One of Australia's oldest production yacht importers has changed its name to more accurately reflect the products on offer. Effective from October 17, US Yachts will be known as Performance Cruising Yachts.
Explaining the name change, former Olympian and Managing Director of the company, Matt Hayes, said it was something he had been pondering for some time.
“The US Yachts name made sense when our only brand was the American-manufactured Marlow Hunter,” Hayes said. “But we have since added Elan from Slovenia and Salona from Croatia, both manufacturers of high-quality performance cruising yachts, so the new name is much more relevant.”
While sales of Hunter yachts remain strong, Hayes says there is a clear divide among buyers.
“Our Hunter buyers are people who like the traditional look. The Elan Impression range appeals to people who like a more contemporary style, while Salona is an excellent cross-over brand, equally at home racing on the harbour or cruising offshore.”
Combined with sister company Sydney-By-Sail, which offers charters, yacht share and accredited learn-to-sail courses, Hayes says he feels the Darling Harbour based company covers all bases.
“We can teach people to sail, right up to international skipper level, send them off on charters to expand their sailing skills, and then sell them either a share in a new yacht or the whole thing, with a wide choice of brands and sizes.
“Our aim was always to be a one-stop shop and I think we've now achieved that. Under the new name of Performance Cruising Yachts, we think we'll be able to get the message across more easily and consistently,” Hayes concluded.
For more information contact Matt Hayes on (02) 9281 4422.
