Iconic American boatbuilder Bertram Yachts announced this week that Peter Truslow joined the company as chief executive officer. Truslow comes to Bertram after spending more than two decades as president of EdgeWater Boats in New Smyrna, Fla., building its line of high-quality, multi-use offshore boats into a successful brand.
Truslow said the historic 56-year-old brand already is well established in the hearts and minds of boaters and anglers everywhere.
“For me, Bertram presents a very exciting opportunity to help grow a classic American brand,” he said. “I have known this brand my entire life and believe in what it stands for — offshore performance, durability and American styling. I have spent time with [Bertram’s parent company] the Gavio Group and the Bertram team. Their passion and vision for the business matches mine. The designs for the new Bertram boat models are excellent. They have made all the right moves as they set the foundation and vision for the new Bertram. I look forward to executing this vision with this great and growing team.”
Tommy Thompson, Bertram’s product development manager, welcomed Truslow aboard.
“We’ve got a half-dozen of these Bertram 35s already sold and tons of interest in seeing the boat in person, not to mention all the interest in the new 58,” Thompson said. “Peter brings us the production leadership and love of the Bertram brand we need to build these boats and execute our plan for Bertram’s future.”
Bertram general manager Susan Davids called Truslow a great addition.
“We’re glad that Peter is joining the team and bringing with him the manufacturing expertise we need to help grow the company,” Davids said.
Bertram Yacht got its start in 1960 when founder Dick Bertram — yacht broker, bluewater sailing-yacht racer and powerboat racer — built the first Bertram, the 31-foot Moppie. Built to replicate the deep-vee hull that smashed records in the 1960 Miami to Nassau Ocean Power Boat Race, the Bertram 31 launched a line of performance and sportfishing boats ranging up to 80 feet that would be known for their excellent ride and seakeeping in unforgiving conditions.
The company and its legend grew, thanks to many noteworthy models, including the Bertram 28, 46 and 54, which made their mark on the fishing world.
In 2015, Bertram was acquired by a group headed by Beniamino Gavio. The boatbuilding entrepreneur and avid boater is involved with Baglietto and CCN and is committed to returning the iconic American brand to its roots.