cabo yachts new bern nc

White River Marine Group Acquires Legendary Boat Builder Hatteras

Company announces expansion of Hatteras with iconic MAKO and Ranger Saltwater boat brands to relocate to modernized state-of-the-art coastal manufacturing center

Passion for fishing drives vision to establish New Bern, N.C. as “the saltwater sportfishing boat building capital of the world.”

NEW BERN, NC – Noted angler and conservationist Johnny Morris, who founded and grew both Bass Pro Shops and White River Marine Group to become North America’s premier outdoor and conservation company, today announced plans for a significant expansion of its saltwater manufacturing footprint with the acquisition of Hatteras Inc. The legendary maker of saltwater fishing boats is based in New Bern, North Carolina, a premier location for saltwater fishing.

Hatteras leapt to the forefront of the sportfishing industry more than 60 years ago, with ruggedly built saltwater boats that earned a reputation for high-performance. Just how impactful is the influence of Hatteras Yachts on the offshore boating landscape? Transformational. When Willis Slane, Hatteras’ founder, built the 41’ Knit Wits in 1959, it was the world’s first fiberglass boat over 40-feet in length.

From the groundbreaking hull number one, Hatteras has earned a reputation for industry-leading performance, innovation and seaworthiness. Engineered to stand up to the unforgiving conditions of North Carolina, Hatteras Yachts can be found all over the world. The brand’s trademark lies not only in technical innovation, but in the effortless blending of luxury with performance.

Today, it continues to build exceptional yachts and quality sportfishing boats. The White River Marine Group provides an incredible platform to usher in the next era of the historic brand.

The brand will become part of the White River Marine Group, the world’s largest boat manufacturer. The family of brands includes TRACKER BOATS, the No. 1 fishing boat in America for the past 45 years; ASCEND, the world’s best-selling kayaks; and other leading brands including MAKO, Ranger, Triton, Tahoe, Nitro and others.

The addition will shift the focus of the company’s saltwater manufacturing from the Midwest to the Atlantic seashore, closer to the saltwater market and a thriving community of craftsmen and women. The company will continue to support and grow Hatteras, as well as relocate production of iconic saltwater boat brands MAKO and Ranger Saltwater to New Bern, which is poised to become the new world capital for offshore angling and boating.

While White River plans to continue to produce a limited number of exceptional Hatteras yachts, the primary focus will be devoted to building the next generation of the very finest sportfishing boats ever made. Uniting the Bass Pro Shops family of brands with Hatteras Yachts promises good things for the offshore sportfishing industry. 

Bass Pro Shops has long been a leader in conservation across North America. The company’s heritage is defined by not simply supporting conservation, but actively driving it.

Plans call for a major investment to modernize the Hatteras facility and establish a state-of-the-art coastal manufacturing center generating hundreds of new jobs. Consistent with Bass Pro’s reputation for turning shopping for outdoor gear into an experiential adventure, the plant will offer customers demo rides on the Atlantic Ocean and opportunities to tour the factory. It will also serve as an R&D center for sea-trialing and product development across all three brands.

The move frees up capacity at existing manufacturing plants in Miami, Oklahoma and Flippin, Arkansas for additional freshwater boat production, with zero job losses anticipated.

Driven by passion for fishing

Boating and fishing have been at the heart of Bass Pro Shops since its founding in 1972, when avid young angler Johnny Morris started selling bait and tackle in 8 square feet in the back of his father’s liquor store in Springfield, Missouri.

Six years later, Morris revolutionized the marine industry when he introduced the world’s first “fish ready” professionally rigged and nationally marketed boat, motor and trailer package, the Bass Tracker. For the first time, fishermen could buy quality fishing boats “factory direct” at tremendous savings, allowing thousands of families to access the water for the first time. In Hatteras, Morris identified the same qualities responsible for Bass Pro’s growth and success – pride, quality and craftsmanship.

“We are inspired by the many similarities between the pride and passion of the master boat builders from our home in the Ozarks and the legendary boat builders of North Carolina and the New Bern area in particular. Both share the same genuine commitment to American craftsmanship, with scores of family members working together and generations of highly experienced boat builders taking pride in what they do,” said Johnny. “We’re committed to support Hatteras in staying true to its roots as a legendary saltwater brand built by a passion for fishing while expanding our operations to better serve all those who love the sea.”

Passion for offshore angling

Morris himself has long been familiar with Hatteras and offshore angling off the coast of North Carolina. On March 3, 1995, while fishing sunken World War II ships 25 miles off the coast of Cape Hatteras not far from New Bern, Morris caught and released what was, at the time, a single day record 31 giant bluefin tuna, estimated to weigh more than 12,000 pounds, on rod and reel.

