Suntex and Windward Marina Group Merge to Expand their Florida Marina Network

Suntex and Windward Marina Group Merge to Expand Florida's Marina Network

In a significant development for the recreational boating industry, Suntex Marina Investors LLC, in partnership with Centerbridge Partners, L.P., has announced a merger with Windward Marina Group, a prominent Florida-based marina network. This merger marks a pivotal expansion for Suntex, which adds 13 marinas and over 3,000 boat slips to its already substantial portfolio of over 100 marinas across the United States.

Enhancing the Recreational Boating Experience

The newly acquired marinas are located in Florida's flourishing boating markets, which reinforce the state’s leading position in recreational boating participation. This strategic endeavor aims to elevate marina experiences across the Sunshine State while preserving the distinctive character of each location.

Suntex's CEO, Bryan Redmond, emphasized that the merger is a strategic collaboration designed to enhance the boater experience. The addition of these marinas will not only provide more options but will also create a seamlessly connected coastal network, featuring Suntex marinas near major inlets, from Miami to Amelia Island.

Windward Marina Group has experienced rapid growth since its inception, transforming from a single marina to a premier player in Florida's marina sector in less than seven years. This success has been driven by their robust operational model and expertise in waterfront infrastructure management. By maintaining strong relationships with multi-generational, family-owned operators, Windward has ensured that each marina retains its legacy while optimizing operations and promoting sustainable growth.

The Strategic Importance of Florida

Florida is currently witnessing an unprecedented surge in new residents and boating engagement, solidifying its position as a central hub of the U.S. recreational marine economy. The merger is a testament to Suntex's commitment to supporting and enhancing the boating lifestyle, through improved waterfront infrastructure and accessibility to high-quality marina experiences.

Matt Dabrowski, Senior Managing Director and Co-Head of Real Estate at Centerbridge Partners, stated that the merger reflects Suntex's strategic aim to expand in high-growth coastal markets, particularly in Florida, where the demand for boating facilities is robust, and new supply remains limited.

The newly included marinas span key locations like Amelia Island, Jacksonville Beach, St. Augustine, and Pensacola. Each site caters to a diverse range of boating lifestyles, from fishing and cruising to luxurious waterfront dining. This variety not only diversifies the guest experience but also enhances support for Florida's coastal communities.

Innovation and Guest Experience

Windward's CEO, Stefan Johansson, expressed enthusiasm about the merger, citing the operational depth and brand stewardship that Suntex brings to the table. This partnership allows Windward marinas to maintain their unique characteristics while unlocking new opportunities for innovation in guest experiences. Integration also entails introducing enhanced guest services and technology-driven communication systems to improve enjoyment and convenience on the water.

Through this merger, Suntex aims to uphold the highest standards of operation while ensuring that local teams experience continuity. By aligning best practices across the united platform, Suntex seeks not only to scale but to elevate quality and service levels across its network.

A Vision for the Future

Redmond underscored that the focus of Suntex's growth strategy has always been on quality rather than mere scale. He believes that through collaborative mergers such as this, they can create remarkable boating experiences that resonate with customers and establish a resilient marina network for the future.

As the recreational boating landscape evolves, Suntex's integration with Windward Marina Group symbolizes a promising future for marina operations in Florida, offering boaters more choices and elevated experiences across the state’s beautiful coastlines.

For more detailed information about Suntex Marina Investors and this exciting new development, visit their website at www.suntex.com.