65 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

An inspiring history. An exciting future.

The history of Sea Ray is filled with firsts, but the story of where we are today is best told by going behind the scenes at our manufacturing facility in Vonore, Tennessee. The experience of our master craftspeople works together to create the luxurious sport boats and sport cruisers that enhance your time on the water. 

Sea Ray honors the tradition of elevated quality today, providing a remarkable experience for everyone aboard. It’s no wonder that Sea Ray is one of the most respected names in boating.

THE BEGINNING

What started in 1959 as a small recreational fiberglass boat builder has grown into one of the largest and most well-known pleasure boating companies in the world. Our founder’s passion for building premium recreational boats has persisted to the present, as proven in our commitment to unwavering quality and timely innovation.

SEA RAY THROUGH THE DECADES

1959

IN THE BEGINNING

Sea Ray was founded by C.N. Ray after he purchased assets from Carr-Craft, a small fiberglass manufacturer in Detroit. The company began operations with only three employees: C.N. Ray, Carr-Craft’s fiberglass specialist and designer, Jerry Michalak and Ray’s business partner Arch Mehaffey.

1960s

RAMPING UP

Sea Ray ramped up production in Oxford, Michigan and unveiled its first lineup. It established a network of the best dealers in the country that were committed to excellent customer support. Sea Ray boats gained a reputation in the emerging fiberglass boat industry for expertly designed and top-performing boats.

1970s

THE BIRTH OF AN ICON

Sea Ray’s new corporate headquarters, including production and product development facilities, opened in Phoenix, AZ. It also established its manufacturing facility in Merritt Island, FL—one that produces Sea Rays still today. The iconic Sundancer was released, defining the cabin cruiser for the industry.

1980s

EXCELLENCE AND EXPANSION

Sea Ray opened its plant in Vonore, Tennessee which produces the majority of Sea Ray models to this day. In 1986, Sea Ray joined the Brunswick family of brands, and soon thereafter opened its first international plant. By the late 80s Sea Ray offered more than 50 models and served boaters around the world. 

1990s

LEGIONS OF HAPPY OWNERS

Sea Ray produced a wide variety of models, from the 16-foot Ski Ray to the 65-foot 650 Cockpit Motor Yacht. Sea Ray was the first marine manufacturer to offer a comprehensive owner-based benefits and privileges package. Launched in 1996, the Sea Ray Owners Club is a robust and growing community. Sea Ray also became the first recreational fiberglass boat manufacturer with all production facilities operating under the ISO 9002 quality system.

2000s

YEARS OF ADVANCEMENT

Sea Ray held a broad boat and yacht portfolio, from bowriders to large sedan bridge cruisers, including the Weekender, Amberjack, Sundancer and Sport models. Sea Ray also reintroduced outboard models to its lineup, and embraced emerging technologies like touchscreen helm electronics and robotic manufacturing processes. The brand also officially moved its headquarters to Knoxville, TN.

2010s

ERA OF TRANSITION

This decade ushered in an era of transition for the company. The lineup included small sport boats, large sedan-bridge models and the introduction of the L-Class yacht series. As the 2010s came to a close, Sea Ray had redefined its portfolio with a reinvigorated focus on its core business of sport boat and sport cruisers under 40 feet and expanded its offerings of outboard-powered models.

Today

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

Sea Ray’s new design language was established with the launch of the Sundancer 370. More powerful outboards are compatible with larger boats so that currently, each model in the lineup is available in sterndrive and outboard. Sea Ray continues to innovate to bring boaters elevated experiences on the water through intuitive technology and superior, effortless performance. 

 

 

 

THE EVOLUTION OF A LOGO

 

As the brand has evolved over the decades, our logo has also changed with the times. Always representing our driving philosophy of subtle luxury and seamless design, it remains distinctively Sea Ray.

1960s

1970s

1980s

Today

 

 

 

OUR DEALER NETWORK

 

Sea Ray works with a superior network of dealers around the world to provide unwavering support to our loyal customers, and many of them have been in business as long as we have. Find yours and begin your steps toward ownership today.

SHOW YOUR SEA RAY PRIDE

Celebrate the 65th Anniversary with a variety of bold and stylish Sea Ray apparel items. From hats to tees, we have your favorite comfort wear ready so you can relax and enjoy the day in luxury.

 

Since 1986, Sea Ray has been part of Brunswick Corporation, a global leader in marine recreation dedicated to transforming experiences on the water and beyond. With marine expertise spanning 17 different boat brands, Mercury Marine engines and Simrad electronics, customers can expect the same commitment to quality and ease-of-use in every pursuit on the water. At Brunswick, we believe “Next Never Rests™” and that’s why we’re constantly innovating to elevate and enhance boating for all.

 

 

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