02-10-2026
YANMAR Strengthens US West Coast Presence with Boatswain’s Locker Acquisition
YANMAR Strengthens US West Coast Presence with Boatswain’s Locker Acquisition
Almere, The Netherlands – YANMAR has acquired Boatswain’s Locker, Inc., currently its distributor for the West Coast of the USA. This enables YANMAR to work more closely with its customers in that region in close cooperation with Mastry Engine Center, and put its strategy into action, aimed at growth of the wider YANMAR Marine Recreational business.
Building on the strong foundation established by Boatswain’s Locker, including its customer care, service reputation, and significant market presence, YANMAR’s new integrated organization can deliver faster support, deeper technical knowledge, and a more connected customer experience.
The structure will help grow dealer and service capabilities on the West Coast of the USA, while ensuring American boatbuilders and owners benefit from closer collaboration across product development, sales, and aftersales support.
Boatswain’s Locker, established in 1939, has been the exclusive servicing distributor for YANMAR Marine International on the Western Coast of the United States, including California, Washington, Oregon, Alaska, and Hawaii.
This forms part of YANMAR’s extensive global service and dealer network, covering more than 2000 authorized dealers in over 130 countries.
Boatswain’s Locker is also a distributor for VETUS, part of the YANMAR Marine Recreational Business Unit which delivers total solutions as a leading engine and equipment manufacturer and includes VETUS Maxwell, Flexofold and Smartgyro.
Robert Apted will remain as President of Boatswain’s Locker Inc. under YANMAR’s ownership to ensure smooth integration of the acquisition, whilst creating maximum synergy between YANMAR and Boatswain’s Locker.
Wouter-Jan van der Wurff, President and CEO YANMAR’s Marine Recreational Business Unit said: “We see this as a valuable opportunity and an important milestone for both YANMAR’s Recreational Marine Business and the Boatswain’s Locker team. It builds on our strong partnership, aligns with our strategic direction, and supports our shared ambitions for future growth.’’
Kevin Carlan, Director of Americas Business, YANMAR’s Marine Recreational Business Unit, said: “Boatswain’s Locker has earned an outstanding reputation through decades of dedication to customers, dealers, and service excellence across the Western United States. By bringing Boatswain’s Locker directly into the YANMAR organization, we are strengthening our commitment to this important market and creating new opportunities to better support boat owners, dealers, and builders throughout the region.”
Robert Apted, President of Boatswain’s Locker Inc., said: “By becoming an even closer part of the YANMAR organization, we can combine our local knowledge, trusted dealer relationships, and service expertise with the strength of the wider YANMAR Marine Recreational Business Unit. For customers, this means even faster support, closer access to product specialists, and a more seamless experience throughout the ownership journey. We are proud of our long-standing partnership with YANMAR, and this next step will help us deliver even greater value.”
For more information on YANMAR Marine International, visit:
For further information or images, please contact the YANMAR team at McKenna Townsend by calling +44(0)1425 472330 or emailing yanmar@mckennatownsend.com
About YANMAR Marine International
YANMAR Marine International (YMI) is driven to create innovative, environmentally responsible marine propulsion solutions through the exploration and progression of advanced technologies. With sustainability at its heart, the YMI mission is to meet the evolving needs of its customers as a trusted partner, supplying cutting-edge products and systems which enhance our customers experiences.
The sustainable solutions from YMI are built to help customers take the next step on their journey to minimize their CO2 footprint, while fulfilling their appetite for life-affirming adventure on the water and requirements for onboard comfort. YMI continues to grow its network of service centers worldwide, providing quick and reliable support in over 130 countries.
Based in the Netherlands, YMI is incorporated within YANMAR’s global operations and forms part of the Marine Recreational Business Unit, one of seven rapidly expanding business domains that span land and sea. With a comprehensive portfolio of products, services, and expertise, the Marine Recreational Business Unit delivers total solutions as a leading engine and equipment manufacturer and includes YANMAR, Vetus, Maxwell, Flexofold and Smartgyro.
With its beginnings in Osaka, Japan in 1912, YANMAR is driven by its founding mission to benefit mankind and by a pioneering spirit for world-leading technology. Its offerings include small and large engines, agricultural machinery, construction equipment, energy systems, marine engines, machine tools, components, and advanced facilities.