Committed to Conservation

To honor the legacy of dear friend and North Carolina conservation hero Eddie Bridges, Johnny Morris also announced a $1 million conservation pledge focused on the coastal area, to be paid over 5 years .

Mr. Bridges, who was scheduled to attend today’s announcement ceremonies, passed away earlier this week. Eddie leaves behind a lasting impact in North Carolina, having established the North Carolina Wildlife Endowment Fund and not-for-profit North Carolina Wildlife Habitat Foundation.

The pledge awards several significant grants to conservation organizations actively working to advance wildlife and habitat conservation in North Carolina. The grants are funded in part by the not-for-profit Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund, which unites millions of passionate sportsmen and women by inviting them to round up their purchases to join the company’s efforts as partners in conservation.

First year commitments include:

• $100,000 to the North Carolina Wildlife Habitat Foundation : As a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization, the Foundation assists in the acquisition, management and protection of wildlife habitat within the state of North Carolina and promote conservation education for the benefit of future generations.
• $50,000 to the University of Maine for a North Carolina-based Atlantic bluefin tuna satellite tagging project . One of the most sought-after gamefish in the world, the research project will assess the status of the Atlantic bluefin tuna population and set management and conservation goals to ensure the long-term sustainability of the species.
• $50,000 to the International Game Fish Association for a rigorous Marlin satellite tagging project . As the world’s largest citizen science billfish conservation project of its kind, the research is designed to better understand population connectivity on a global level to help ensure long-term conservation. 

Committed to Conserving Marine Fisheries: The grants reflect Johnny’s steadfast commitment to positively impact marine fisheries. He previously co-chaired the Morris-Deal Commission on Saltwater Recreational Fisheries Management, leading to the congressional reauthorization of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act in June 2015, advancing key saltwater recreational fishing priorities across the nation’s marine fisheries.

Several prominent conservation leaders from around the state and nation were on-hand to participate in the announcement including:

• Jeff Angers, President, Center for Sportfishing Policy
• Jason Schratwieser, President, International Game Fish Association
• Ellen Peel, President, Billfish Foundation
• Kyle Briggs, Deputy Director, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
• Teena Koury, Vice Chairman, North Carolina Habitat Foundation
• Gordon Myers, Retired Director, North Carolina Resources Commission
• Walt Golet, Ph.D, Professor, University of Maine School of Marine Sciences

“This is not just a business investment for us,” said Morris. “It’s at the heart of who we are. Fishing, boating and conservation have been lifelong shared passions in our company, and we are grateful to our team members and independent dealer network members for their boundless enthusiasm and support. We are honored to be a part of the New Bern community. Our goal is to grow operations in North Carolina and expand upon the legendary foundation of the Hatteras brand and its incredible people.”

Morris added, “We love the passion for fishing and commitment to craftsmanship found in New Bern. We’re very grateful to Governor Cooper and his team, as well as community officials and leaders including Craven County Manager Jack Veit and Craven County Board of Commissioners Chairperson Jason Jones for their genuine welcoming spirit and their leadership in supporting our vision to invest in this incredible community.”

Committed to North Carolina : The New Bern facility is an opportunity to strengthen Bass Pro Shops’ 22-year history in the state, which began with the opening of the company’s Outdoor World store in Concord, North Carolina in 1999. A longstanding friendship between Johnny and North Carolina-based racing legend Richard Childress has resulted in a significant partnership promoting iconic outdoor brands to a global audience through major NASCAR sponsorships.

Lauren Good named Director of Saltwater Operations

During today’s ceremonies, White River Marine Group President Scott Ernest announced that Lauren Good, a 12-year veteran of the company, has been appointed to Director of Saltwater Operations and will be overseeing the new Hatteras facility. Lauren started in retail operations and held several leadership roles within the company before transitioning to manufacturing.

“It’s great to see the next chapter open for this important manufacturing site in our region,” said N.C. Representative Steve Tyson. “White River Marine Group is the number one company in their industry, and we welcome the new jobs and investment they’re bringing to New Bern and Craven County.”

Latest News

Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's

March 26, 2024.

March 20, 2024

White River Marine Group

March 14, 2024.

White River Marine Group acquires Hatteras

White River Marine Group announced a significant expansion of its saltwater manufacturing footprint with the acquisition of Hatteras Inc., in New Bern, North Carolina.

The brand will become part of the White River Marine Group. The company’s family of brands includes Tracker, Mako, Ranger, Triton, Tahoe, Nitro and others.

