News
Hargrave Family at the Miami Show
HARGRAVE INTRODUCES LARGEST YACHT IN FLEET DURING MIAMI SHOW
Hargrave Custom Yachts proudly showcased a fleet of 9 yachts during the Miami Yacht and Brokerage Show from February 14 – February 18, 2008, including the largest yacht built to date in the custom fleet. The 120’ Tri-Deck SANDRINE made her world premiere during this show and was met with an enthusiastic response.
“We were so thrilled to introduce the 120’ Tri-Deck to the public, alongside several other completely unique yachts. The diversity among these models is outstanding and truly worth seeing in person. Each yacht represents the specialization and true customization that we can offer our clients,” said company Chairman and CEO Michael Joyce.
Proudly displayed alongside the new 120’ were 4 other brand new Hargrave models including the just delivered 100’ Hargrave Raised Pilothouse CAMELOT, 98’ Hargrave Sky Lounge TIGERS EYE, 93’ Hargrave Raised Pilothouse DONNA MARIE, and 82’ Hargrave Flybridge ADVENTURE US.
“There are so many reasons why our owners continue to build custom boats at Hargrave, with some on their fourth new boat project with us. Some are trying to build the maximum size boat they can fit behind their home while others are trying to fit into a slip they own at Ocean Reef Club or another marina. Some have specific requirements like an elevator with wheelchair access to all three levels of their boat, while others want an office, gymnasium, or sauna / exercise room built into their dreamboat. All of them enjoy the fun and sense of satisfaction that comes from creating a magnificent new boat,” said Joyce.
Aside from eager buyers, the boats on display received a great deal of attention from the media as well. SANDRINE is scheduled for an exclusive article in an International yachting magazine and you will see several more Hargrave yacht features in the upcoming issues. Thank you to everyone who attended this event and took the time to learn about Hargrave.
Andrew Oleksiewicz and Wagih Chaya inspect a new 90’ Hargrave Yacht
Hargrave Yachts Joins Forces with New Vision Yachts and Makes Plans to Reach Dubai Buyers
Hargrave Custom Yachts has formed a business relationship with New Vision Yachts based in San Diego, CA. New Vision’s president, Wagih Chaya and C.O.O, Andrew Oleksiewicz recently visited the Hargrave Fort Lauderdale Office and learned about the Hargrave Custom Build Program. Their time in Florida was spent working alongside Hargrave CEO, Mike Joyce and seeing first-hand what goes into a custom-built Hargrave yacht. Their visit even included a stop at Hargrave’s exclusive interior design office, Yacht Interiors by Shelley.
Wagih and Andrew will be representing Hargrave during the Dubai International Boat Show, March 11 – 15, 2008. Their efforts will help Hargrave Custom Yachts to reach a global market and tap into the fast-growing yacht sales market in the Gulf region. According to the Dubai International Boat Show website, “The Middle East is the only region in the World that can boast such a huge level of investment in waterfront developments. These massive waterside developments in both Dubai and the surrounding region are generating increased demand for leisure boats, equipment and associated services.” In Dubia there are several Waterfront projects that will alone offer over 30,000 slips along the coastline of this amazing destination.
Both Hargrave and New Vision Yachts recognize the importance of reaching out to this market and continuing to expand on a global level. Hargrave Custom Yachts is proud to work with Wagih and Andrew on this exciting project and look forward to a successful response from their visit to Dubai.
