Baxter Marine Group has announced the acquisition of Wheelhouse Technologies, Vessel Vanguard and SeaKit Brands.
The combined companies support over 3,000 commercial, military, charter and recreational watercraft worldwide. Intuitive user tools, mobile applications, work orders, inventory and advanced telematics give owners and operators complete command of their vessel’s operations.
“Our goal is to provide the marine industry with the most advanced and intuitive systems to improve vessel reliability, safety, and reduce operational costs significantly,” said Baxter Marine Group Chairman Rick Heine.
Don Hyde, founder of Vessel Vanguard, added: “We created this application space ten years ago and it has evolved into an indispensable tool to reduce warranty claims and elevate customer satisfaction. This transaction infuses financial resources and technical expertise driving an innovative customer experience that will be unique in the industry.”
Barry Kallander, founder of Wheelhouse Technologies, Inc. and SeaKit Brands, believes this partnership is a significant next step in the evolution of computerized maintenance management. “When I founded WheelHouse, our vision was to provide an innovative solution that simplified the management of vessel maintenance, spare parts and documents,” he said. “As the industry continues to get more complex, I see this acquisition as a way to continue to build on the promise we made to our customers.”
Baxter CEO April Stercula stated: “With the collective experience of the executive team coupled with the industry capability and expertise of Vessel Vanguard and Wheelhouse personnel, I am confident we will revolutionize the way boats and commercial vessels are maintained and supported.”
About Baxter Marine Group
Baxter Marine Group was founded in 2021 by Rick Heine and April Stercula along with the leadership team that revolutionized maintenance, inventory and compliance software in the aviation industry. The mission of the company is to expand and strengthen marine maintenance management capabilities for commercial, military charter and recreational boat owners and operators.
About Vessel Vanguard
Vessel Vanguard was founded by Donald Hyde, a sailor and technology entrepreneur, in 2013. The cloud-based software application provides automated task management with a range of functions to simplify the ownership and maintenance of boats of all sizes, age and missions.
About Wheelhouse Technologies, Inc.
Wheelhouse Technologies, Inc. was founded in 2006 by Barry Kallander, submarine service veteran and USCG Licensed Master with a vision to improve the availability and reliability of yachts and workboats through sound maintenance practices. The company developed Wheelhouse Yacht Solutions and Wheelhouse Fleet Solutions, cloud-based maintenance management systems for single vessels and fleets.