The addition will shift the focus of the company’s saltwater manufacturing from the Midwest to the Atlantic seashore, closer to the saltwater market and a thriving community of craftsmen and women. Importantly, the purchase represents an investment in New Bern, North Carolina’s long history of boat building and the jobs it sustains.

“We are inspired by the many similarities between the pride and passion of the master boat builders from our home in the Ozarks and the legendary boat builders of North Carolina and the New Bern area in particular,” stated a company promotional piece. “Both share the same genuine commitment to American craftsmanship, with scores of family members working together and generations of highly experienced boat builders taking pride in what they do. We’re committed to support Hatteras in staying true to its roots as a legendary saltwater brand built by a passion for fishing while expanding our operations to better serve all those who love the sea.”

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One comment.

Thank you for your confidence in the Hatteras brand and the great manufacturing facility that is in place in New Bern. As a long time boat owner, two of which were older Hatteras yachts, I am thrilled to hear that White River Marine Group will play a significant role in the re-emergence and bright future of the legendary brand name, Hatteras Yachts. It will be exciting to witness! George R. Scott

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New Hatteras Yachts For Sale

From innovative hull design and construction to cutting-edge technology for owners, hatteras yachts has led the sportfish and motor yacht industry in customer experience. united yacht sales has the experience and professional team to help guide you through the purchase of a new hatteras yacht. hatteras yachts.

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Speak To A Hatteras Yachts Sales Professional

Written by:  Peter Schmidt ; Also Edited:  Boating and Yachting Safety Resources

Resources:  Safety Check ,  Guide to Boating Safety ,  Navigational Aid

History of Hatteras Yachts

Almost 60 years ago, Hatteras Yachts founder Willis Slane set out to build a more durable sportfishing boat that could tame the waters off of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. What he didn’t know at the time is that his idea would spark a legendary yacht brand that would become synonymous with the world of offshore sportfishing, particularly among die-hard Billfish tournament captains.   The waters off of Cape Hatteras are influenced by the Gulf Stream and while this does bring with it a variety of popular gamefish like Marlin, Sailfish, Wahoo, and Tuna, it also can turn into a rough ride when wind and waves pick up. Slane’s first 40-foot fiberglass yacht, the Knit Wits, revolutionized the industry as we know it today with its strength and remarkable attention to detail. Hatteras Yachts are known for over-engineering every detail on their yachts, taking a que from the brand’s originator Willis Slane, which has resulted in a line of sportfishing yachts and luxury motor yachts, known for their innovation and quality craftsmanship.

It’s that innovation that has kept Hatteras building boats every day through the highs and lows of the economy, which gives our yacht owners the peace of mind that the team at Hatteras will continue to support them with warranty, service, re-sale value, and exciting new product to further their boating experience beyond all expectations. From hull design to propulsion choices to interactive on-board connectivity, this commitment to innovation is what secures the lasting legacy of Hatteras Yachts.

Brunswick sold Hatteras Yachts in 2013 to Versa Capital Management, LLC, an investment firm with a large portfolio of companies that includes Black Angus Steakhouses, Silver Airways, Polartec, and a variety of other companies in multiple industries. As part of this sale, Versa also retained the rights to Cabo Yachts as well. Today, both brands are thriving as Hatteras continues to debut new models like the GT59 and the GT65 Carolina , which are back on the tournament circuit and winning awards. The Hatteras factory also debuted the new Cabo 41 Express at recent boat shows.

Where Are Hatteras Boats And Yachts Made?

The Hatteras factory is located in New Bern, North Carolina at 110 N Glenburie Road, which is located in between Wilmington, NC and Virginia Beach, VA. The factory sits on the Neuse River which is only a few minutes drive by boat to the Atlantic Ocean. The environment in the Atlantic Ocean can be rough at times which influenced the Hatteras "Carolina-Flare" hull design as well as the need to use a solid fiberglass resin-infused hull for extra strength and stiffness. Today, the Hatteras factory is thriving and employs hundreds of craftsmen and workers, contributing to the local economy.

United's Relationship With Hatteras

Whether you are charging 4-foot seas to the canyons or comfortably cruising the coast to Florida for the winter, it’s the behind-the-scenes details that make a Hatteras special. The patented air induction system reduces noise and vibration by over 200% while the resin-infusion process during the construction process provides for stronger and lighter decks, bulkheads, and other parts of the yacht. Even the in-house designed multi-bladed hybrid propellers offer advantages including improved fuel economy and a quieter ride. These details can only truly be appreciated by a trip to the Hatteras factory in New Bern, North Carolina.

