Originally started by Jimmy and Tommy Hancock in 1988, SEA PRO began as an entry level saltwater fishing boat manufacturer. In the mid 1990s Sea Pro adopted the “Demand More” slogan as its guiding philosophy of giving the consumer more for their money than any other brand in the saltwater market. From the late 1990s to the early 2000s SEA PRO evolved from an entry level brand to a mid-tier industry powerhouse and by the year 2000 it led the industry in total units sold based on retail registrations.
In July 2004 SEA PRO was approached by Brunswick Corporation and although the brothers were not actively seeking to sell the company, a deal was struck and the acquisition took place on December 31, 2004. Both brothers left the company to pursue other interests within a few months. From 2005 to 2008 sales dramatically decreased and in 2009 Brunswick closed the company and liquidated all assets.
Though declining several offers from some key players to re-enter the marine industry in the years following the sale of SEA PRO, Jimmy Hancock finally felt the calling to jump back in the boat building business in January of 2014 when he along with Tidewater Boats founder Preston Wrenn, formulated a business plan to resurrect the brand. “I wasn’t going to get back in the boat business just for the heck of it.” Jimmy says, “I needed to feel that passion again, like we would be able to bring some new ideas to the market and hopefully raise the bar once again.” Production is now underway in their newly renovated 200,000 sq.ft. facility located in Whitmire, SC just 13 miles north of the original SEA PRO plant in Newberry SC.
“We’re excited to celebrate the return of one of our own companies and one of the most recognized brands in the boating industry. Sea Pro’s $5.5 million investment and the 238 new jobs it will create are not only a milestone for the company but also a huge win for our Midlands community and the entire state of South Carolina.” – Gov. Nikki Haley
“The Next Wave” is an all new incarnation of the brand with plans for seven new models for the 2016 season which will feature three Bay Series and four Deep V Series Center Console entries. Hancock and Wrenn have pledged to deliver the same unparalleled value and industry leading standard features that drove the massive success of the original and judging by the initial reactions following the summer release of their first two stunningly smart and innovative models, SEA PRO appears to be living up to expectations.
Tom Kehl of Kehl’s Family Boating Center says “We heard about the 239 CC for many months and could not wait to finally check it out. From the powder coated t-top rails that were designed to sit flush with the console giving this boat plenty of room to fish, to the full gelcoat finish on the inside of the console area and even a shower in a 23' center console? I've never seen that before. The innovative single rear mounted drainage system is also a super smart design feature. Storage for fish, gear, and cold drinks are plentiful throughout the boat. This is a well thought out boat. We are very excited to sell Sea Pro boats!"
In fact, the buzz throughout the entire marine industry has already been more than encouraging for The Next Wave of SEA PRO! Clint Saunders of Suzuki Motors adds, “It’s great to see a manufacture like Sea Pro get back into the business. With the leadership of one of the original owners and the group of guys they have assembled I’m sure they will again be on the cutting edge of boat design. I look forward to being a business partner.” Marine industry giant Joe Miller (President , William F. Miller & Associates) predicts " Jimmy and Preston have the team, the insight, and the mojo to make a strong impact once again. Lightning will strike twice in the same place...that is my prognostication!”
For more information on SEA PRO “The Next Wave” please visit their Website and follow them on Facebook and Twitter. Dealership inquires please contact rcoates@seapromfg.com - Media inquires contact jgriffith@seapromfg.com
