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Is POP Yachts a Scam? Why Many Believe it Is

In its own words, POP Yachts is a boat broker. Otherwise, its version of an About Us page is filled with the kind of information that most people would expect, which is to say, a description of what it does as well as how it does it but touched up to make it as presentable as possible. Something that isn't particularly uncommon for business websites to say the least. However, if interested individuals choose to look further using search engines, chances are good that they will turn up further web pages on other webpages with much more unpleasant things to say about the boat broker. Due to this, it is perfectly natural for them to wonder whether POP Yachts is a scam or not.

Is POP Yachts a Scammer?

Unfortunately, there is no simple and straightforward method for telling when a business has crossed the line from being a poor provider of products and services to being a straight-up scam. There are plenty of places where people have posted complaints about POP Yachts. For proof, look no further than the Better Business Bureau , which has provided it with a B- rating based on a total of 11 complaints. Furthermore, it is important to note that the Better Business Bureau has listed a 3-star review based on an aggregate of the customer reviews that have been submitted to it. Curiously, these reviews are either very good or very bad with few reviews that are in-between, which could be interpreted to mean that POP Yachts customers either have very good or very bad experiences. This is further supported by what people have said on various boat forums, which show a fair amount of negativity mixed in with some pretty positive comments.

As for the exact nature of the complaints, they are wide-ranging in nature rather than focused on one or even a small number of issues. In some cases, people complained about POP Yachts representatives misrepresenting the truth, which is a serious warning sign for obvious reasons. In other cases, complaints ranged from the poor attitude of POP Yachts representatives to a lack of response on the part of the boat broker and over-aggressiveness in their attempts to convince boat owners to sell through them. Based on this, it seems reasonable to say that POP Yachts has some serious issues, particularly since the range of reviews posted on a number of websites make it clear that this isn't just one or two customers who are dissatisfied by their interactions with the boat broker.

Moving on, it is curious to note that POP Yachts claims to be one of the best businesses of its kind when measured using the reviews posted on Trustpilot.com . For those who are unfamiliar with that particular name, Trustpilot.com is a review website where customers can post reviews about the businesses that they have interacted with. Perhaps unsurprisingly, online review sites are filled with dishonest reviews, which are the inevitable outcome when there are such strong incentives at work without the corresponding barriers set up to prevent people from acting upon them. However, Trustpilot.com is particularly concerning because KwikChex has turned up actual examples of fake reviews on its website, which isn't helped by the fact that the website lets its premium users filter the reviews that interested individuals see without any indication that said reviews have been filtered. Combined, these facts don't exactly inspire a great deal of confidence in what Trustpilot.com has to say on the matter, particularly when there are so many other complaints on other websites that contradict the substance of this particular claim.

Summed up, there is no simple and straightforward method for determining whether POP Yachts is a scam or not. When one considers the fact that it has been in business for years and years, it seems probable that it isn't a scam so much as a business that hasn't been very good at satisfying a substantial number of the customers that it has interacted with. However, whether POP Yachts is a scam or not probably isn't actually that interesting for most consumers out there. Instead, what most of them are really interested in is whether POP Yachts can be trusted to provide them with their desired service or not, in which case, the answer is at best a "maybe, maybe not." Suffice to say that this isn't what anyone would consider to be a stirring endorsement, meaning that interested individuals might want to look elsewhere. Something that is particularly true because there isn't exactly a shortage of other service providers that can help them with whatever it is that they are looking for in this regard.

How Can You Tell that Something Is a Scam Anyways?

In any case, interested individuals might want to look into the various ways that they can pick up on something being a scam, which should help them avoid a wide range of potential pitfalls. Generally speaking, interested individuals should be suspicious of anything that sounds too good to be true. In fact, they should be suspicious of anything that is making them rush into a decision because that reduces the chances of them making a cool, reasoned-out choice that is in their genuine best interests. Under this light, something that sounds too good to be true is suspicious because it seems designed to encourage them to rush into a decision instead of thinking about it. Similarly, if someone is getting a lot of pressure from the representatives of a business into making a decision, that tends to be rather suspicious as well, though to be perfectly fair, it is possible that they are just pushy salespeople rather than scammers seeking to pressure consumers into making a bad decision.

Besides this, there are various other things to watch out for. For instance, a business that hasn't existed for very long time is very suspicious because they are a complete and utter unknown, meaning that it is best to look elsewhere. Likewise, if a business has no physical presence at the place that they are claiming, that is even more suspicious. Fortunately, the Internet makes it easier for people to communicate than ever before, meaning that if people are interested, they should have no problems finding more information on how to pick up on potential problems.

Written by  Allen Lee

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POP Yachts opinions.

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Hello, Have anyone sold or bought a boat through POP Yachts, LLC? I am questioning how legit and good they are. Any issues to be aware of? Thanks.  

They're a broker so...beware. IMO, you're much better off selling it yourself.  

Yeah, I agree. I have my boat listed on boat trader. I’m selling my CC to buy a microskiff. I thought about expanding my options if they are legit and have good reviews. What they say is too good to be true, if you know what I mean. I am looking to see what the guys on here have to say about them or any broker.  

Look over at The Hull Truth. Lots of threads about them and none are positive.  

No positive reviews? That says a lot. Thanks.  

