Boating Industry

Industry mourns loss of former Crusiers Yachts owner K.C. Stock

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It is with a heavy heart that Cruisers Yachts has announced the death of its longtime owner Kenneth Charles (K.C.) Stock, who passed away on November 28, 2022. Born April 6th, 1938 in Oconto, Wis.  K.C. from a young age had a knack as an entrepreneur. He quickly progressed in business to buy his first company, a contractor yard, in 1971 and renamed it Stock Lumber, growing it to 11 yards across Wisconsin and Minnesota. 

Following his passion for the lumber business and the entrepreneurial spirit, he bought his hometown boat company, Cruisers Yachts. Growing up in Oconto, it was important to K.C. that the town continued to thrive and that meant keeping jobs local. He invested in the company and the Oconto community to see it flourish. Mark Pedersen, President of Cruisers Yachts, said, “The one statement that best describes K.C., is his love and commitment to the employees at Cruisers Yachts. Anytime he would visit, he would first ask how many team members were working and then walked the floor to visit with them.”  One of K.C.’s favorite quotes “You’re only as good as the people you surround yourself with.” 

With K.C.’s support for over 28 years, Cruisers Yachts has enjoyed tremendous growth and is now known as one of the world’s premier manufacturers of premium yachts ranging from 33 to 60 feet. Named after his father, the Cantius series was born with the launch of the 48 Cantius in 2011. Since then, ten models, including the largest in the lineup, the 60 Cantius, have been badged with his father’s name. In 2019, Cruisers Yachts unveiled the GLS series, named after his loving wife Georgia Louise Stock. The GLS series comprises of four models, ranging from 34 to 50 feet.  

Wanting to continue the company’s growth, KCS International, Inc., parent company of Cruisers Yachts, significantly expanded its manufacturing and production capacity with the acquisition of the nearby Pulaski, Wisconsin facility that formerly built Carver and Marquis brand yachts.  Shortly after, K.C. was looking for a new successor that would keep Cruisers Yachts rooted in Wisconsin. In May of 2021, K.C. sold the company to MarineMax, Inc., the world’s largest recreational boat and yacht retailer with the promise to keep Cruisers Yachts, the employees, and the community thriving. 

K.C. always believed in giving back to the community. One of his greatest achievements was starting the K.C. Stock Foundation to help those in need.  He took great pride in making a positive difference in other people’s lives.  His foundation made the lead gift to start the Children’s Hospital in Northeastern Wisconsin at St. Vincent Hospital in Green Bay.  Even in death, he encourages others to donate to one of his favorite charities, the HSHS St. Vincent’s Foundation – https://giving.hshs.org/svsm/Donate . This provides Christmas presents to all the children in the Pediatric Oncology Unit. K.C. loved to do this and bring families a bit of joy and happiness during the holiday season. 

From all of us at Cruisers Yachts, our thoughts and prayers go out to the family.  K.C. will be greatly missed.

K.C. Stock Full Obituary: https://www.greenbaypressgazette.com/obituaries/wis377566 . 

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Cruisers Yachts - Cantius vs GLS

Strong's Marine

What Cruisers Yacht is best for me? 

Cruisers Yachts crafts their vessels to cater to a diverse range of boaters, ensuring that there is a fit for every individual. The Cantius series and the GLS series offer a stylish yet comfortable riding experience however, there are some key differences to consider when choosing the model that is best for you.

About the Cruisers Yacht Cantius series

Debuting in 2011, the Cantius series has been growing ever since. This series solidifies Cruisers Yachts dedication to designing and building yachts that are suitable for entertaining while also being comfortable and safe. The Cantius line currently ranges from the 39 EC up to the 60 Fly.

The Cantius models are known for their exceptional accommodations, spaciousness and ergonomics that surpass even those of competitors. These luxurious interiors, combined with impeccable engineering, unparalleled craftsmanship, and an unmatched riding experience, have consistently earned the Cantius models a special place in the hearts of experienced boaters for many years.