Andrew Oleksiewicz, Wagih Chaya, Shelley DiCondina and Mike Joyce at Yacht Interiors by Shelley
John and Bobbi Sfire
Hargrave Owners Give Back and Lift Holiday Spirits
Hargrave Custom Yacht owners, John and Bobbi Sfire, offered special assistance to their community this holiday season through the Faith Food Pantry, which is a food pantry they have operated for the past 8 years in Lake County, Illinois. The pantry, which fed over 60,000 people and distributed over 1.6 million pounds of food in 2007 alone, opened its doors for the holidays feeding close to 2,000 families for both Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Food distribution is especially important during the holidays when money is tight for everyone. Over 65 percent of the pantry’s clients are employed, but with gas prices rising and the high cost of living, they simply do not earn enough money to feed their families. Due to the needs of their clients, the pantry offers meat, produce, dry goods and household items to between 520 and 600 families every Wednesday, and 52 weeks per year. John Sfire says that although they distribute food every week and clients are welcomed twice a month, most families visit on average only 5 times a year.
Faith Food is the largest not-for-profit food pantry in Lake County and ranks in the top three largest food distribution pantries in Illinois. John Sfire said, “The most important thing about Faith Food Pantry is that 100% of every dollar donated is used to buy food. Very few, if any, not-for-profit organizations can make that statement.” Because this organization devotes all their money to buying food, they rely entirely on volunteers and no one is paid at the Faith Food Pantry.
Hargrave is proud to recognize the good works of the Sfire family as were several of their local newspapers. The Faith Food Pantry received recognition in a recent article written by the Daily Herald in Chicago: http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=100990.
It is people like John and Bobbi Sfire who inspire us to recognize our blessings and to reach out to our own communities. Thank you to you both and we wish everyone a Happy New Year.
Dr. Armando and Lourdes Munoz with Peter Colagiovanni
Hargrave Vice President, Pete Colagiovanni poses with new Hargrave owners Dr. Armando and Lourdes Munoz
Hargrave Custom Yachts is pleased to announce that we have a new addition to the Hargrave Family of Owners, Dr. Armando and Lourdes Munoz. They come to us as experienced Hargrave cruisers, having spent time with a close friend on his 2007 96’ Hargrave. Dr. Armando and Lourdes Munoz enjoyed these experiences so much they have decided to build their very own 75’ Hargrave Flybridge Motoryacht.
The familiarity Dr. Munoz and his wife had with Hargrave made the transition from admirer to owner that much easier. They came to our South Florida office full of ideas and inspiration for their very own custom yacht. One result of their extensive knowledge was the idea to design an amazing 4-stateroom layout, which utilizes the space efficiently without sacrificing the style.
Dr. Armando Munoz is a successful doctor in Puerto Rico and is owner of the Hospital San Cristobal in Ponce, Puerto Rico. He and his wife have three grown children, 2 boys, both doctors and a daughter who is an Attorney. They also have grandchildren and plan to use their boat with their family and friends in Puerto Rico and all throughout the Caribbean.
The Hargrave Custom Yachts 2007 Owners’ Rendezvous was held from April 26, 2007 – April 29, 2007 in Key West, FL.
Key West, FL – The Hargrave Custom Yachts 2007 Owners’ Rendezvous was held from April 26, 2007 – April 29, 2007 in Key West, FL. A historical and fun city, ideal weather, and endless outdoor activities set the tone for this exclusive 4-day celebration. This annual event gives our growing family of owners the opportunity to meet each other and appreciate what they have collectively accomplished in helping to create each distinct and remarkable Hargrave Custom Yacht.
This year’s rendezvous was a group favorite as it captured the unique flavor of this popular destination. Saturday afternoon many attendees watched the infamous Key West bed races, fished in nearby crystal clear waters, or simply sipped on tropical drinks next to the pool. A little quirky and very laid back, this town gave guests a chance to unwind and share in some memorable moments together. Other activities included dockside cocktail parties, catered dinner parties with starlit dancing, a night time ghost tour of old town Key West, and a private conch train tour of the whole city. Owners were also given the opportunity to visit each other’s yachts and see the wide range of innovation and creativity that help make the Hargrave program so unique.