I have purchased a boat through them and it was a really smooth experience. On the other hand, I would not sell a boat through them as they essentially take 10% of the sale to put on boat trader and similar websites. I initially had mine listed with them but after months I took it to south FL and sold with a broker in 2 days. I would think a lot of negative reviews are those that were frustrated on their individual boat sale (ex. someone who thinks their 1990 starcraft with a 70 hp 2 stroke Johnson is 10,000)  

jlindsley said: I have purchased a boat through them and it was a really smooth experience. On the other hand, I would not sell a boat through them as they essentially take 10% of the sale to put on boat trader and similar websites. I initially had mine listed with them but after months I took it to south FL and sold with a broker in 2 days. I would think a lot of negative reviews are those that were frustrated on their individual boat sale (ex. someone who thinks their 1990 starcraft with a 70 hp 2 stroke Johnson is 10,000) Click to expand...

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 POP Yachts and RVs Mark Ellefsen 573-207-4022

POP Yachts and RVs, works in conjunction with POP Sells, LLC which is the largest privately held boat and RV brokerage in the nation with over 300 Brokers.  Brokers are located in USA and Canada.

POP Sells, LLC was established in July 2009 and is headquartered in Sarasota, Florida. 

( Florida Secretary of State Registration ) and has sold over 20,000 units.

POP Yachts and RVs has a large inventory of boats and RVs for sale and the inventory is ever-changing and most likely we have the boat or RV for sale that you are looking for.

If you are selling or looking for a boat or RV we can help you sell or find the boat or RV that is for sale that meets your needs.

If the boat or RV that is for sale that you want and is not in our inventory don't worry.  We still can help you buy the boat with our Co-Boat Broker services.

We work with all Boat and RV Brokers when it comes to buying or selling a boat or RV. POP Yachts and RV brokerage services will ensure your interests are protected through the whole boat buying process.

POP Yachts and RVs brokerage business model is different than most Boat Brokers.  When your boat is for sale with POP Yachts and RVs brokerage you get to use your boat or RV while we market it for you.  Don't let you're for sale boat or RV sit on a lot or in a  marina while you make payments.

Enjoy your boat and RV while you are trying to sell it by listing it with POP Yachts and RV  brokerage.

If your boat or RV is for sale with POP Yachts and RVs brokerage you still have the ability to sell your boat or RV on your own and not pay POP Yachts and RVsbrokerage a commission.  You only pay POP Yachts and RVs brokerage a commission if we procure the buyer through our marketing efforts or if the buyer is procured by one of  POP Yachts and RVs brokerage or through a Co-Boat Broker agreement.

POP stands for "Paid on Performace". There is no cost to you unless we sell your unit.

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The Hull Truth: Sailors Forum Review (Is It Worth It?)

The Hull Truth is a free interactive forum. It is the first largest boating, sailing, fishing, all things marine life forum on the web. The forum cuts across everything there is to know about life on the sea, including buying and selling boats, fishing, marine electronics, and a host of other related topics. The hull truth website began on the 21st of February 2001 as a substitute to Saltwater Sportsman magazine internet forums. Most members of The Hull Truth originally were from Saltwater Sportsman.

The need for a substitute forum emerged when most forums on Saltwater Sportsman were getting withheld as the advertisers in the magazine did not like the effects of an open forum as they discussed issues affecting their boats or products. As a result, Wet & Wiley founded the hull truth website. Although the website has been sold to Internet Brands Inc., Wiley owns a few other sites, one of which is  reelboating.com.

Wet & Wiley released a statement on the website when Internet Brands Inc. acquired it.

A Statement The Hull Truth

“My Fellow THT’ers,

Since founding “The Hull Truth Boating & Fishing Forum” in 2001, I have always made certain that whenever changes were made to the website, it was always for the betterment of the community. As the Hull Truth has grown to such astronomical levels over the past years, I have come to realize that the forum may not be operating to its full potential with only the resources of me and my wife at the helm. What began as a part-time commitment has grown to over 70 plus hours per week, with no relief in sight. Therefore, after 6 years, I feel what is now best for the forum is the professional assistance from a larger, fully staffed company.

Today I am announcing that THT has been acquired by Internet Brands, Inc., which operates a host of leading travel websites such as Cruisemates.com, Vamoose.com, and Wikitravel.org.

With this acquisition, THT should be much better staffed to provide the services a large online community requires, from marketing and accounting to very capable technical and development teams….”

The opinions and comments expressed on the forum are for those who enjoy boating, fishing, and not compulsorily that of sponsors and advertisers or the Forum Director. On this forum, if you are a newbie researching for a new boat — or have been a captain for many years, you will find a plethora of direct information from boat owners across the world.

The Hull Truth Policies

The forum has a strict policy of guideline adherence. Here are a few guidelines advised to follow when on the forum. The guidelines are said to be incomplete, a work in progress, and may be updated or changed without notice.

Firstly, posting as a new member on the forum. It is advisable to introduce yourself in your initial post, detailing your current boating situation or the type of boating information you are looking for.

Also, members of the forum are only allowed to post their boating and fishing items for sale in the Trading-Dock forum. Posting any sales items outside of the Trading-Dock forum is highly prohibited, and any of such posts seen will be deleted. Dealers/Brokers may not sell their items on the Trading-Dock unless they are paid sponsors of The Hull Truth.

Secondly, as a new member posting offsite web links is not a good practice. If you may post a link to another site apart from The Hull truth, the link has to answer a question. It must not promote or advertise any website. Any post containing links posted for the sole purpose of advertising or promoting a website will be removed. However, if you wish to advertise a personal boating-related website link, contact The Hull Truth Webmaster for instructions.

Lastly, The Hull Truth does not endorse advertisers. Organizations or individuals are only at liberty to do so, providing that they pay. The forum is a private bulletin board; hence, It reserves the right to refuse advertisement for any purpose. THT also especially encourages its users to form their verdict regarding any products or advertisement stated.