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About Cruisers Yachts GLS Series

The GLS series from Cruisers Yachts is leading the way in terms of design and performance in the mid-sized luxury yacht market, setting a new standard for excellence. The GLS series offers bowriders ranging from 34 to 50 feet, that provide an exhilarating ride on the water. In addition to being a top choice for entertainment, the GLS series offers generous interior space and abundant seating options on both the bow and stern.

The GLS Series showcases an innovative feature known as beach doors, which are foldout sections of their gunnels that dramatically expand the size of their swim platforms and create a seamless connection to the water. This extraordinary addition significantly enhances the boat's entertainment capabilities, making it the ultimate platform for hosting memorable gatherings.

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Cantius Motor Yacht vs GLS Bow Rider

The Cantius series are a line of luxury motor yachts with accommodation's for weekend trips and extended travels.  With plenty of amenities on board including comfortable lounge seating, ample storage, beautiful primary cabin and VIP staterooms. The Cantius line is perfect for those seeking a stylish cruiser that offers a luxurious and relaxing experience. With a focus on comfort for extended stays, the Cantius series makes a bold statement on the water in terms of style and sophistication.

While both the Cantius line and the GLS line are both visually beautiful, they cater to a different lifestyle.  The Cruisers Yachts GLS Series is geared towards those seeking a sporty yet luxurious appearance. Compared the the Canitus Series, the GLS line offers bowriders for those seeking a more adventurous experience. The GLS model also comes equipped with an open swim platform, ample seating and entertaining features to hosts guest. The GLS series is ideal for those looking to enjoy water sports, stopping for a swim, or heading over to a waterfront restaurant. 

One notable distinction between these two lines lies in their designs. The Cantius line, being a Motor Yacht, is specifically crafted for extended stays, as it offers ample living spaces for days of cruising on the water. The GLS line consists of a series of bow riders that provide ample recreational space, perfect for shorter outings and a fun-filled day on the water.  While both models are beautiful in their own way, they have stylistic differences that align with different lifestyles. How you choose to enjoy your time on the water will be the determining factor. What it comes down to is, are you looking for an on water weekend getaway or a day full of adventure?

For a detailed look at the ideal size of the Cantius or GLS that suits your needs perfectly, explore our listings below.

Cantius Line

Cruisers 50 Cantius Strongs Marine

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The 55 FLY from Cruisers Yachts

Renowned for their GLS and Cantius series offering choices for bowriders and motor yachts, Cruisers Yachts has now unveiled a Flybridge series that is set to captivate...

About Cruisers Yachts

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Cruisers Yachts is Heading to Palm Beach

Attendees can look forward to exploring an impressive array of Cruisers Yachts' models, each meticulously designed to deliver unparalleled comfort, performance, and style on the water. Among the highlights of the show will be providing more details on their highly anticipated new model, the 55 FLY . This innovative addition to the Cruisers Yachts lineup promises to redefine luxury and sophistication in the Flybridge yacht segment.

Rendering of the new 55 Fly

Devon Palmer, Cruisers Yachts Senior Industrial Designer, comments, "We can't wait to attend this year's show and share more details about the 55 FLY. The 55 FLY is a step into the future for Cruisers Yachts, a vision that offers a best-in-class combination of flybridge space, water connectivity, and livability. Our goal was to offer new levels of water connection on the transom without sacrificing any living space, so we innovated an amazing extending swim platform and fold-down transom lounge. This helped us create an amazing water-level terrace perfect for swimming, lounging, or dining. Renowned Superyacht Designer Luiz DeBasto designed the interior spaces and challenged our team at Cruisers to elevate our construction techniques. The result is calm and stunning spaces complemented by massive windows that offer a greater connection to the water."

Experience the epitome of boating excellence at the Palm Beach International Boat Show—an event set to captivate both boaters and industry experts. Discover the allure of Cruisers Yachts at Ramp 5, nestled in the water. For further insights into Cruisers Yachts' presence at the Palm Beach International Boat Show, explore our Palm Beach International Boat Show event page .

