul Kuck (pronounced Cook) in 1969. It went on to become one of the largest employers in Orlando and remains a family company with Paul's sons Tim and Duane at the helm.

Similar stories of recovery are being heard from the Chris-Craft facility south of Orlando in beautiful Sarasota.

For further information on the Chris-Craft and Regal ranges, contact Premier Marine, New South Head Road, Rose Bay, telephone (02) 9328-0999. Website http://www.premiermarine.com.au

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