This year, 6 yachts and over 80 owners and guests came together in celebration of the 7th annual Hargrave Custom Yachts Owners’ Rendezvous. We truly hope that this was a joyous and memorable occasion for all attendees. It is truly amazing to reflect on what Hargrave has been able to accomplish together with the support of our owners, all whom have shared in the amazing experience of building a custom boat. Hargrave strives to maintain these important client relationships and to cultivate such dedication in new owners. These efforts are evident as the Hargrave Family of Owners continues to grow.
During the last dinner celebration Hargrave President, Mike Joyce, announced that the 2008 Hargrave Owners’ Rendezvous will be held at Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic and will be graciously hosted by Hargrave Yacht Owner, Fidel Alonso. There has been an overwhelming response to the announcement and formal plans are already underway.
John Alan and Bobbo Sfire with Peter Colagiovanni
We especially wish to welcome John Alan Sfire and his wife Bobbi to our Hargrave Family of Owners!
John Alan and his wife Bobbi, just signed a contract this month with Hargrave VP Pete Colagiovanni at the Ocean Reef Club, and currently own two Hatteras motoryachts (one in Florida and one in Chicago) as they build a custom 87’ Hargrave Sky Lounge Motoryacht with us.
John Alan and Bobbi live in Chicago, Illinois where John Alan owns The Fidelity Group LTD., which is a commercial real estate development company that he founded in 1987 after selling his computer company and retiring for a few years. Since inception, the Fidelity Group LTD and its affiliates have developed over 850,000 sq. ft. of space, most of which they own and manage.
As passionate and committed members of their community, the Sfires also run the largest food bank in Illinois: Faith Food Pantry. This food bank feeds over 520 families a week, and provides each with a weeks worth of meat, produce, dry goods and household items. They got involved in this work when the original Faith Food Pantry went up in flames the week before Thanksgiving a few years ago. After opening their hearts to this wonderful charity, they soon realized they wanted to do more. The Sfires then built new facilities, created a board of directors to better organize their efforts, and currently volunteer at the facility several times a week as well. John Alan, his wife and their two grown sons live and work in the Chicago area. They spend time in Florida as much as possible on one of their two boats, and soon to be their new custom Hargrave Yacht. We feel very lucky to be welcoming such a unique and caring family into our own family here at Hargrave Custom Yachts.
Last year’s Rendezvous included a cocktail reception at the home of Harry & Christianne Oakes in Lyford Cay. Mr. Oakes was Mike Joyce's first customer when he was the Cheoy Lee dealer back in 1981. Harry helped Mr. Joyce launch the Southern Cross project here in the USA, as well as the Mares project in Brazil. Mr. Oakes’s last boat before he retired was an 82' Hargrave.
Hargrave Heads to Key West for the 2007 Hargrave Owners’ Rendezvous
Everyone at Hargrave is getting ready for the 2007 Owners’ Rendezvous in Key West, Fl from April 26-29. The office is abuzz as preparations are made and the anticipation grows. This annual event gives our growing family of owners the opportunity to meet each other and appreciate what they have collectively accomplished in helping to create each distinct and remarkable Hargrave Custom Yacht.
Throughout the 4-day event, which includes cocktail parties, dinner celebrations, old town Key West tours and even dancing under the stars, owners are given the opportunity to visit each other’s yachts and see the wide range of innovation and creativity that help make the Hargrave program so unique.
This year 9 yachts and over 80 guests will come together in celebration of the 7th annual Hargrave Owners’ Rendezvous. We truly hope that this will be a joyous and memorable occasion for everyone. It is truly amazing to reflect on what Hargrave has been able to accomplish together with the support of our owners, all whom have shared in the amazing experience of building a custom boat. Check back for pictures from the event, and a weekend in review.
RON PICKLE DIES IN FT. LAUDERDALE
BOAT BUILDING EXECUTIVE WITH HARGRAVE AND TROJAN WAS RECOGNIZED AS A KEY INDUSTRY LEADER
Mr. Pickle, who was recognized on many occasions for his work with the National Marine Manufacturers Association and the American Boat and Yacht Council, played an important role in establishing the standards that still guide the boating industry to this day.
