Grand Banks and Palm Beach Motor Yachts have moved well beyond the conventional build-and-sell transaction, establishing a dedicated Owners Club in Newport, Rhode Island, as a clear statement of intent that the relationship with customers continues long after a vessel leaves the factory.
The club opened on 11 June with a waterfront reception at 1 Spring Wharf, where owners, team members and guests gathered over hors d'oeuvres and cocktails for a ribbon cutting, flag raising and cannon salute to mark the occasion.
Newport's credentials made it a natural fit for the venture. The city occupies a central place in the global yachting calendar, hosting world-class sailing and prestigious regattas while offering a summer season that extends to fine dining, live music, polo, golf and historic architecture. The 1 Spring Wharf address puts owners at the heart of all of it, with harbour views, a putting green and dedicated gathering spaces accessible throughout the warmer months.
What distinguishes the club from a standard marina or dealership arrangement is the direct line it draws back to both brands' factory model. Owners have a single point of contact across sales, service and support, connecting them to the very people who designed, built and commissioned their vessels, without navigating intermediaries.
CEO and Chief Designer Mark Richards was candid about the purpose behind the initiative. "This is about creating something special for our owners," he said. "This is more than a facility, it's a destination for owners to feel connected to their yachts, to Newport, to our team, and to the wider Grand Banks and Palm Beach Motor Yachts community."
The Newport Owners Club is located at 1 Spring Wharf, Newport, Rhode Island.