You have to have a registered account on the forum in order to post messages. You enter your preferred username, email address, and required fields list on the signup page. Your username could be a nickname, as it will be visible on the forum. It is worthy to note that usernames will contain alphanumeric keys only, no special characters or punctuations. You will have a permanent username; it will be unchangeable. You can subscribe to a forum to keep track of different threads and forums that you are interested in.

You are at liberty to join any forum of your choice, provided that you follow the current guidelines stated above and the future ones that may follow when you visit the website.

There is the Boating Forum, where topics ranging from boats, engines, and other marine-related items are talked about.

The Trucks & Trailers; Where boaters discuss trucks and trailers.

Industry News; which talks about what’s new in the boating world with a host of other advertisements.

Marine Electronics Forum; here, boaters discuss Radar, GPS, etc. The rest of the forums include SportFishing and Charters Forum, Boating How-To’s: The Kerno Memorial Forum, Boating and Boat Show Photos, lastly, the Dockside Chat.

There is a Trading Dock platform that allows you to browse, buy or sell. But to sell, you have to be a registered member of the Captain’s club or Admiral’s club. The Trading Dock section also has forums that sell different commodities. This includes Boats, Trucks & Trailers, Parts– Marine parts, Fishing, and Miscellaneous Items, etc.

Regional boating and fishing group that connects American boat lovers from different regions in the States. The forums are divided into regions in the United States. Including Northeast, Great Lakes, West Coast, Gulf Coast, etc.

The website also has a Products and Services section with forums of different manufacturers of Marine Products. There is an electronics section divided into four forums discussing the different types of marine electronics available and a section for insurance brokers.

Finally, a bonus section with four forums that include the Sports Forum; talking about the different sports popular in American culture. The Food and Beverage forum; discussing and sharing favorite recipes. SCUBA, Snorkel & Spearfishing Forum; Activities related to diving which fishermen and boat owners on the website enjoy. Kayaking, Skiing & Surfing; More water sport activities boards find interesting.

Reviews go a long way when it comes to publicizing a product. Bad or good reviews affect how certain products fair in the market. So, if you are looking for reviews of any and every kind of boat or any sea life activity available, it is listed on this website. The website helps new boat owners make informed decisions on what to get and look out for in the marine market. The hull truth website boasts of over three hundred and fifty-nine thousand (359,000) members as of 2021. The members grow by the day. The website is known to be apolitical, and discussions on politics are banned from it.

Next time you are looking out for a specific boat, spare parts, or water sporting activity you need more insight on, The Hull Truth is of the best websites loaded with information concerning marine topics to check out.

Peter is the editor of Better Sailing. He has sailed for countless hours and has maintained his own boats and sailboats for years. After years of trial and error, he decided to start this website to share the knowledge.

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MYTHBUSTERS. . . The Real Truths About the Deep-V Hull

Posted on Sat, Mar 23, 2013

TRUTH:  Today’s deep-vs do not roll any more than flatter bottoms of the same beam.

Truth:  there is not much difference in speed between well designed planing hull shapes., truth:  not all deep-v's are the same., truth:  less deadrise is not necessarily better at slower speeds., subscribe via e-mail, latest blog articles, browse by tag.

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Our History

Proudly a part of the fabric of Palm Beach County, Florida since 1910, we began building boats for the same reason we continue today – to improve on what is on the water. What began as a commercial fishing operation and a small boat repair business has since evolved into the builder of the world's premier sportfishing yachts, unrivaled in design and finish, and synonymous with innovation and the pursuit of perfection. While our family business has operated at different locations and with different names over the years, we have always subscribed to the same philosophy: Listen, think, and create. That philosophy is grounded in hard work, a dedication to our craft, and the partnership that we forge with every customer that puts their trust in us.

The Birth of John Rybovich & Sons

In 1919, John "Pop" Rybovich started his small commercial boat repair yard when he moved from commercial fishing to servicing the boats of the early commercial fishing fleet of the Palm Beach area. The West Palm Beach yard quickly gained a reputation for its skill and attentiveness, and as the sportfishing concept of the 1930's grew in popularity, Pop and his three sons, Johnny, Tommy and Emil, were at the center of a new industry converting the power cruisers of the nearby Palm Beach elite to chase Sailfish just outside Lake Worth Inlet.

Miss Chevy II

Following the return of Johnny, Tommy and Emil from World War II, each with the skills they had developed overseas, the idea was born to build a boat dedicated to sportfishing. In 1947, that idea became a reality, and the first custom sportfishing boat, Miss Chevy II , was launched. In the years that followed, the sport that was their passion as well as their livelihood grew in popularity, and the boys grew with it, honing their skills and working with owners to build a better-riding, more innovative and more beautiful boat.

The Broken Sheer and Miss Chevy IV

Tommy's passing.

From 1947 to 1972, the brothers launched 75 hulls, each better than the last and each with their own unique character and innovations. Johnny, the fisherman, brought new ideas and oversaw management, Tommy, the designer and builder, oversaw the carpentry and painting trades, and Emil, the engineer, directed all mechanical and electrical work in new construction as well as in service. Of the three dedicated brothers, it was Tommy's obsession with his work that became legendary and provided the energy and inspiration in the yard's incessant quest for perfection. However, two years after the passing of the family patriarch, Pop Rybovich, Tommy Rybovich passed from cancer in 1972. The soul of the yard, and the head of design and hull building, had passed far too young at the age of 52.

New Owners of the Family Business

Michael becomes head boat builder.

By the time of the sale in 1975, Michael Rybovich, Emil’s son and the next generation of Rybovich boat builders, was working at the family boatyard developing his skills as a carpenter, while fishing when the time allowed. The new owner, Bob Fisher, insisted that Johnny and Emil (and Michael) continue working at their family’s business. But, by 1980, both Johnny and Emil found the changes were too much for their liking and decided to part ways with the business – around this time, Michael became the head boat builder.

