Vision Marine Technologies Acquires Nautical Ventures Group
Electric boatbuilder and outboard manufacturer Vision Marine Technologies has acquired Nautical Ventures Group, a Florida-based recreational boat dealership, marina, and service provider.
Canada-headquartered Vision Marine describes the transaction as the creation of “North America’s first integrated electric boat propulsion and dealership company.” The company’s E-Motion high-voltage electric powertrain will now be supported by Nautical Ventures’ network of nine high-volume retail locations across Florida, which include two flagship waterfront showrooms.
The boatbuilder had previously formed a partnership with Nautical Ventures Group as its sole and exclusive distributor of the recyclable rotomolded plastic boat for the state of Florida and a non-exclusive distributor dealership agreement for the US.
“This acquisition marks a pivotal step in Vision Marine’s strategy to scale and compete at the highest level of the global boating industry,” says Alexandre Mongeon, CEO of Vision Marine. “The market is entering a new phase — one defined by innovation in propulsion, increasing demand for integrated solutions, and rising expectations from both OEMs and consumers.
“By joining forces with Nautical Ventures, we gain immediate access to a proven retail and service network, allowing us to accelerate the rollout of next-generation marine technology. [Nautical Ventures’ founder and CEO] Roger Moore has been a mentor and friend for over a decade, and I am honored to carry forward this shared vision under one banner.”
Moore adds: “Nautical Ventures has always focused on bringing the best products and experiences to boaters. Our partnership with Vision Marine allows us to stay true to that mission while expanding what’s possible. Electric propulsion is no longer a future concept — it’s here, and it’s ready.”
Nautical Ventures offers boats from brands including Axopar, Beneteau, Brabus, Edgewater, Flite, Highfield, Hobie, Mercury, NorthStar, Seabob, Smokercraft, Suzuki, Tohatsu, Wellcraft, and Yamaha. Its customer base ranges from high-performance boaters and luxury yacht owners to resort fleets. The dealership also maintains a strong presence at major US boat shows.
The acquisition provides Vision Marine with direct-to-consumer sales capability and installation support for its E-Motion systems across a wider range of platforms, including 22 completed high-voltage deployments and additional brands sold through Nautical Ventures. Vision Marine will also expand its revenue streams with the addition of dealership sales, rentals, parts, and aftermarket services.
With the global recreational electric boat market forecast to exceed US$2.5bn by 2030 and a projected CAGR of over 18 per cent, Vision Marine says the combined entity intends to pursue a nationwide rollout of integrated electric boats and services across OEM and consumer channels.
Integration of Nautical Ventures’ operations is in progress. The acquisition was funded through a mix of cash, a seller’s note, and up to 255,102 shares of Vision Marine common stock. ThinkEquity advised Vision Marine on the transaction.
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