WHAT’S NEXT?

I started a Hobie dealership this summer and I found the following to be the case in my area, which correlates to Hobie’s decision to drop the H17 & 18. I found that sometimes I would have people call me about the TheMightyHobie18 (no one ever called about the 17), but those that wanted to buy a cat always ended up buying a Getaway or a H16. The Wave and Bravo seemed to have equal interest but not as much as the Getaway. I will say I got a lot of calls about the Tiger, but as yet have not made any sales, even though I believe the sales are coming. The H16 sells well, but is interesting why one would buy a new one when there are so many used ones available. I think part of this is due to some wanting the newer H16 for the integrated travelers, etc and some just wanting a new boat. To me it’s like the ski boat industry, there are a lot of used boats available but there is just something about buying a new one (it’s not just the racers that are buying new H16’s). So for me it’s their 3 roto-molded boats and the 2 fiberglass boats (H16 & Tiger) that are the best sellers and will continue to be for a long time to come. I am still comparing the Fox1 to other cats though, but seems like a great solo cat. I think eventually Hobie is going to drop a few more of their boats to streamline a little more, which makes sense to me. Doesn’t seem like there is much of a market or interest in the Fox, Dragoon, H21SC. some may see the discontinuation of the 17 & 18 as a sign that Hobie is having sales problems, I see it as a good sign that Hobie is being smart, etc.

From my point of view! The current Hobie USA catamaran product lineup (7 Models)

Hobie Bravo (12')
Hobie Wave (13')
Hobie Getaway (16')
Hobie 16 (16' 7")
Hobie FX1 (17')
Hobie Tiger (18')
Hobie 20 Miracle (19' 6")

The End of the line is not too distant for these Hobie models (3 Models). I know two of these models are new but it does not seem from what I have heard that they are catching on and/or gaining interest.

Hobie Dragoon (12' 10") – down side, to small for older teens
Hobie Fox (20') – down side, Just did not match up well against other 20 footers
Hobie 21 Sport Cruiser (21') – Getaway does it better with quicker set-up & price