United Yacht Sales – New Jersey Division – is proud to be the exclusive dealer for Hatteras Sportfish and Motor Yachts in the Cape May area.   Not only can our expert staff guide you through the new boat build and purchase process, but our industry-leading brokerage team can help with the re-sale of your used Hatteras Yacht. Scott White is the Hatteras and Cabo brand manager for United and recently sold hull #3 of the new GT59. If you're considering purchasing a new Hatteras or Cabo, give Scott a call today at (609) 780-0309. We have plenty of resources to help you through the process of buying a new Hatteras Yacht .

Who is the CEO of Hatteras Yachts?

In January 2017, Kelly Grindle took over as Chief Executive Officer of Hatteras Yachts and Cabo Yachts. Grindle's experience prior to Hatteras includes President of Outdoor Products at Vista Outdoor in Overland Park, Kansas. Vista Outdoor is a $2.3 billion designer, manufacturer, and marketer of consumer products in the outdoor sports and recreation market. Grindle received a degree in Finance from Indiana University - Kelley School of Business. Chairman of Hatteras and the CEO of Versa Capital Management had this to say about Kelly Grindle coming to Hatteras, "We are pleased to have recruited a senior executive with the industry knowledge and experience to lead Hatteras Yachts through its next phase of growth. Kelly Grindle is an acknowledged leader in the outdoor sports and recreational marine industries, and will have a positive impact on our ability to deliver the best quality yachts to Hatteras customers today, and to continue the company's long tradition of pioneering innovative design and technology in the future."

Featured Hatteras Motor Yacht Models

The new M90 Panacera Motor Yacht

Hatteras recently launched the new M90 Panacera in 2017 to rave reviews from brand enthusiasts, magazine editors, and other motor yacht owners. Hatteras CEO Kelley Grindle gushed over the “outstanding panoramic views as well as the ease of flow between social spaces.” If the new M90 was built for anything, it was for entertaining family or friends comfortably at sea. The main deck floorplan is completely unobstructed with lots of natural light giving you an openness that is unmatched in its class. The Flybridge is wide-open and allows plenty of room for sunbathing, grilling, and enjoying your company. The 22-foot 6-inch beam creates a broad sense of space and open areas, particularly in the salon and master stateroom which is full beam that has a king-size berth. The M90 has three other staterooms, each with en suite heads, along with crew quarters access via the transom that also has separate crew heads and galley.

M60 Motor Yacht

While the Hatteras M60 may be the smallest of the motor yacht series, the Hatteras team has done an exceptional job utilizing the 18' 2" beam and the space it creates. Small enough to be operated without a captain and crew, the M60 is a great option for the experienced motor yacht owner who wants an interior known to be one of the largest in its class. The full beam master suite is comfortable and features enough storage and hanging closet space for the M60 to be a true long distance cruising yacht should the opportunity arise. From the aft cockpit seating area to the country-style kitchen, the Hatteras M60 is a perfect yacht for entertaining no matter what the season.

Featured Hatteras Sportfishing Yacht Models

Hatteras GT70 Convertible

With the Hatteras Yachts brand being synonymous with durable, tournament-tested sportfishing yachts, it’s no surprise that the builder’s flagship boat is a 70-foot convertible. The 68GT, the previous flagship model, was built and delivered 51 times before the new GT70 was born. Everything about this vessel screams multi-day fishing excursion to the Canyons. From the oversized fighting cockpit to the larger engines with added fuel capacity of 2,140 gallons to the 5-stateroom layout, the GT70 has everything you need in a convertible sportfish to hunt big game. Despite her big 21-foot 4-inch beam, the Hatteras GT70 can easily break the 40-knot barrier when powered with the twin MTU 2600-HP diesel engines.   And with a gourmet galley and spacious salon, your guests on board that aren’t strapped into the fighting chair or behind the helm can relax inside without being tossed around. The Hatteras GT70 is truly a prime example of the legendary quality and performance that the Hatteras factory is known to produce.

Hatteras GT59 Convertible

With speeds breaking the 40-knot threshold and every feature designed for the passionate angler, the new Hatteras GT59 is already making waves on the Billfish tournament circuit. Twin CAT C-32A 1600HP diesel engines are the standard power choice and with the patented Hatteras hull design and construction, she performs outstandingly well. Owners enjoy the popular 3-stateroom, 2-head layout that allows an owner to enjoy cruising with his family or taking the team offshore for several days to hunt big game. 

