American Boatbuilders Association Celebrates 30 Years

Founded on September 30th, 1992, by visionary boat builder leaders, the American Boatbuilders Association, Inc., the leading buying group for independent boat builders is celebrating its 30th anniversary. The Founding Members included Jim Lane of Chaparral Boats, Doug Smith of Baja Boats, Pack St. Clair of Cobalt Boats, Ed Atchley of Cobia Boats, Terry Bogart of Cruistar, Inc., Tom Trabue of Ebbtide Corporation, Eddie Smith of Grady-White Boats, Charles Marshall of Monterey Boats, Duane Kuck of Regal Marine Industries, Kim Slocum of Rinker Boats, Victor Porter of Thunderbird – Formula, Al Fink of Stingray Boats, and Leon Slikkers of S2 Yachts and Pursuit.

ABA’s initial objective was to buy engines together to improve their competitive edge. The efforts were expanded to buying raw materials, manufactured products, equipment, and services while reducing costs and leveraging their buying power. ABA also focuses on sharing knowledge, member collaboration and building strong partnerships with key suppliers to improve our businesses. The ABA is organized to bring the voice of the independent boat builder to outside influences such as suppliers, industry associations, and the government.

The roster of membership in the American Boatbuilders Association (ABA) includes Avalon Pontoons, Aviara Boats, Bass Cat & Yar Craft, Chaparral & Robalo Boats, Correct Craft – Nautique, Crest Pontoons, Everglades Boats, Centurion & Supreme Boats, Grady – White Boats, MasterCraft, Monterey & Blackfin Boats, Parker Offshore, Ranger Tugs & Cutwater Boats, Regal Marine Industries, S2 Yachts – Tiara, SeaArk Boats, Sportsman Boats, Stingray Boats, Thunderbird Products, and Tige Boats.

The American Boat Builders Association is a coalition of 26 leading independent U.S. boat manufacturers. ABA member companies have approximately 8,100 employees in the United States, with 21 facilities in 12 states. ABA companies produce over 29,000 boats annually. ABA produces more than 23% of all fiberglass boats above 16′ built in America.