When it comes to purchasing a new center console or high-performance boat, Canada isn’t typically the initial choice for most buyers. However, a Canadian boat manufacturer is striving to change that by delivering high-performance luxury watercraft.
Founded in 2015, Carbon Marine offers three models ranging from 24 to 38 feet. The company has teamed up with Jaguar Marine to assist in design and construction. We recently spoke with Carbon Marine CEO Frank Gairdner to discuss his company.
What is it like to manufacture high-performance boats in Canada?
Canada has been an incredibly supportive environment for launching a high-performance and luxury boat manufacturing business. We have a solid history of performance boating, and many people are thrilled to have a boat builder nearby. There’s no shortage of enthusiastic individuals, skilled workers, and stunning waterways.
It’s also convenient that our boating seasons align well with those in South Florida. As our Ontario season concludes, Florida’s begins. Therefore, being in Ontario allows us to easily access the south to prolong our sales and marketing opportunities throughout the year.
Who tends to purchase your models?
Our clients are those who appreciate the benefits that advanced composites offer. They recognize the power-to-weight advantages of carbon fiber and seek an on-water experience akin to that of a supercar. These buyers often own supercars and yachts and desire the excitement of performance paired with luxury comfort.
Our initial customers are in the Ontario area, and we’ve partnered with Pfaff Automotive, which sells supercars like Pagani and McLaren. We are gaining traction in Florida, where we will participate in key shows to maintain interest.
Can you elaborate on Carbon Marine’s creation of the first fully exposed carbon-fiber production hull?
Carbon Marine takes pride in being the first to market exposed carbon hulls. As carbon-fiber grows in popularity, many manufacturers are promoting its use; however, we remain unique in constructing from the internal structure—stringers and bulkheads—to the visible finishing layer.
How do your models stand out from other offerings on the market?
We focus on constructing boats using advanced composites, employing technology similar to that found in aerospace manufacturing. All processes use high-grade epoxy, with no fiberglass or marine plywood layers. The differences are evident in the ride quality and appearance, with the experience said to challenge conventional boating expectations.
The lightweight and extremely stiff hulls lead to responsive handling and enhanced performance in rough waters. Our boats have drawn comparisons to supercars on water, further emphasized by their exposed carbon fiber aesthetics.
Carbon Marine produces sport boats and center consoles. How many models are currently in production?
We create custom boats upon request. We presently offer three unique models that can all be tailored to individual preferences. No two boats will ever be identical. The three models include our 240, 280, and 380, each designed around a proven offshore racing hull.
The 240 and 380 utilize Pantera Racing hulls, and we have crafted new, modernized decks for them. We are also collaborating with Jaguar Marine, who is assisting us with technical developments in design and construction. As your audience may know, they have a rich racing background.
The 240 is a five-seater sit-down model, currently designed for inboard power, but outboards will also be offered. The 280 and 380 are center console models powered by outboards.
What is the price and base power for the 28-foot model?
Each build is custom, so there is a price range. A baseline figure would be approximately $390,000 CA ($291,000 US), but it can significantly increase depending on the power and options selected by the customer.
Can you share a bit about your background and the founding of Carbon Marine?
Cam Heaps established Carbon Marine in 2015, initiating hull one’s construction with Al Barrie. A passionate offshore boating enthusiast, Cam aimed to demonstrate the performance benefits of carbon fiber in powerboats. Hull one was completed in 2016, showcasing the performance and efficiency advantages of using carbon fiber as a construction material.
Shortly afterward, Frank Gairdner partnered with Cam to develop the business side. We now have an operational production facility, a product line featuring some of the world’s most renowned racing hulls, and strong local and global partnerships.
For more information about Carbon Marine, visit carbonmarine.ca.