Sealine Boats History & Heritage
Sealine's journey began in 1972 when British aeronautical engineer Tom Murrant, seeking a powerboat for personal use, decided to build his own. Originally known as Fibrasonic Marine, the company later adopted the brand name C-Line, evolving into Sealine after navigating through the challenges of the 1970s oil crisis.
Thriving in the 1980s and 90s, Sealine expanded into the American market, earning a place among the 'big four' British boat builders dominating the owner-operated cruiser market. Focused on family-friendly cruisers emphasizing interior comfort, Sealine also catered to the entry-level market, a unique approach compared to larger-yacht-centric brands.
In 1998, Murrant sold Sealine to venture capitalists, and later, in 2001, it became part of the Brunswick Corporation. After a decade of upward market movement, Sealine experienced another ownership shift to private equity investors.
The 2000s showcased Sealine's excellence, with innovative sports and flybridge yachts designed by Carsten Astheimer and featuring deep-vee planing hulls developed by racer Ocke Mannerfelt.
However, the global financial crisis of 2007-2008 led to Sealine going into administration in 2011, resulting in a temporary shutdown. The brand found a new home when Hanse Yachts' owner Aurelius SE acquired it from the receivers, relocating operations to Greifswald, Germany, and resuming manufacturing in 2014.
