Highfield Boats USA names new Dealer Partner in Key West

Highfield Boats USA names new Dealer Partner in Key West © Highfield Boats

Highfield Boats USA, the leading supplier of rigid inflatable boats (RIBS) in America with nearly a 30-percent market share, expanded its U.S. sales network by an unprecedented 15 dealers in 2024 to support growing domestic demand for its outboard- and jet-powered RIBS. The latest dealer partner appointed to represent the Highfield Boats brand is Sea Native Boat Sales in Key West, Florida.

Sea Native is a sister business to Sail Away catamaran sales and charter, which has been in operation since 2010. Sea Native and Sail Away are located in the Perry Marina on Stock Island, the largest wet-slip marina in the Florida Keys, capable of berthing vessels up to 300 feet plus.

"Almost every one of the catamarans we sell has a tender, so this was a natural progression for our business to move in. We have always seen the smaller RIBS as essential to the cruising lifestyle, but we now realize that RIBS are ideal vessels no matter what your boating interest may be. For example, many of the larger RIBS have the ability to take numerous friends out fishing or exploring waterways on day trips. RIBS provide an incredibly smooth and safe ride in rough seas - which is one reason they are used by the government and military. Financially, RIBS tend to be a better value when compared to similar-sized vessels, and they are lighter weight, which increases their fuel efficiency," said Amy Michaud of Sea Native.

"Highfield is a very well-respected brand known worldwide for its quality RIBS," Michaud continued. "The range of sizes, models and propulsion options Highfield offers means it has a RIB for every need. We also foresee the ability to charter them or to utilize them as an essential business on the water. The possibilities are endless!"

"Expanding our U.S. dealer network has been a key part of our business strategy for 2024, along with starting up domestic RIB production at our factory in Cadillac, Michigan, and partnering with innovative engine companies like BRP, Flux Marine, Ilmor and Zero Jet to diversify our model range. We are delighted to welcome the team at Sea Native, with their unique experience and insights into the Florida Keys boating and sailing markets, to the Highfield dealer network," said Christophe Lavigne, president, Highfield Boats USA.

In 2024, Highfield Boats made substantial improvements to its line of consumer and professional RIBS ranging from 6' to 30', enhancing both comfort and utility, and introduced electric-powered RIBs developed in partnership with Flux Marine, Ilmor and Zero Jet. Highfield also launched the new Velox 420 powered by the proven 90-hp BRP Rotax jet drive.

"The new Highfield Velox 420 is completely sold out as of this date and we are selling bookings now into spring delivery," Lavigne said, adding, "We maintained sales level to 2023 at the 2024 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show and Annapolis Sailboat Show, increased revenue and gained market share for Highfield, all despite a depressed domestic boating market. With the support of our U.S. dealer network, we look forward to achieving even bigger results in 2025."

For more information about Highfield Boats, please visit www.highfieldboats.com.