Featured Hatteras/Cabo Express Boat Models

Hatteras GT45x Flybridge

When Hatteras Yachts absorbed the iconic Cabo Yachts brand, it was only a matter of time before the models would begin to integrate the best of both brands into a new style of sportfish. Hatteras did not disappoint the market by launching three versions of its GT45X including an express cruiser, an express sportfish version with flybridge, and a Sport Tower option as well. All models come standard with the popular twin Cat C-12A Diesel engines and either a one or two stateroom layout.   TheGT45x Flybridge version has top speeds in the mid-40’s and comes entirely rigged for any tournament featuring a state-of-the-art helm station with a full tower and plenty of easily accessible storage for tackle. You can even enjoy cooking your catch within minutes of it being in the water with the electric grill built in to the starboard bait and tackle center.   If you’re looking for a durable sportfish in the Cape May area, there is no better option than a new Hatteras GT45x with the expert guidance of United Yacht Sales.

Cabo Yachts 41 Express

The reception of the Cabo 41 Express has been more than welcoming after it made its debut at the recent Atlanta Boat Show and Miami International Boat Show. Anglers have been anticipating the return of the iconic Cabo brand for some time and several hulls of the 41 Express have already been sold. Standard power is twin Volvo D11 625HP engines and the fighting cockpit is loaded with fishing features like in-deck fish boxes and in-transom baitwell. The Cabo 41 even has mezzanine seating for guests who want to watch the action unfold.

What does Hatteras do differently with its hulls?

If a trip to the Hatteras factory is in your plans, make sure to ask to see the log test. Hatteras loves to show off how strong their full fiberglass hulls are and have developed a way to simulate potential damage to the hull of a Hatteras should it hit a log at 20 knots . While Hatteras Yachts may be heavier than their competition, they are also stronger and more durable. The hulls are built using the highest quality fiberglass possible combined with vinylester resin which has optimal strength, stiffness, and impact resistant qualities.

During the construction process, Hatteras also adds a coat of high-performance vinylester gelcoat to the entire hull that's below the waterline. This extra layer helps protect the hull against bottom blisters which is an extra step that many competitive boat builders simply don't take. Finally, the bottom of the hull gets an additional cost of epoxy resin as part of the anti-fouling system and for an added layer of protection.

Does Hatteras "vacuum-bag" their hulls like other yacht manufacturers?

The term vacuum-bagging is widely used in the marine industry with many builders vacuum-bagging the entire hull so it can be infused with varying qualities of resin. At Hatteras, there is a proprietary vinylester resin infusion technology that literally pulls the resin through the fiberglass instead of saturating it. The result is a hull that is lighter and stronger than if it had been fully bagged and infused.

Bob Arthur has been on the Hatteras team for over 40 years and has seen the entire evolution of the brand and all of its models.. His current title is Hatteras Manager of Structural and Composites Engineering. “We would rather do infusion and get the cleaner, clearer hull surface it produces than to use vacuum-bagging,” said Bob Arthur. “The infusion allows us to really dial in our resin-to-glass ratio for stiffness and strength. What a lot of people don’t know is that back in the ’80s, Hatteras actually helped to develop the very first vinylester gel coat for use in composite construction." It's team members like Bob who live and breathe the Hatteras product and their devotion to it, that makes it a very special boat. 

Hatteras has never been one to shy away from trying something new. The Hatteras GT65 Carolina will utilize a new hull and tunnel design. The team utilized a high-tech CFD Analysis (CFD stands for Computational Fluid Dynamics) to make sure they got the hull shape perfect for maneuverability and performance. Additionally, Hatteras will infuse the stringer system to the hull to make one single, solid part. Not only will this reduce weight and increase the hull strength, but it will also be the first in the marine industry.

What is the Hatteras System called Hatt/Con?

Hatt/Con is what the Hatteras team is calling their new innovation in total ship management. Hatt/Con was instituted on Hatteras models to offer owners and captains an easier way to control the yacht's navigation and other operating systems on board right from an easy-to-read dashboard. The consolidation of all of these functions into the Hatt/Con system means that the helm station is no longer populated with multiple modules and inconsistent operating systems. 

Hatt/Con allows the captain to operate systems on board such as lighting in various rooms, stream video, HVAC temperature regulation, and control all of the ships systems. Gauges for fuel tanks, fresh water, and grey/black water holding tanks are also featured. The Hatt/Con dashboard and ship management system can be downloaded right to your iPhone or iPad as an "app".

What kind of engines do Hatteras use in their yachts?