A New Family Business

In 1984, Michael, too, decided to leave and with his father, Emil, his brother, Marty Evans, and family friend, Ed Bussey, started a boat building company called Rybovich International with the goal continuing to innovate the world of sportfishing and build a better boat. The first of those new hulls was Ruthie , a 32' Walkaround built for Charlie Bouchard, based on a concept that legendary angler, Nick Smith, had applied to a 30' Daytona .  The boat proved a great fishing platform and, with her new bottom, could fish in rough water alongside boats twice her size.

Ryco Marine

Following the second sale of the original family business in 1986, a lawsuit forced Rybovich International to abandon their name, as well as the " Rybovich signature" broken sheer and double handrail designs. Vowing to continue on and not wanting to get involved in a lengthy legal battle, Ryco Marine was born. The trend of building larger sportfishing boats continued, and by the mid-1990's, Ryco Marine was building boats into the 60' class.

Back to the Family Business

By the early 2000s, the original family business was in the hands of H. Wayne Huizenga Jr., the fourth owner since the family sold the business in 1975. In 2005, following Hurricane Wilma and extensive damage to the Ryco Marine facility, a partnership was formed and Michael joined with Huizenga – a Rybovich was once again building Rybovich boats under the Rybovich name. For the next four years the new company flourished, and during this time, Rybovich & Sons delivered five boats from 54 to 78 feet, the last two being the largest ever built under the family name. As the world recession deepened in 2008, the once full order book became an empty testament to the bad economy. In early 2010, management was forced to make several difficult decisions, including shelving new construction altogether to focus on the development of a full-service super yacht marina at the Riviera Beach site.

Michael Rybovich & Sons

Following the Great Recession of 2008 and a desire to focus on a super yacht marina and service yard, the partnership with H. Wayne Huizenga Jr. was amicably dissolved, and the search for a new home began. Soon after, the most recent rebirth of the Rybovich boat building name came to fruition when Michael and his wife Julia (with the help of family friend, Larry Wilson) purchased the old E&H Boat Works in Palm Beach Gardens, FL and opened Michael Rybovich & Sons Custom Boat Works . Today, we operate as a family business dedicated to the same ideals of innovation and the pursuit of perfection that helped build the Rybovich name. Michael, along with his two sons, Dusty Rybovich and Alex Gill , and the most talented crew in the industry, strive to carry on a tradition that started more than 100 years ago in a small boatyard in West Palm Beach.

The Unabridged History

In 1934, Gifford, the Cass brothers, Bill Fagen , and Lloyd Knowles collaborated in the design and building of a reel that would stand up to the stress of hooking and landing large Marlin and Tuna. This reel became known as the Knowles Tuna Reel . In 1935, Ernest Hemingway landed the first un-mutillated Giant Bluefin Tuna in the Bahamas. In 1936, Fred Grieten applied for a patent for the first Fin-Nor fishing reel , which was built to Tommy Gifford's specifications. In the 1930s, Frank O'Brien designed and built the Tycoon Bimini King rod which would provide the mount and the leverage for the new reel technology. The new equipment provided sportsmen with the means and the advent of the 1939 Cat Cay Tuna Tournament provided the arena. In 1937 Johnny was invited to fish Bimini and Cat Cay with a local captain and landed his first Blue Marlin. Two years later he landed his first Giant Bluefin. Johnny was beginning to realize the desperate need for a boat designed and built specifically for big game sport fishing but the realization of that concept would have to wait. His country would soon need his and his brothers' services for bigger fish.

It is clear that all three young men developed an even greater interest in the family business and acquired an education in their respective special talents while in their country's service. Johnny's service taught him business skills and introduced him to the emerging material technology in Military hardware. Emil, a self taught mechanical engineer, was exposed to the engineering and performance standards within the fleet of Army boats for which he was responsible. Tommy was absorbed with aerodynamics, aircraft construction, and the beauty and efficiency of a clean line which is so important in aircraft design. The combination of these skills post war would prove to be a study in excellence.

Of the three dedicated brothers, it was Tommy 's obsession with his work that became legendary and provided the energy and inspiration in the yard's incessant quest for perfection. He worked from eight in the morning to eight at night, went home for dinner and returned to the yard, typically working until eleven p.m. and beyond. Sundays were half-days to allow time for the family. With no formal training in naval architecture, Tommy's early designs were based on known lengths, beams, and displacements of similar vessels that were accessible in the service yard. Suffice it to say that from the waterline up, the design was all his.

The first project in which he was involved was the Chevy Clipper , a 47' long-range fisherman for none other than Charles Johnson . His third Rybovich build, Chevy Clipper again satisfied Johnson's thirst for having something no one else had. With a galley and salon under a forward trunk, crew forward, and a private master suite under an aft trunk, she combined the modern broken sheer with the additional volume provided by a traditional trunk arrangement fore and aft with a six-foot fishing cockpit. To eliminate the inefficiency of gasoline engines with enough power to push a boat of that size at a respectable cruise speed, she was the first Rybovich to be built with diesel power . To keep Tommy's sleek profile low, Emil installed a pair of "incline" G.M. 6-71 's which had the blocks rotated along the shaft centerline to lower the height by 5" compared with the original upright Grey Marine version. Jack's introduction to Charles Johnson on that project was the beginning of a long relationship between the two pioneers.