Media members are welcome to make appointments with Matt VanGrunsven to speak with factory representatives and executives to talk about the current Cruisers Yachts lineup, hear the vision of the brand, and learn more about their upcoming model, the 55 FLY coming in 2024.

The Cantius Series

Two Cruisers Yachts Cantius Boats on water

The GLS Series

Two Cruisers Yachts GLS boats on water

IMAGES

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  3. Experience Flybridge & Cantius Yachts

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  4. Cruisers Yachts 60 Cantius

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  6. New Cruisers Yachts 54 Cantius Flybridge

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  1. Cruisers Yachts

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    Oconto, WI (April 10, 2024)— Cruisers Yachts, a leading luxury yacht manufacturer, is thrilled to announce its expansion into the Lake of the Ozarks area through collaboration with MarineMax

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  9. About Us

    Then in In 2015, Cruisers Yachts unveiled its largest yacht by introducing the 60 Cantius. That following year, they introduced the 60 Fly, 54 Cantius, and 54. Since then, we've continued to add new models with new innovation each year. The 46 Cantius launched in 2018 as well as the Mercury outboard on the 338. The 38 GLS debuted in 2019, the ...

  10. Cruisers Yachts Careers

    Passion That Creates. Cruisers Yachts is fueled by the energy of its people. For over 70 years we have been building what we feel are the best boats in the world, and we are always looking for inspired and dedicated people to join the team to keep Cruisers Yachts at the very front of the boatbuilding pack. Apply online today!

  11. Explore Cruisers Yachts

    With over 600,000 square feet of facilities, plus our own test tank, Cruisers Yachts guarantees products manufactured with unmatched expertise and attention to detail. We have the capacity to build boats up to 73-feet length overall, and in nearly any style. Whether you desire the comfort and luxury of our much-loved Cantius line, or the ...

  12. About Cruisers Yachts

    Cruisers Yachts have a great reputation as American made vessels providing high quality yachts to not only our clients but our team at Strong's Marine. Call Strong's Yachts at (631)709-1108 to discuss how we can find a new or preowned yacht that suits your lifestyle!

  13. CRUISERS YACHTS Careers and Employment

    You can browse through all 9 jobs CRUISERS YACHTS has to offer. Job Card. Full-time. Trimmer - - Assembly. Pulaski, WI. $17.90 - $19.50 an hour. Easily apply. 9 days ago. View job.

  14. MarineMax acquires Cruisers Yachts

    Adam Quandt May 6, 2021. MarineMax, Inc. announced the acquisition of KCS International, Inc., better known as Cruisers Yachts, headquartered in Oconto, Wis. Cruisers Yachts (Cruisers) is recognized as a premier manufacturer of premium yachts, producing models from 33- to 60-feet. Cruisers, due to demand, recently announced the expansion of ...

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    Cruisers Yachts are equipped with luxurious amenities to enhance comfort and convenience while onboard. This can include features such as upscale furnishings, state-of-the-art entertainment systems, and gourmet summer kitchens. Renowned for our luxurious interiors and amenities, providing a comfortable and opulent onboard experience.

  17. Industry mourns loss of former Crusiers Yachts owner K.C. Stock

    It is with a heavy heart that Cruisers Yachts has announced the death of its longtime owner Kenneth Charles (K.C.) Stock, who passed away on November 28, 2022. Born April 6th, 1938 in Oconto, Wis. K.C. from a young age had a knack as an entrepreneur. He quickly progressed in business to buy his first company, a contractor yard, in 1971 and renamed it Stock Lumber, growing it to 11 yards across ...

  18. Cruiser Yachts expanding Pulaski plant, adding jobs

    Cruisers Yachts announced a 56,000-square-foot expansion to its Pulaski facility with a completion date of January. Alliance Construction & Design, Wrightstown, is the general contractor. "One of our core values is to look to the long term, and this expansion project is a testament to that belief," said Mark Pedersen, resident of Cruisers Yachts.

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  20. Cruisers Yachts

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