Brooks Atkinson, a long-time theatre critic for the New York Times who failed in his bid to join the Navy, once offered his opinion that “land was created to provide a place for boats to visit”. While some cottagers may opt for long lazy days lounging on the dock, we suspect that Atkinson’s sentiment rings true in many ears. But it’s also a fact that not all boats are created equal.
In this issue of HIDEAWAYS, we investigate the one boat that permeates the Muskoka cottage backdrop more thoroughly than any other — Cobalt Boats. It’s almost impossible to go anywhere on the big lakes without seeing the iconic hull styling and distinctive stance of Cobalt.
So just what is it that makes Cobalt so prolific? We did some research to help explain why it seems to be the predominant choice of discerning boaters. But, first, let’s take a look at how it all began.
To many Canadians, Kansas is known only for its legendary tornadoes, evoking the image of Dorothy and her little dog Toto tumbling into the bizarre Land of Oz. It is a landlocked state, miles away from any major lakes. But, oddly enough, this is the birthplace and current location of Cobalt Boats, developed in 1968 by a young Kansas native named Pack St. Clair.
Actually, it was pure serendipity that launched St. Clair into the business of boat building. Partnering with a neighbour, he initially started a business manufacturing massive fibreglass slides, but certain liability issues eventually dissuaded him. A true entrepreneur, he took his knowledge of fibreglass into the world of boat manufacturing and soon realized that, to be competitive, he had to find a niche market. The 28-year-old St. Clair determined to produce a top-of-the-line boat, christening it ‘Cobalt’ — named for the accelerator that causes resin to cure and become hard.
Now, almost 50 years later, Cobalt Boats is a state-of-the-art facility located in the small town of Neodesha, Kansas. The firm continues to stand at the forefront of innovation, developing lines that appeal to a variety of boating styles while maintaining the highest standards of excellence. Customer service is at the heart of their success, and they select only those dealers who share the same philosophy.
Cobalt has no aspiration to become the biggest boat company — just to be the best, distinguishing themselves as boat ‘builders’ rather than ‘assemblers’, with all elements fabricated at the plant. Their technical experts are dedicated to progressive research and development, leveraging fine craftsmanship against technological advances to produce boats that deliver fine performance and exceptional engineering.
“Cobalt is the best boat in North America because it is solid and dependable, and it handles exceptionally well,” explains John Dunn of Walker’s Point Marina. “Cobalt handles both the design and manufacturing of their boats and I believe that this is one of the critical elements that set Cobalt apart in the luxury boat market."
“We started carrying Cobalt boats in 1982,” says John. “There are only four Cobalt dealers in Ontario, and we are the sole Muskoka representative.” The partnership with Cobalt is rewarding for both parties, with mutual enthusiasm for quality, loyalty, and exceptional customer service.
According to Walker’s Point Marina’s John Dunn, there are hundreds of things that work together to create the Cobalt experience. “From the materials chosen for hardware through to the hull design of each model, the difference is in Cobalt’s uncompromising attention to details.”
“When I take someone out in the Cobalt for the first time, they get about 100 feet from the dock and tell me, ‘I didn’t think a boat could be like this!’” says Walker’s Point Sales Representative, Bruce Reid.
Recognizing the importance of the helm as the control station, the instruments and gauges are secured to aluminum panels that withstand time and weather far more efficiently than plastic pieces. A peek behind the helm reveals the quality of the wiring, providing electrical stability for the boat’s lifetime. High-quality barrier coats are exclusive to Cobalt, and the stainless steel hardware and electropolishing techniques prevent corrosion.
“The new stern-drive system invented by Volvo-Penta is a real evolution in the luxury boat market,” declares John. Recognized with the Marine Innovation Award at this year’s Miami International Boat Show, Cobalt Boats is integrating this forward-facing drive into their new watersport series.
With a multi-use advantage, the same boat model can now accommodate both cruising and wakesurfing. “Rather than spending $100,000 each for two boats, you can buy just one that does double duty for about $125,000 to $150,000,” explains Bruce.
Reshaping the wake sports experience, the new Volvo Penta Forward Drive is positioned under the boat instead of behind it. There is much less noise and exhaust, which produces a safer and more comfortable ride. “And it can be adjusted from the helm to throw an absolute monster of a wake,” says John.
The word about Cobalt has clearly gotten out: they are seen more and more frequently on our lakes, and many people nod knowledgeably when the name is mentioned.
“Cobalt is really a premium boat,” says John. “We are so proud to include it in our line-up.” He notes that many clients are trading up from the other makes, after experiencing it as a test ride or as a guest on someone else’s boat. Bruce adds, “The thing I really love about selling Cobalts is that I’ve never had to return a deposit or take back a boat because it didn’t handle properly. In fact, if you buy a Cobalt first, it’s unlikely that you’ll ever buy another boat … unless it’s another Cobalt.” CCH
Select Photos: Robert Nelson