In 1957 Roger Firestone , who owned the 43' " Tireless " insisted that his boat be converted to diesel power and he didn't give a damn how it was accomplished. After a lot of thought, Johnny and Emil decided to go the other way. Instead of raising the boat, they would drop the engines --- literally. They cut out the bottom of the boat beneath the oil pan and gear and dropped the Caterpillar engines that Firestone had specified, straight down between the main stringers. When John Sr. walked by the boat the following day and saw one of the engines protruding for the bottom of the hull he gave Johnny hell for ruining the man's boat. Johnny tried to explain but the old man would have none of it. Johnny and Emil did have a plan. They fashioned airfoil-shaped blisters out of fiberglass and projected the shaft log along the new shaft line out the aft end of the blister and glued and bolted the assembly to the hull. When the project was completed the boat had a flatter, more efficient shaft angle and performed beautifully with greater range and no loss in performance. Several other boats were converted in this manor before low profile diesels were made available in the years that followed.

Prior to 1958, the yard used resorcinol glue for most all its adhesive applications. Its use was common in many boatyards and did an adequate job of holding things together, although its adhesive properties were known to diminish over time. That year, a customer named George Molle ordered a boat from Rybovich under one condition, that his boat would be built using a catalyzed epoxy resin instead the conventional glue. Epoxy had been developed for the aircraft industry in WW II as a means of bonding aluminum but as far as anyone knew, it had never been used to glue a wooden boat together. Tommy experimented with the new material and agreed to Molle's request. The new glue turned out to be far stronger and have many more applications than resorcinol and became the standard not only in new construction but in the repair side of the business as well.

The boat was completed as a yard project and had the first pair of jet-drives installed locally. She was extremely fast but the jet drives produced unpredictable handling characteristics and were soon abandoned for conventional drive. The experiment had been a success. The boat was sold to yard customer Eddie Crawford , and was fished hard for many years from the Palm Beaches to Hawaii. She is still an eye-catcher and in beautiful condition today.

In 1966 Johnny introduced the " Tournament of Champions ", which was a tournament designed to raise money for conservation. At the end of the competition each year, the winner would decide on what conservation project his winnings should be spent. Early sonic tagging experiments on billfish were paid for through funds realized through that tournament. Throughout the 60s, the continued decline in local fishing stocks was a cause for great concern with Johnny. It was clear to him that the mortality rate of sailfish hooked and released on live bait was much higher than those released on dead bait. In 1972 Johnny founded the Gold Cup Tournament , which awarded significantly more points for fish caught on dead bait. These tournaments and a great deal of research projects were born out of Johnny's love and respect for the sport on which he had built his family's business, and for the cause of marine conservation to which he dedicated the last 30 years of his life.

1975 to Present

"We continue to subscribe to the same philosophy—listen, think, and create. We are here to build a better boat. It's as simple as that."

Anna Pollack, wife of John Rybovich, Sr.

An early print ad for the boatyard

Aftermath of the September 16, 1928 hurricane

Converting existing cruisers to sportfishing boats by adding outriggers, fishing chairs, gunwale mounted rod holders and topside-mounted controls.

The old Rybovich Boatyard in West Palm Beach

Michael Lerner

Kip Farrington

Tommy Gifford with a Blue Marlin

The Cass Brothers with a shark-eaten Tuna

Lloyd Knowles and the Knowles Tuna Reel

Ernest Hemingway fishing for Bluefin Tuna

Fred Grieten, developer of the Fin-Nor reel

The Fin-Nor big game fishing reel

Frank O'Brien, designer of the Tycoon Bimini King rod

Tommy Rybovich (circled) with crew and battered B-17

Emil's World War II patrol boat

John Rybovich with Charlie Johnson (seated)

Clari-Jo (hull #2), renamed Legend, built in 1949

Charles Johnson

Miss Chevy IV (hull #8) built in 1952

Georgia May (hull #19) launched in 1955

Horace Dale Critz

John Rybovich and Ernest Hemingway (2nd & 3rd from left) in Havana, 1956

Gasoline engine

Tireless (hull #28) launched in 1957

Emil Rybovich with the fiberglass "blister"

Fiberglassing the hull

The cold molding process

Rhino (hull #34) launched in 1959

Mahogany planking sliced to 3/8"

Stiff one-piece wooden hull

Peter A B Widener, horse breeder and sportsman

Jet Stream (hull #47) launched in 1961

James H. Kimberly, sportsman, socialite and Kleenex heir

Fighting chair

Kay Rybovich with Sailfish and husband John

Kay Rybovich, Ginni Sherwood and Dennie Crowninshield, founders of the IWFA

Trophy for the Master's Angling Tournament , sponsored by The Sailfish Club

The Sailfish Club in Palm Beach

The Republic SeaBee seaplane

The second Republic SeaBee

The West Palm Beach Fishing Club

Asinine , forerunner to the modern center-console fishing boat

John and Emil Rybovich

Tommy Rybovich towing a scale model with Giovanni Cardelli

Herbert Clofine

Amigo V (hull #61) launched in 1965

Annabet (hull #69) launched in 1968

Little Pete (hull #65) launched in 1967

Margaret (hull #73) launched in 1972

Emil Rybovich

Swamp Fox (hull #79) launched in 1976

Marty Evans

Gary Hilliard

Ruthie (hull #108) launched in 1985

Legendary angler Nick Smith

Ryco Marine in Riviera Beach FL

Damage from Hurricane Wilma in October 2005

A pair of 78' sportfishermen from 2009-2010

Miss Chevy II (hull #1) launched in 1947

The Webb Institute for Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering

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A look at the splashiest yachts at the palm beach international boat show.

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Spectacular multi-million dollar yachts — check! Balmy, waterfront location — check! Family-friendly exhibitions and fun — check!

Then it must be the 42nd annual Palm Beach International Boat Show, which cruised into West Palm Beach this week. The city’s waterfront Downtown was transformed into a yachters’ haven, filled with ultra-luxurious yachts and cruisers and a seemingly endless range of yachting-inspired activities.

