Sealegs Announces Appointment of Three New U.S. Dealerships

Sealegs, the world’s largest manufacturer of amphibious boats, announces the appointment of three new U.S. dealerships: Irish Boat Shop, Firematic Supply Company and Churchville Fire Equipment. The new dealers were signed on the heels of a trifecta of Sealegs’ successes: the production of its 600th amphibious boat, the launch of its first international showroom in Hingham, Massachusetts, and continued sales momentum from the Newport International Boat Show.

“Six years ago amphibious boating was just a dream,” said Co-Founder David McKee-Wright. “Since then we have pioneered a new segment in the international marine industry, manufactured our 600th boat and delivered product to over 30 countries.”

New Dealers, New Distribution

With three new dealers signed, access to Sealegs’ craft is growing at a rapid rate. Operating on the shore of Lake Michigan, Irish Boat Shop recently sold and launched its first 6.1m RIB.

“There is tremendous potential for growth in the Lake Michigan area,” said Michael Esposito, president, Irish Boat Shop. “Sealegs is the perfect vessel for the Lake Michigan lifestyle. Its versatility and ease of use have many families enjoying and exploring the lake in a whole different way.”

Firematic is celebrating its 50th year of operation in the state of NY and Sealegs’ Amphibious Search and Rescue Craft is part of its premium service offering. This step demonstrates Firematic’s commitment to continuously innovate and deliver world-class solutions for their municipal and commercial customers. Firematic Supply is privately held and has a national and international dealer network. It’s headquartered in East Yaphank, NY and has additional locations in the northeastern United States.

According to Pete Hanratty, president at Firematic, demand for Sealegs is at an all-time high following the aftermath of Hurricane Irene. “We are on call with a crew for the Suffolk County Fire Rescue emergency services. We also have a list of seven departments that have requested to utilize a Sealegs craft,” said Hanratty.

Sealegs at The Newport International Boat Show

Showcasing its newest 7.1m RIB, Sealegs was an active part of the Newport International Boat Show this September. The 7.1m RIB was selected as the official tender to transfer VIPs between the Newport boat show and the International Yacht Restoration School where Morris Yachts featured on-water demonstrations with their M-class fleet of sailboats. Also debuted at the show was Sealegs’ 48-foot mobile showroom — a fully equipped vehicle that will travel throughout the country this winter, popping up at numerous events and hosting the Sealegs’ Experience.

Scott Dyer, North American sales manager, was very encouraged by the show buzz surrounding Sealegs. “This is a really exciting time for Sealegs,” remarked Dyer. “We’re gaining a strong foothold throughout the continent and have had more demand and follow up sales than we’ve ever had at any show in the past. We hope to build upon this momentum in Florida and the Caribbean where our sales traditionally increase during the winter months.”

Sealegs is the Official Marine Partner of the All Blacks, and the world’s largest manufacturer of amphibious marine craft. The uniquely New Zealand invention can seamlessly transition from land to water so you can drive straight into the sea and back again. Global reports reflect Sealegs owners and operators utilize their craft five times more often than a standard boat.

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Source: sealegs, September 30, 2011