While Hatteras models on the brokerage market can vary depending on how far back you go, today's Hatteras Yachts are outfitted with Caterpillar marine engines. "CAT Marine Engines really do set the standard when it comes to performance and engine reliability," said Scott White, United Hatteras Brand Manager. "Caterpillar continues to innovate their products and the customer support that owners get is just incredible."

The Hatteras M90, for example, is equipped with twin CAT C-32A diesel engines. The C-32A are one of the most popular engine models that boat builders are using today. The M90 C-32A's are 1,622HP each pushing it to a top speed of 21 to 23 knots while cruising comfortably at 17 to 19 knots. The Hatteras M60 drops down to the C-18A 1,000HP engines, but owners can upgrade to the 1,136HP models.

On the Sportfish side where speed is everything, Hatteras chose to put the C-32A 1,622HP diesels in the new GT59. With that much power in a sub-60 foot boat, the GT59 can reach speeds in excess of 40 knots. The C-32A is also used in the flagship model of the GT-series, the GT70, except in the 1800HP versions. GT70 owners can cruise easily in the mid-30 knot range and top out above 40 knots.

What is the Hatteras boat called The Knit Wits?

The Knits Wits has become a bit of an icon for Hatteras Yachts and represents the very first Hatteras boat ever built. The 41-foot white and teal flybridge was fully restored at the Hatteras factory back in 2013 and has done several tours at major boat shows and events. The Knit Wits was originally launched in 1960 by Hatteras founder Willis Slane who was frustrated by the rough sea conditions. Slane then went on to hire Jack Hargrave to design the sportfish.

The success of The Knit Wits is often credited with shifting the industry from wood to fiberglass made boats as many boats at that time couldn't withstand the same conditions as the Knit Wits proved to do. The Knit Wits is now a piece of boating industry and Hatteras history as she spends her days in retirement on display at the Hatteras Yachts Sales Center in Fort Lauderdale.

What is the biggest yacht Hatteras makes?

The Hatteras 105 Raised Pilothouse Motor Yacht is currently the largest yacht that is offered in the Hatteras model line. The design for the Hatteras 105RPH was launched in May 2018 and was lauded as the largest resin-infused hull to date. This news came after the Hatteras 100 Motor Yacht was launched back in 2014. Perfect for entertaining large groups of people, there is a large great room that is located on the main deck of the yacht that is reminiscent of a ballroom. Owners even have the option to choose two distinctive layouts including either a luxurious master stateroom on the main deck or a very large galley if the purpose of the vessel is more for entertaining than long-distance cruising.

What's the best place to see a Hatteras Yacht?

Boat Shows are undoubtedly the best venue to climb on board and compare any of the Hatteras models. The three biggest boat shows for Hatteras and Cabo are the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show in November, the Miami Yacht Show in February, and the Palm Beach International Boat Show in March. The Fort Lauderdale Boat Show is generally the largest of the three shows and where Hatteras brings their full line-up. Whether you are considering a motor yacht or a sportfish, Hatteras will have a mixture of both types of yachts at each of these boat shows. It is also a great opportunity to meet with factory representatives who can answer specific questions about each model. Engine manufacturers are also sometimes in attendance as well to answer engine-specific questions about performance and after-sale service.

Can a new Hatteras Yacht be deducted as a business expense?

While United Yacht Sales does not offer any financial or legal advice, there were changes to the tax laws that allow owners to deduct the full expense of their Hatteras Yacht. While there are several stipulations, the yacht you purchase must be used for a business such as yacht charter or fishing charters. Even new equipment such as electronics can be fully deducted as long as they are added to the yacht in the same year as it was purchased. This new law covers the purchase of both new and used yachts for sale . We recommend that you consult with your certified accountant or lawyer regarding the new tax laws and if your Hatteras or Cabo Yacht purchase could indeed be written off.

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NEW BERN, N.C. (AP) — The world’s largest fishing and recreational boat builder on Thursday announced its acquisition of North Carolina-based Hatteras Yachts, with plans to upgrade Hatteras operations in New Bern as White River Marine Group seeks to boost saltwater vessel sales.

WRMG, a subsidiary of the company that operates Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s, aims to create 500 new jobs at its proposed Craven County operations by 2025, according to state Commerce Department officials.

“With Hatteras’ rich heritage of craftsmanship and access to some of the world’s best offshore angling, our aim is to help solidify New Bern as the world’s capital for saltwater gamefish and boat building,” Bass Pro Shops CEO Johnny Morris said in a news release from Gov. Roy Cooper’s office. Morris, Cooper, House Speaker Tim Moore and others joined White River Marine leaders for the announcement at Hatteras operations near the Neuse River.