This year some 800 boats and yachts participated in the show, which is expected to lure over 55,000 total visitors along with 600 brands. In total, the four-day show is anticipated to pump over $1 billion into the economy of the Palm Beach area, which has seen both its population and popularity surge since the pandemic.

“Beyond its economic significance and standing in the industry, the Palm Beach International Boat Show holds a special place in the hearts of local residents, revered as one of the region’s must-attend events,” said Alyssa Freeman, executive director of the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County (MIAPBC).

The show supports a series of satellite events such as the Winward VIP Club, with an open bar, gourmet dining and special pop-up activations. The Super Yacht Show Palm Beach at Palm Harbor was where the show’s most glamorous — and truly gargantuan — superyachts are on display. At the AquaZone, which is presented by Nautical Ventures, guests can enjoy a “show within a show” via an interactive experience featuring a wide range of water sports and cutting-edge, marine-related products.

“The Palm Beach International Boat Show holds a special place in the hearts of local residents.”

As always, the Show delivers an exceptional array of culinary experiences, including world-class cocktails provided by sponsors such as Goslings Rum. The Show also includes a series of education seminars that appeal to visitors of all ages, including the Hook the Future’s Kids Fishing Clinics with Captain Don Dingman, who demonstrates various fishing techniques while showcasing a wide variety of fish species. Participants get a free Hook the Future x Carolina Skiff rod and reel combo.

But it’s really all about the boats. Here are five of the most unique, intriguing and eye-popping vessels on display.

The lucky charm

Few yachts at this year’s show are as jaw-dropping as Talisman C. Designed by London-based interiors aces H2 and manufactured by Turkish master yacht-builders Proteksan Turquoise, it’s currently listed for sale by British yachting firm Burgess for a cool $59.7 55 million. Spanning just over 231 feet long, it features six full-sized cabins that can sleep up to 14 guests, including a sprawling owner’s suite with its king-size bed and crystal chandelier, massive walk-in closet and grand library (which can easily be converted into an additional cabin).

Upstairs, the yacht’s sundeck features a large glass-encased Jacuzzi, sun beds and dining area under the sun or stars. A chic swim platform allows for easy access to the azure seas while the nearby aft deck area includes a fully equipped bar with club seating as well as a full-size dining area capped by a glass-threaded chandelier.

The vessel is powered by a pair of 2,447hp Caterpillar diesel engines, which provide a top speed of 18 knots, a cruising speed of 15 knots and a transatlantic range of 7,000 nautical miles.

The emperor

Reaching just under 300 feet in length, the Nero is, without doubt, one of the most eye-catching vessels at the entire Palm Beach show. Although completely contemporarily designed and manufactured, the Nero embodies the look and aesthetic of classic boats from yachting’s golden age during the 1930s. Fully overhauled in 2021, the Nero — which is currently on the market for just under $500,000 per week via Burgess — was designed in the spirit of Corsair, a yacht launched in the 1930s that belonged to legendary Wall Street financier J.P. Morgan.

Inside, it could not be more luxurious. On the top deck is a world-class gym fitted out with equipment by Technogym, while a few steps beyond is a beauty salon, which comes with an in-house beautician and masseuse.

There are six cabins with room for 12 guests — along with an on-board Jacuzzi, pool and waterslide. Throughout, veteran yacht designer Laura Pomponi has updated and upgraded the Nero’s look, introducing a range of new handmade carpets, along with hardwood floors, new sofas and elegant art-works. Pomponi has also lent her hand to Nero’s distinctive 30-foot Corsair custom-built tender that has been refitted so guests can arrive in impeccable style.

The secret agent

As its name suggests, the 236-foot Casino Royale brings a large dose of Bond-like elegance and intrigue to West Palm Beach. Constructed by Italian master shipbuilder Tankoa in 2018 and given a top-to-bottom retrofit in 2022, Casino Royale includes six cabins for 12 passengers and has been awarded a slew of industry accolades for its innovative and forward-thinking technology and aesthetic. Nearly two dozen crewmembers tend to those lucky voyagers, which luxuriate in an on-board circular swimming pool and access the ship via a helicopter port.

The yacht’s primary suite is nothing if not grand, featuring 180-degree views from its king-size bed along with its own study and al fresco terrace with private sunbed and Jacuzzi. There are five additional guest suites — all with their own private baths. Just beyond is an open-air living layout complete with a range of bespoke contemporary furnishings across the boat’s nearly half-dozen passenger decks.

Outside the amenities are just as abundant and include an onboard beach club with a lounge, bar, sauna, terrace and hammam/shower. All are ideal locations to rest and recharge after a workout in the yacht’s wellness center. On the main deck, there’s a nearly 20-foot-long infinity pool, while that helipad can easily convert into a dance floor.

The love boat

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Completely futuristic and totally cool, the 180-foot-long Come Together is the ultimate example of stealth wealth on the high seas. Completed just two years ago by the Dutch firm Amels and currently on the market for a cool $65 million, Come Together features an unmistakable architecturally styled exterior reminiscent of a city-center skyscraper.

The boat can house up to 14 guests and 13 crew members within its unmissable steel hull and an aluminum-clad super structure — all cruising at a top speed of 15.5 knots.

The boat’s expansive master suite is set within its main deck and features sprawling storage space, a dressing room as well as his and hers bathrooms. There are an additional VIP cabin, two double cabins and two further cabins that can operate as twins or doubles. Up top, there’s a fully equipped gym and Jacuzzi — while a set of Jet Skis, water skis and hover-like Seabob watercraft keep the fun going just off deck. Come Together’s unique underwater lighting system also delivers a strong dose of excitement come nighttime and is the perfect way to enjoy an after-hours swim.

