Whisper Marine has acquired Heyday Boats from Brunswick Corporation, adding the American wake and surf brand to a portfolio that already includes Crownline Boats, Navion Boats and Whisper Pontoons.
The purchase, announced on 30 October 2026, sees Heyday production relocate to Crownline's factory in West Frankfort, Illinois. Whisper has committed to maintaining dealer relationships and supporting existing customers, though it has not confirmed when manufacturing will begin at the new facility.
Heyday has built its reputation on making purpose-designed wake and surf boats accessible to families. Its inboard-powered range includes four models from 20ft to 23ft 1in, with engine options from 320hp to 409hp and ballast systems to shape wakes for watersports. The flagship WTSurf carries 2,800lb (approximately 1,270kg) of ballast and features flexible cockpit seating with a walk-through to the swim platform.
Paul Hoilman, chief operating officer of Whisper USA, said the brand had made the sport reachable for families who never thought a surf boat was in the cards.
The acquisition marks Whisper Marine's third in less than a year, following Qwest Pontoons in December 2025 and Crownline in June 2026. The company, the marine division of Whisper USA headquartered in Johnson City, Tennessee, also manufactures spas, utility vehicles and other outdoor leisure products.
Brunswick acquired Heyday in 2016. Vittorio Bichucher, president of Brunswick's Venture Boat Group, said Whisper Marine was "well positioned to lead the next chapter of Heyday's growth and success." Brunswick has not disclosed the sale price or detailed its reasons for the divestment.
The deal follows Brunswick's third quarter results, which showed a 9 per cent annual increase in Boat division sales.
In New Zealand, Heyday boats are sold through Lakeland Marine at Taupō Marina, which identifies itself as a direct importer from the United States. The acquisition raises practical questions for local customers about import arrangements, warranty coverage on existing boats, and parts availability for ballast and wake control systems. Whisper's announcement emphasises dealer continuity but does not address these specifics.
Hoilman said Whisper intended to invest in the brand and work with established dealers. "To Heyday dealers, our message is simple: we're committed to this brand, we're going to invest in it, and we want to grow with you."
The transition involves moving specialist watersports production into an established facility. Crownline says it has delivered more than 90,000 boats and water-tests every vessel on its own Lake Crownline. Whisper has not detailed what modifications will be needed for Heyday's hulls and systems, nor whether any model changes are planned.
