Investment in the future continues to fuel Kadey-Krogen and Summit Motoryachts
PORTSMOUTH, R.I., September 16, 2021— In April, Kadey-Krogen Yachts President & CEO Tucker West announced the company accessed additional growth-equity capital to allow for structural changes that are part of an overall long-term strategic plan.
At the Newport International Boat Show, the company made multiple announcements that revealed the initial elements of this strategic plan. These include two new model introductions as well as a preliminary announcement for a third new model. West also informed current customers and partners on the company international sales expansion, as well as details on an overall branding refresh, a new website, and the Kadey-Krogen Ship’s Store.
For new launches, the company is extremely excited to announce the introduction of the Kadey-Krogen 60 Open (shown above). The new 60 Open continues to build on the success of the 50 Open and will feature the same open living concept first shown on the 50, which seamlessly joins the salon and galley area with the pilothouse. As a result of the volume and use of space of the 60 Open, a day head can be easily added in the pilothouse to enhance livability while on passage or on the hook. Belowdecks, the en suite master is placed amidships and features a king-size berth to take full advantage of the 60 Open’s 19-foot, 6-inch beam. Additional highlights include twin John Deere 200-hp 4045 diesels, transoceanic range yet an island-friendly draft of less than 6 feet, and several interior layout options including a three-stateroom, three-head layout with a convertible office area. Provisions for crew accommodations are also offered abaft the engine room. The first 60 Open is scheduled to launch in 2023.
“The 60 Open represents the evolution of the Open Series and is yet another example of the advantages of having our own in-house design and engineering team,” said West. “It’s based on our proven design and engineering practices yet incorporates our focus on constant product evolution and a quest for perfection.”
This same philosophy is carried over to the Summit Motoryacht series—the performance yacht line designed by venerable naval architect Michael Peters. Coming off the successful launch of the 54 Motoryacht, the company announced the introduction of the 54 Coupe. The design brings the outdoors in with a large optional sunroof, and the seamless integration of the aft-galley area and cockpit. An optional sun shade is designed to recess into the hardtop overhang when not in use. The interior accommodations reflect the craftsmanship all Kadey-Krogen-built boats are known for and features an amidships master, a VIP, and guest stateroom. Early projected top speed is 28 knots.
“The desire and objective has always been to create multiple model offerings within the Summit series,” says West. “It’s truly a unique combination of one of the best performance hull designers with more than four decades of boatbuilding experience and craftsmanship of Kadey-Krogen, all offered within a customer-first, factory-direct sales model.”
As the company focuses on new model design and production, the team is simultaneously identifying key markets and sales distribution channels. To that end, the company announced that it has signed on with
U.K. based Vortec Marine to represent both Kadey-Krogen and Summit brands in Northern Europe. This new addition will complement the company’s distribution with Passepartout in Italy, France, Monaco, Spain, and Switzerland. And Kadey-Krogen Yachts is also working with Paspartu in Croatia, Slovenia, and Montenegro.
“The merger of McGowan Marine into Vortec Marine created one of the best sales and service organizations in the U.K.,” said West. “Ross Collingwood and Innes McGowan are the type of passionate boaters and professionals we love working with. Better yet, our customers will too. We’re excited to re-enter this key market on such solid footing with a company of Vortec’s caliber.”
Anyone attending the show and visiting the Kadey-Krogen booth would also see the company’s branding refresh at its booth and general update of the marketing elements. The most significant new project launched was an entirely new website that is focused on both educating and informing future and current customers alike.
“Kadey-Krogen has such a significant story to tell, from its proven hull design, construction techniques, and overall craftsmanship,” said Marketing Coordinator Ford Bauer. “We wanted to ensure we had a platform that allowed us to do so within an enhanced user experience. In the near future, you’ll see updated videos, more how-to content, and updated information on all of our new models.”
Current owners and Kadey-Krogen enthusiasts will also appreciate the company’s newly launched Ship’s Store which includes apparel for both Krogen and Summit owners.
“We recognize and appreciate how passionate our owners are about their boats,” said Bauer. “So if we can provide an opportunity for them to show that passion, it’s a no-brainer.
“Everyone at the Kadey-Krogen organization is excited to kick off the fall show season with so many exciting projects and new models,” said West. “It’s very rewarding to finally share what’s been happening behind the scenes for these last 8 months with our customers, friends, and partners. And I promise, we’re just getting warmed up.”