Want more? Then don’t forget about the on-board wakeboards, paddleboards and snorkeling equipment. And, when the moment strikes to head from the boat to land, travel could not be easier thanks to an easy-access 30-foot Limo Tender.

The cordial cruiser

The aptly named Hospitality ticks off the right boxes when it comes to superyacht bells and whistles. This twin-engine beauty can house up to 16 passengers along with 11 crew at a maximum cruising speed of 24 knots. Built back in 2011 by Westport Yachts here in the US, Hospitality — which is currently on the market for just under $30 million — underwent a comprehensive retrofit in 2021.

Along with all of the requisite yachting toys — Jet Skis, Seabobs and paddleboards — Hospitality includes a grand private owner’s suite with its own private relaxation balcony, seven cabins along with a relaxation room that can be used as a gym or spa and meticulously designed public spaces across is handful of decks. There’s also a handy tender for quick — or, not so quick — jaunts to the shore for dining and shopping.

Hospitality mostly cruises the Caribbean to New England, making the most of Northern Hemisphere winters.

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See Mark Zuckerberg’s glossy new $300M, 287-foot superyacht ‘Launchpad’

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All aboard S.S. Facebook.

Mark Zuckerberg has reportedly gifted himself a $300 million megayacht, dubbed “Launchpad,” ahead of his 40th birthday.

The staggering 387-foot-long vessel was seen floating at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., after arriving at its berth earlier this week, The Sun reported Thursday.

The multi-layered luxury ship’s sleek exterior was designed by Espen Øino International and boasts a steel hull and an aluminum superstructure, according to SuperYacht Times.

Reportedly ranking as the 45th largest yacht in the world, the interiors are just as aesthetically pleasing and reportedly executed by Zuretti Interior Design company, a France-based company specializing in unique and custom yacht design.

The breathtakingly beautiful floater stands out with a navy blue theme matching an American flag perched proudly on its wood-paneled stern.

There are several outdoor areas where the social media maven will be able to relax with his family and the indoor levels feature glass paneling allowing for tons of natural light.

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There also appears to be a helipad perfect for whenever the Facebook co-founder wants to travel to his vessel by air.

The Feadship-built yacht, built in 2022, can comfortably fit 24 guests aboard, requires a crew of 48, and is said to cost $30 million a year for upkeep and usage, according to Superyachtfan.com .

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Want celebrity news as it breaks? Hooked on Housewives?

Boatworld insiders have been buzzing with speculation that Zuckerberg is the owner of the newly minted mega-cruise ever since it made its main voyage from the Netherlands last week.

The tech titan was spotted touring the Russian-commissioned megayacht in early March, though the impressive boat didn’t arrive stateside until this week due to sanctions, according to The Sun.

The website reported that Zuckerberg purchased the pricey yacht – along with its own $30 million partner boat — most likely as an early 40th birthday present to himself.

The boat reportedly traveled to Florida after being granted special permission to be imported just weeks ahead of Zuckerberg’s birthday on May 14.

Zuckerberg’s yacht is just 30 feet shorter than the length of fellow billionaire Jeff Bezos’ 417-foot megayacht Koru, which the Amazon boss snagged for a whopping $500 million.

Zuckerberg’s rep did not immediately respond to Page Six’s request for comment.

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Are Pursuit Boats Reliable & Good? (Helpful Tips)

Pursuit Boats is a brand of boats known for the quality of construction and customer service.

The company’s boats are expensive.

If you are looking into the brand, it is fair to ask, how good are their boats?

Check out the most common complaints and issues with the Pursuit boats .

Here’s How Good Pursuit Boats Are:

Pursuit Boats is an upper-tier brand of offshore powerboats. They manufacture a center and dual consoles. They also have a line of offshore cruisers and a line of luxury sport yachts. Quality of construction, comfortable and practical layouts and top-notch customer service describe them.

Table of Contents

A Brief History of Pursuit Boats

The Slikkers family went into the powerboat business by founding Pursuit Boats In 1977. They were initially made in the S2 plant in Holland, Michigan.

In 1978, the company expanded further, introducing the Tiara line of powerboats and the Grand Slam sailboats. A few years later, Slikkers reacquired the Slickcraft brand name from AMF.

In 1983, Slikkers opened up a 75,000 square foot facility in Fort Pierce, Florida, to manufacture Pursuit Boats exclusively. The other brands were still made in the Holland plant.

By 1987, the sailboat market had was experiencing a significant downturn, and S2 ceased its production of sailboats. Their other powerboats, led by Pursuit, set new sales records every year through the 1990s.

In 1994, the company won their first Customer Satisfaction index award from the Marine manufacturers Association; they continue to win this award every year, including 2021.

Record sales continued through the 2000s and 2010s, and in 2012 Pursuit entered the Sport Yacht market with a 30-foot hull. Their Fort Pierce plant was expanded in 2006 and 2017.

In 2018, Malibu Boats, Incorporated purchased Pursuit Boats from S2 for $100 million, adding the line to their brands of premium powerboats.

Since the acquisition, Pursuit has continued to introduce new boat models and expand its production facilities, most recently in 2020.

How Reliable Are Pursuit Boats?

While designed for offshore recreation, including fishing, Pursuit Boats are generally seen as being made with more “creature comforts” than other brands aimed more at the hardcore fisherman.

In particular, where another brand might have more space for livewells or gutting fish, the Pursuit will have longer, more comfortable seating or additional electronics.

Similarly, they are not as focused on top speed as they are in the ride’s comfort. While they are designed with being offshore in mind, the emphasis is more on relaxing and recreation once you are offshore than performance in getting there.