WRMG, whose corporate parent is Missouri-based Bass Pro Groups, was looking for a coastal location to shift its saltwater manufacturing from the Midwest. The Ranger Saltwater and Mako saltwater boat brands will now be built in New Bern, according to Cooper’s news release.

WRMG’s inventory of boats also include names like Tracker and Nitro. It considered coastal locations in South Carolina, Florida and North Carolina. The information was disclosed at a public meeting earlier Thursday in which state officials agreed to award cash incentives of $5.4 million over 12 years if the company meets thresholds for job creation and investment. Details of a combined state and local incentives package exceeding $7.1 million helped seal the deal, according to discussion at the meeting.

The average wage for the new jobs are about $44,700 annually at the manufacturing plant, the Commerce Department said, which will require a $34 million investment as WRMG takes over the Hatteras Yachts brand.

The Hatteras Acquisition

Kusler Yachts provides insight and updates on the acquisition of Hatteras Yachts.

The White River Marine Group, part of the Bass Pro Shops family of brands, purchased Hatteras Yachts and facility in New Bern, North Carolina. The White River Marine Group is the world’s largest boating manufacturer. Its holdings include lines: Ranger, Mako, Tracker, and a number of others.

The White River Marine Group boasts a long history of boating innovation. Its origin lies in the 1978 when Johnny Morris introduced the Bass Tracker. The Tracker was bass fishing’s first every ready-to-fish boat, motor and trailer package.  The company’s platform and history of innovation are well suited to ushering in the next era of Hatteras.

Rendering of expanded Hatteras Yachts facility.

With the acquisition of Hatteras, the company plans a large investment in the New Bern, North Carolina facility. In addition to continuing to produce Hatteras Yachts, White River Marine Group plans to relocate its Mako and Ranger Saltwater manufacturing to North Carolina. The vision includes expansion of the Hatteras yard, both increasing capacity and providing a saltwater base of operations for White River Marine.

Johnny Morris on the Purchase

Johnny Morris, owner of Bass Pros Shops and White River Marine Group, announcing the purchase of Hatteras Yachts. 

The move brings clarity to the situation surrounding Hatteras Yachts. It also promises stability. Johnny Morris, the owner of Bass Pro Shops and the White River marine Group, described the acquisition with genuine passion and excitement.

“We are inspired by the many similarities between the pride and passion of the master boat builders from our home in the Ozarks and the legendary boat builders of North Carolina and the New Bern area in particular. Both share the same genuine commitment to American craftsmanship, with scores of family members working together and generations of highly experienced boat builders taking pride in what they do,” said Morris.

“We’re committed to support Hatteras in staying true to its roots as a legendary saltwater brand built by a passion for fishing while expanding our operations to better serve all those who love the sea,” explains Johnny Morris.

The acquisition, announced on Thursday May 20, 2021, was a well-guarded secret. The announcement showcased White River Marine Group’s excitement and incredible profile. In attendance were not only Johnny Morris and the executives from WRMG, but also North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper and Nascar legend Richard Childress and Daytona 500 winner Austin Dillon.

The Tracker car made an appearance (and did an awesome burn out) on the floor of the Hatteras plant. 

Keeping You Up to Date

Kusler Yachts maintains deep connections with the Hatteras brand and in its developments. We’re committed to keeping Hatteras owners (current and prospective) up to date as the situation moves forward.

Why Buy from Kusler Yachts? We are transforming what you can expect from a yacht brokerage.

The initial reaction from the sportfishing industry has been overwhelmingly positive. Morris announced sweeping donations to conservation groups in North Carolina and those dedicated to offshore fishing.

This is an exciting time for Hatteras and those who love the brand.

For more information, see the complete press release, 210520 WRMG Hatteras release – FINAL (1)

Viking 60: Ready to Go

2007 hatteras 68: upgraded and ready.

About Cabo Yachts

Cabo yachts for sale.

Before Cabo Yachts There Was Pacific Seacraft

To follow Cabo Yachts history, there are two important names in the equation: Mike Howarth and Henry Mohrschladt. The two boaters met while working at Pacific Trawler and Islander Yachts in California sometime back in the 1970s and discovered that they had very compatible boat-building and business skills, Howarth the hands-on builder and Mohrschladt in boat design, marketing, and business acumen.

Their combined maritime passion blossomed into the two co-founding their boat manufacturing company, Pacific Seacraft. Fortune Magazine described the boat company as building one of the top 100 products in the world. Howarth and Mohrschladt gained respect with each sailboat they built, beginning with the Pacific Seacraft 25 until they sold the Pacific Seacraft brand in 1989.

