Performance Sailcraft Europe acquires Ocean Play brand from RS Marine Group
Performance Sailcraft Europe (PSE) has acquired sailing dinghy brand Ocean Play from RS Marine Group, for an undisclosed sum.
The acquisition by Performance Sailcraft Europe incudes the manufacturing rights for the Bug, Pico, Vago, and Bahia dinghies from designer Jo Richards. Branding and distribution for the range have now transferred to PSE.
The Bug, Pico, Vago, and Bahia dinghies will continue to be manufactured in the UK by Rototek, with their tooling undergoing a significant refurbishment and enhancement program.
Richards said:
“I am delighted with the constructive talks between the parties involved and look forward to the ongoing quality production of the four boats for the foreseeable future.”
Performance Sailcraft Europe, part of the Performance Marine Group, is based in Rutland, UK, and specialises in sailing dinghies, including the ICLA classes, with plans to operate a new 18-hull charter fleet of ILCA dinghies this year. It also provides parts and rig packages.
Nick Ogden, Chairman of Performance Marine Group, said:
“Acquiring the Ocean Play range strengthens our commitment to high-quality, innovative sailcraft.
“Since acquiring Olympic-class ILCA builder Performance Sailcraft in Australia last year, we’ve invested significantly in facilities and innovation – including a new 22,000 sq ft, F1-standard manufacturing unit in Morisset.
“This year marks 55 years of continuous ILCA/Laser production, and to celebrate, we’re producing a special Heritage Edition of the original Laser ‘Weekender.’ Meanwhile, our Rascal endurance dinghy is nearing completion, following a successful 220-nautical-mile sea trial in the Adriatic.”
“With Ocean Play now part of our portfolio, we have grown to eight dinghies in eight months, with further acquisitions and global expansion planned for 2025.”
RS Marine Group, with its HQ in Romsey, Hampshire, was launched in 2022 following continued expansion and collaborations between RS Sailing, RS Electric Boats, and Cheetah Marine. The business has been designing products since 1989 and manufactures and distributes leisure, racing and commercial boats to individuals, sailing schools, race teams, and businesses. The group makes over 30 boats, including the RS Aero, RS Feva, RS21, Pulse 63, and Cheetah Power Catamarans.
Richard Frost, Operations Director at RS Marine Group, commented:
“We are working closely with PSE during this transition to ensure that the Ocean Play range remains a source of enjoyment for sailors globally. This is an exciting time for the marine industry, and we extend our best wishes to the team as they take the Ocean Play brand going forward.”