Since they have been partnered with Yamaha for several decades, the reliability of their engines is noted throughout the industry.

The wiring and the hardware are also recognized as being top-notch.

How Durable Are Pursuit Boats?

The durability of Pursuit Boats is seen as being among the best in the marine business.

They use the best materials and processes, which Leon Slikkers had emphasized since he left Chris Craft to form his own companies.

While Pursuit still uses wood in some of its construction – which turns some people off – all wood is enclosed in several layers of high-quality fiberglass, and all holes drilled for hardware are solidly bedded.

Their hulls are reinforced by their composite fiberglass stringer grid system, which leaves the bilge area finished rather than raw.

The hulls have a five-year warranty, and the gel coat also has a five-year warranty against blisters.

One owner, writing in 2019, summed up the durability of his Pursuit after 25 years:

“I’m running a 1994 26′ WA…The inside and outside of the hull is solid and has held up very well over the years…the non-skid is perhaps the best I’ve seen as far a how it has held up…I haven’t found any stress cracks anywhere except for two small ones in the hardtop.”

[Source: The Hull Truth]

What About Older Pursuit Boats?

S2 has an excellent reputation in the industry for quality manufacturing.

Everything from the design to materials to the construction process to the fit and finish is recognized as among the best in the industry. As Pursuit is a premium brand, there were no shortcuts taken.

This original commitment to quality established the brand as one of the best on the market.

One of the biggest concerns that the online community has voiced concerning Pursuit is how the acquisition by Malibu will affect the brand.

As it has all been very recent, planned changes have yet to take effect except for minor changes in the lines, and most owners of newer models report that the quality is still top of the line.

Do They Still Make Parts For Older Models?

Some older parts for boats no longer in production are still being made, but it is unclear from their website how far back their store of replacement parts goes.

Owners needing parts are encouraged to contact their dealer to locate such parts.

For parts that are no longer in production, the Pursuit owner has a couple of options. The first is the Pursuit Boat Owners Forum, which is dedicated solely to owners of the brand. It is an active and supported forum, with many inquiries concerning particular replacement parts.

Several online retailers exclusively sell replacement parts for all brands, including Pursuit Boats. The largest are greatlakesskipper.com, boatoutfitters.com, and boatseabass.com.

Pursuit Boats has owners manuals going back several decades to help identify older parts.

What Are Typical Problems With Pursuit Boats?

Given their emphasis on construction quality, there are not many problems considered typical of the brand.

That being said, there have been a few problems in manufacturing that have been identified in certain parts of their history.

Probably the biggest was some wood rot problems in specific hulls from the late 1990s and early 2000s. From the data provided by the few owners that had this problem, it seems that some of the thru-hull fittings leaked into the fiberglass, allowing water to get into the wood coring.

There is debate on whether this was some poor oversight during the manufacturing or whether it was a result of industry-wide construction standards.

In the late 2000s, there were some owners that had problems with fuel fumes. This problem was traced to some of the fuel tanks being plastic and seemed to be solved by changing the venting.

There was an issue on some cuddy cabin models in the late 2000s, with leaking in the top liner. These issues were tracked down to some of the wiper motors being defective.

Finally, 178 3400 Express models from 1997 were recalled in 2002 due to faulty electrical wiring. The recall was closed in 2005.

How Long Do Pursuit Boats Last Compared To Similar Brands?

Pursuit Boats build their craft to last, and their customer service is recognized as being among the best in the industry, should owners have any issues with their boats, warranty or not.

The main caveat here, as always, is the care that an owner takes in their boat. If they do not keep up maintenance and winterize, any ship will begin to deteriorate, regardless of the quality of its construction.

But Pursuit Boats are recognized as being exceptionally durable, as five decades of manufacturing can attest to.

It is not uncommon to see Pursuit boats from the 1990s or even the 1980s on the water, particularly along the east coast of the United States.

Do Pursuit Boats Hold Their Value?

Pursuit boats hold their value well, ranging from better-than-average to very favorable.

Their C 260 26-foot center console with a Yamaha 350 horsepower outboard was sold in 2015 for $132,970. That model has a current average resale value of $104,650, for depreciation of 22%. This is slightly above average depreciation.

The OS 345 36-foot offshore sport yacht sold new in 2015 for $401,490. Currently, that model has an average resale value of $350,950 for a depreciation of 13%, which is remarkable for a luxury boat in that price range.

Are Pursuit Boats Still Being Made?

Pursuit Boats are still being made in Fort Pierce, Florida, where they had moved in 1983.

Since the acquisition by Malibu Boats, they have been gradually changing their lines.

The boats are built with a variable degree of customization as a premium brand based on the particular model. They do not advertise any pricing online. Instead, they direct prospective buyers to their nearest dealers.

They currently only manufacture one model they refer to as a center console, the 24-foot C238. They make five models of dual consoles, from the 25-foot DC245 to the 38-foot DC365.

They make three models of their Offshore cabin cruisers, ranging from the 33-foot OS325 to the 40-foot OS385.

Their line of Sport Boat models is built around the center console concept. These run from the 27-foot S268 to the huge 43-foot S428.

Final Thoughts

Pursuit Boats has earned its status as a top-tier boat over five decades of quality boat-building and service.

As they move forward, the eyes of the marine industry will be on how the acquisition by Malibu will eventually affect them.

So far, there seems to be no drop-off in quality, and they are still manufacturing some of the most comfortable offshore boats in the business.

Pursuit Boats – Home

Malibu Enters Agreement to Acquire Pursuit Boats – Boating Industry

Pursuit Quality – The Hull Truth

Pursuit Boats Owners Forum

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