In 1978, when Saunders Engine Company already had 20 years of commercial marine diesel engine service experience, we recognized the need to develop a service offering specifically designed for our customers in the pleasure craft market. As the number of call for yacht engine service increased, we started with one man in one van. From that day to this, we have conitinued to respond to the needs of our customers and grown into the premier bow to stern yacht service provider along the Gulf Coast.
By 1991, the growing demand for yacht service led to Saunders increasing the number of technicians in the field. To this group we added focused management and parts support. Saunders Yacht Services Division was born with a total of eight employees. Still dispatching from our Mobile, AL, corporate headquarters, our vans and technicians were providing engine service all over the coast. The strength of our relationships with the major engine manufacturers, Detroit Diesel, Caterpillar, and Cummins, provided the foundation for our growth in this new market. Our dedication to customer service provided the application and energy.
Two moves over the next four years brought our yacht mechanical service operation to Orange Beach, AL, and then to the boatyard in Orange Beach Marina. It was this last relocation that brought together all the pieces of Saunders Yachtworks as we know it today. At the boatyard, we combined our already established yacht mechanics with a fledgling, but dedicated group of yacht craftsmen. We also had the framework of the facility to run a bow to stern service operation. In 1995, our number was 20 employees.
For the last 10 years at the Orange Beach Marina we have been enhancing this operation in specific strategic areas -
Investment in facilities
Employee growth and development (now 35!)
Expansion of service offerings
Yacht qualified management
We are pleased to say that our investment in these business fundamentals has provided some outstanding results to our customers. The combination of mechanical and boatyard services, with the facility to exercise care and custody of the customer vessel, create an atmosphere for the delivery of all vessel services. Projects large and small are delivered daily to satisfied customers.
Today’s yachts are growing in size and more complexity. Our customers demand a service provider that can meet the technical and logistical challenges while staying grounded in fair treatment. Saunders Yachtworks brings all the elements to you!
