Gunboat, manufacturer of high-end racing and cruising catamarans, announced the opening of its new boatyard in Wanchese, North Carolina. The company will employ 71 people at the new 30,000 square foot facility, from which it will be able to haul, launch, sea trial and service boats year round. Initially, Gunboat will use the new facility to produce Gunboat 55s, Pure Yachting R.I.B.s and custom projects such as the Gunboat 78. This is especially great news for American Gunboat sailors like Lloyd Thornburg, who recently finished the ARC on his Gunboat 66, Phaedo.
“We are extremely happy that an established boat company like Gunboat is coming to Dare County,” said North Carolina Sen. Stan White. “The creation of 71 jobs is a godsend to an area that has been hit hard by the recession. Gunboat produces high-end sailing catamarans that represent a new market niche for Dare County and the region.”
Gunboat is the sister company of Gunboat International, which is headquartered in Rhode Island. Together, the two shipyards hope to increase U.S.-based production and better support a growing demand for Gunboats.
