Cobia and Monterey report FLIBS sales increases

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Cobia Boat Co. and Monterey Boats both reported record sales at this year’s Ft. Lauderdale International Boat Show.

The show, which ended in late October, delivered a triple-digit percent sales increase over previous years for Cobia, according to a recent statement from the boat builder.

Cobia attributed the increase in part to the introduction of five new models at the show. Two new models in particular — the 256 CC and 256 Express — contributed significantly to the company’s strong sales this year. Cobia also introduced the new 206 CC, 216 CC and 236 CC.

“In the last year we have upgraded or redesigned the entire Cobia Boat line and the difference was really apparent to consumers and industry insiders at the show,” said Scott Deal, president and CEO of Cobia Boat Co. “Our new 256 Express was a big hit because it offers world class features and quality in an affordable package. Even more exciting is that the new product train is just leaving the station. We have a new 296 CC in process that will be premiered at the Miami show and are already working on more models for next year.”

Deal believes the new models will help to carry the momentum into the winter boat shows and is very optimistic about the 2008 model year.

Cobia Boats are produced by Maverick Boat Co., Inc., the manufacturer and marketer of the Maverick, Hewes and Pathfinder saltwater fishing boats.

Monterey Boats’ 2007 Fort Lauderdale show produced the highest sales volume of any show in recent years for the company, it reported in a statement today.

Monterey, which introduced five new boats for the 2008 model year, debuted its newest flagship – the 400 Sport Yacht with Volvo Penta IPS propulsion system – at a press conference on the show’s opening day.

“Our booth enjoyed high traffic levels of qualified buyers throughout the show,” said Monterey Co-Chairman Charles Marshall. “With all of our exciting new models on display, including the debut of our new flagship, our knowledgeable sales people were taking orders the entire show, especially multiple orders for the 400SY. We also received many orders for all of our large cruisers and sport yachts.”

Monterey Boats, an independent boat manufacturer, builds more than 22 boat models, including sport boats, deck boats, sport yachts and cruisers.

• For more of the latest news, click here.