OUR HISTORY

Since 1996: Growing Into What We Are Today

Over the years, Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales has expanded, becoming a major force in the marine industry and solidifying its reputation as a leader in both boat and yacht sales.

1971

The Beginning

Greg Krueger joins Jefferson Beach Marina and quickly rises to the top, becoming the leading sales representative in just six months. Working alongside Alvin Wagner, they foster relationships with iconic boat brands such as Trojan, Bertram, Formula, and Wellcraft.

1976

Partnership with Viking

Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales becomes a dealer for Viking, and to this day, remains the longest-tenured Viking dealer in the world, solidifying a lasting partnership with one of the most respected yacht brands.

1980
Late 1980s

A New Chapter and Challenges

Greg Krueger departs Jefferson Beach Marina to launch Excel Marine, leveraging his manufacturer relationships to breathe new life into his business. Meanwhile, the marine industry faced the challenges of a luxury tax. During this time, former partners Greg and Alvin reunite and merge their efforts under the name Jefferson Beach Marina, persevering through the industry's tough times.'

1994

JBYS Became a Sunseeker Dealer

6 Top servicing dealer awards

#1 Seller of the 74 ft Predator

1995

JBYS Became Princess Dealer

Earned Dealership of excellence in 2022

1996

The Birth of Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales

Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales (JBY) is officially established, growing into a dualfaceted company that handles both boat sales and yacht sales, serving a growing clientele.

1998
2000

Expansion Begins

JBY opens its second office in Bay Harbor, marking the start of the company’s expansion and broadening its reach across new markets.

2004

Charlevoix Location Established

Continuing its growth, JBY establishes another location in Charlevoix, further expanding its presence in Michigan and enhancing service to the boating community.

2005

Resilience Through Recession

Amidst the Michigan recession, Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales demonstrated resilience by expanding further into the Great Lakes market, opening a new location in Chicago. This strategic move allowed JBY to tap into a broader market while navigating challenging economic conditions.

2014

Became a Williams Dealer

2016

Became an Absolute Dealer

2017 JBYS earns top north American dealer

2018

Became an HCB Dealer

2021 first Great lakes 65 Estrella

2019

Valhalla Debuts & JYBS Became dealer

Formula, and Wellcraft.

2020

JBYS Became a Sailfish Dealer

2021

Expansion to Florida

In the midst of a turbulent supply chain market, JBY expanded into Florida by hiring Matt Huyge, a naval architect specializing in HCB, to further grow their business in a key market.

2024

JBYS becomes the firstNorth American Dealer SACS Rebel