From Sailboats to Sportfishers

But the two had a new mission in mind and that plan came to fruition a year later with the construction of the first Cabo. Cabo Yachts began in 1990 and earned a healthy reputation in the sportfishing world right from the start with the 35-foot Cabo Flybridge Convertible.

This success continued with other sturdy sportfishing boats ranging from 36 to 52 feet in a variety of convertible, flybridge, and express models.

A Brunswick Buyout, And Others

Cabo continued building high-quality, inboard, express-style fishing boats until Howarth and Mohrschladt sold their enterprise to the Brunswick Corporation based in Lake Forest, Illinois, and put Cabo in the hands of Hatteras Yachts ’ parent company in 2006.

It was in 2010 that Cabo Yachts production, formerly in Adelanto, California, moved to New Bern, North Carolina where Brunswick consolidated operations for Hatteras Yachts and Cabo Yachts. New Bern has been the home-base for Hatteras since the first boat model was built in 1959 and the company continues to deliver yachts from 60 to 100 feet and sportfishing convertible yachts from 54 to 77 feet.

Eventually, the business equation changed again when Versa Capital Management, a private equity firm in Philadelphia, bought the Hatteras/Cabo sportfishing boat and yacht building companies in 2013.

Production of the Cabo line stopped in 2013 with the five final Cabo hulls designed by Michael Peters Yacht Design of Sarasota, Florida. But another renaissance came with the team of Howarth and his son, Barrett Howarth, who again worked with Michael Peters to create a new venture, Mag Bay boats, in 2014.

Previously owned Cabo Yachts continue to hold value and importance for the serious angler. A resurgence in 2019 saw the first new Cabo model manufactured in six years when the Cabo 41 hit the docks.

Popular Cabo Yachts Models

• Cabo 52 Express

The Cabo Yachts 52 Express Yacht meets the needs of the sport fisherman who seeks optimum performance. The ride is comfortable with weight aft for a balanced ride. Navigation is smooth with high visibility available from the design of the station and the comfortable helm chair and companion seat. Staterooms, a fully equipped galley, and a spacious salon include a sound system and plenty of room for guests. Fishing features include tackle storage, a bait preparation center, insulated fish boxes, and a molded bait tank. 

• Cabo 52 Convertible
• Cabo 48 Convertible
• Cabo 47-48 Flybridge
• Cabo 47 Convertible
• Cabo 45 Express
• Cabo 43 Convertible
• Cabo 43 Flybridge

The first Cabo built in years left the Hatteras/Cabo Yachts factory in New Bern, North Carolina bound for its Miami Yacht Show debut in 2019. The Cabo 41 is equipped with twin 626hp Volvo D11 engines and lots of storage onboard. The design comes complete with mezzanine seating above the cockpit, an open helm deck, a queen stateroom, head, full galley, salon, and second berth option in the dining settee to sleep four on board. With a three-foot five-inch draft and capacity for 550 gallons of fuel and 95 gallons of water, this hearty boat meets the needs of the most serious fishermen or a family headed for a weekend excursion. Upgrades are available including power boosts with the Volvo 670hp or 725hp, or the Cummins QSM11 engine. Other custom options include the addition of the Seakeeper 6 stabilization system, custom towers, and outriggers built by Hatteras partner Carolina Custom Towers.

• Cabo 40 Convertible
• Cabo 40 Flybridge
• Cabo 40 Express
• Cabo 38 Convertible
• Cabo 35 Express
• Cabo 35 Flybridge
• Cabo 35 Convertible
• Cabo 32 Express
• Cabo 31 Express

Available Used Cabo Yachts for Sale

Search cabo yachts by price, search cabo yachts by length, search cabo yachts by year.

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About Sam's Marine

Sam's Marine has provided genuine Hatteras parts for over a quarter century. And Sam's now carries Cabo Yacht parts as well. Read More

Sam’s Marine now stocks genuine Cabo Yacht parts

Ner Bern, NC – 2011 Sam’s Marine now carries a full line of parts for all Cabo Yacht models.

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GT 65 Carolina

DESIGNED FOR SPEED. BUILT FOR BATTLE.

Hatteras has conceived the GT59 with an acute understanding of tournament life in mind. The design team for this sleek convertible has brought together 40+ knot top-end speed, outstanding seakeeping ability and the most comfortable ride in its class. The GT59 comes tournament-ready with integrated rigging and storage bow to stern. It’s also built to wow inside, with a remarkably spacious 3-stateroom / 2-head arrangement or choice of optional tackle center or third head.

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