Century Acquires Vanquish Boats

Century Boats, the Zephyrhills, Fla.-based, builder, said it acquired Vanquish Boats of Newport, R.I., and plans to rebrand Vanquish models and relocate production to the Sunshine State.

Private equity firm Sorfam Capital in April acquired Century Boats’ parent company, All Craft Marine, for an undisclosed amount.

Vanquish models will be rebranded as Century Coronado, the name of popular post-war boats Century built. However, the Doug Zurn-designed line of center consoles, dual consoles and runabouts will retain their distinctive styling.

Vanquish production will moved to Century’s primary boatbuilding plant in Zephyrhills. Century says it plans to increase production, as well as dealer distribution and the service network for the Coronado line.

Former Vanquish owner Morgan Huntley will become COO of Century Boats, with a focus on production and product development.

“Becoming a part of Century Boats is the best next step, as they have the experience, production capability and legacy brand recognition that will ensure more boating families will be able to experience and enjoy these amazing boats, ” Huntley said in a press release.

Century Boats CEO Lloyd R. “Skip” Sorenson, who also leads Sorfam Capital, sees the acquisition as a mutually beneficial expansion of both brands.

“Vanquish is known for producing stunning designs in the New England tradition, rooted in timeless quality and craftsmanship. … The decision to rebrand as Century Coronado is in recognition of the acclaimed line of Century Boats produced through the mid-20th century,” Sorenson said.