In 1992 Pickle started the American Fiberglass Technologies Corporation as a consultant to the industry and handled special assignments for Schoell Marine, Fountain, Wellcraft, Hargrave, Kenosha, Celebrity, and Bombardier, and finally joining Hargrave Custom Yachts in 1999 as Vice President of Manufacturing.
In an emotional speech to Hargrave employees on Monday, company President Mike Joyce credited Pickle with making major contributions to the success of that company. “Ron Pickle served in every possible position in this industry from errand boy all the way up to CEO and factory owner. Ron Pickle not only handled all his operating responsibilities at our company with distinction but also served as a teacher, motivator, mentor, and head cheerleader for everyone in this company, including me. God made very few people like Ron Pickle and we feel truly blessed to have worked with him.”
To celebrate Ron Pickle’s life, his family and friends will hold receptions in Ft. Lauderdale this weekend and in Lancaster, PA
the following week.
Mr. Joyce and his wife Jan will be hosting Mr. Pickle’s family and friends this Saturday, April 21st at the Coral Ridge Yacht Club in Ft. Lauderdale from 6 pm – 8 pm. RSVP is requested at 954-463-0555.
The location and time of the reception with family and friends in Lancaster, PA will be announced in the next few days.
Unique Styles and Celebrations Draw Crowds to Hargrave Display
Unique Styles and Celebrations Draw Crowds to Hargrave Display
Grandly lined along the southernmost dock at Bahia Mar and just across the water from Bahia Cabana, the Hargrave Custom Yachts display drew in huge crowds. New prospective clients and existing members of the Hargrave Family of Owners came to see the 4 newest Hargrave’s built, and gathered on the floating dock as guided tours of each distinct vessel were underway.
Guests of the display mingled with the welcoming Hargrave Family of Owners while waiting to board the yachts, and were treated like friends. Many visitors were spotted leaving with a cocktail courtesy of various boat owners and crew, and a lucky few were even seen stepping off the 97’ Hargrave Flush Deck HOOTER PATROL IV with an autographed Hooters Calendar in hand. After hours, the Hargrave owners had some fun of their own, as they were brought together during sunset cocktail parties and impromptu gatherings.
The Hargrave program is designed around our exceptional owners, and it is with their help and hospitality that new friends are made and new ideas are inspired. Our formula for continued success includes hard work, customer loyalty and an outstanding product.
Only Brand New Hargrave For Sale in USA - SOLD
Hargrave does not build boats for stock so it is a very rare occurrence when a brand new custom built yacht like NEFERTARI becomes available. The sale of this brand new boat is a rare opportunity for a discerning yachtsman.
This 2007 model 90' luxury Hargrave yacht is equipped and wired to explore the best remote cruising grounds in the world and yet it carries the sophisticated communications gear required to stay in constant contact with the outside world. If you are one of those totally stressed out executives in life who not only wants a break, but actually needs one, and yet you can't afford to just leave your business on hold, this yacht could be a blessing for you and your family.
What makes NEFERTARI even more special is that it was designed by an owner who has spent his professional career in marine publishing and has studied cruising yachts from every major builder in the world, bringing all of that expertise to bear on this project. The level of thought and planning that went into the execution of this yacht is immediately obvious and with five comfortable staterooms on the lower deck she has plenty of room for both owners and crew to spread out. When you examine the detailed specifications and extensive equipment list, even on an initial walk through, your experience will confirm that few boats in this size range can even hold a candle to NEFERTARI.
This yacht will make her world debut at the Ft. Lauderdale Boat Show October 26-30, 2006. It is a rare opportunity for the right buyer. Call for complete details, photos, video, and a private showing and demonstration. The yacht has left the factory and is scheduled to arrive on August 25, 2006 in the USA for final commissioning and preparation for the Fort Lauderdale Boast Show.