Houseboat Magazine — January 2018

32 JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2018 WWW.HOUSEBOATMAGAZINE.COM

Sumerset is set for a lot longer than just the summer. Since
1953, Sumerset has been cranking out beautifully designed and
easy-going houseboats. It all started when Jim Sharpe built a
10- by 24-foot steel bottom with a scow bow more than 60 years
ago, and today we see how the fruits of that one project have
proliferated. Sharpe envisioned Sumerset as a quality crafter of
houseboats, and that became its unique identity. In 2010, Sumerset
joined Trifecta Ventures and now grows under that umbrella, while
still distinguishing its craft by clinging to Sharpe’s vision.
As the company grows, it aims to build low-maintenance vessels
while focusing on a better hull and stronger frame with improved
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success in years past. And with the timeless glass wall construc-
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apart from the others.

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6PDOOHVW+RXVHERDWWR'DWH 10’ X 35’

/DUJHVW+RXVHERDWWR'DWH 20’ X 100’

+XOO'HVLJQAll Aluminum Mono Hulls

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,QKRXVH,QWHULRU'HFRUDWLQJYes

Owner Quote
“I just purchased a 2018 Sumerset houseboat and I can tell
you that the entire process was exciting and very professional. We
can’t say enough good things about Chris Girdler, he was on top of
L]LY[OPUNZ[HY[[VÄUPZO[VTHRLZ\YLL]LY[OPUN^HZ[OL^H^L wanted and his attention to detail was second to none. Debbie in the design center was awesome, she was great to work with and has a great eye for the interior design of the boat. This is not my ÄYZ[OV\ZLIVH[HUKP[PZHILH\[PM\SI\[P[WYVIHIS^PSSUV[ILT`

last because the build process is just too much fun.

–Paul Robinson, Owner of Another Approach

Looking to 2018

Being the oldest and most well-known name in the industry,

Sumerset anticipates continuing to see an up-tick in orders as

2017 was the best year for the company since 2008. Sumerset is

building a large array of custom houseboats along with large rental

ÅLL[Z[OYV\NOV\[[OLJV\U[Y`PU;OLPU[LYLZ[PU:\TLYZL[OHZ

continued to grow tremendously over the past several years.

What’s Trending Now?

“While Sumerset continues to set benchmarks for quality as well

as overall brand awareness, we see a trend toward value. Many

houseboat clients are looking for custom-build vessels, yet hoping

[VRLLW[OL[YHKP[PVUHSOV\ZLIVH[MLLSHUKÅHYLHSVUN^P[OHOPZ[VYP-

cally high resale value.”

• Chris Girdler, Trifecta President

Sumerset Houseboats

606-340-3191

http://www.sumerset.com