Raglan Boat Charters is looking for a new owner to take the established harbour tourism business into its next chapter.
Founded by Charlie Young in 2010, the business was later taken over and developed by current owner Andrew Stump. The sale includes the 15-metre commercial catamaran Wahinemoe, established booking and operating systems, forward bookings, vehicles and equipment, along with the staff contracts with existing crew and skippers.
Owner Andrew Stump says the business offers a distinctly local experience, with cruises beginning in the heart of Whāingaroa Harbour rather than requiring a long journey to reach the scenery.
The business currently offers lunchtime nature cruises, sunset trips and private charters. Andrew believes there is further potential for a new owner to grow the operation and develop stronger local iwi storytelling.
The Chronicle speaks with Andrew about the business and his decision to sell:
Tell us about the history of Raglan Boat Charters and how it has developed in recent years.
Charlie Young started Raglan Boat Charters in 2010 as an extension of the Raglan Surf School and Karioi Lodge, which he ran with Erin. The early focus was the backpacker market and eco trips to the eel farm at Ōhautira. Captain Barlow (Fairmont Rawiri) has crewed and skippered the boat since that time, and as a Waingaro hapū member he has close ties to the harbour.
What is the range of experiences you offer?
Three key products:
– The lunchtime nature cruise that suits young families and older visitors,
– The sunset cruise for romantics, friends and a general wind down, and
– Private charter parties, for whatever fun and adventure our guests need.
Why have you decided to sell the business?
I had a plan back in 2020, and this is me executing it. Over the years I’ve made a lot of improvements to the boat, projects I genuinely enjoyed, and I’m reaching the point where I’ve run out of changes to make. There’s potential to grow further, particularly around developing the local iwi narrative, and I think someone else is better placed to take that forward than me.
What have you enjoyed about owning and operating this coastal business?
I came from an industry where it was very hard to please the customer. I’ve always been fascinated by the joy people get from being on Wahinemoe, from their interaction with nature, our crew, and sharing the Raglan vibe with everyone aboard.
What do you believe are its greatest strengths and assets?
The harbour is small enough that we don’t need to travel far from the wharf to get that raw nature feeling. We don’t motor for hours to reach the destination, we start in it. Our crew are passionate about what they do and where they live, and that comes through on every trip. We are a real fair dinkum kiwi experience available to everyone.
Q and A with Melanie Carroll (agent) about what is included and the type of buyer the opportunity could suit.
What does the business package include for a potential buyer?
The package includes proven day-to-day systems that simplify operations, all forward bookings, the 15-metre commercial catamaran Wahinemoe (certified to carry 70 passengers plus five crew), a Mazda ute, and a RIB tender on a registered trailer. The existing crew and skippers are also included, providing continuity and a smooth transition for the new owner.
Who would this business suit in terms of skills and lifestyle?
This business suits a wide range of buyers seeking a strong income with the flexibility of self-employment. Its key strength is its simplicity, with established systems and processes that make management straightforward. The current owner runs the business from home, spending around five hours a week on admin, bookings and general oversight, making it an ideal lifestyle-focused, home-based opportunity. It’s also a great fit for a couple wanting to run the boat together.
Who should you contact to find out more?
For more information, contact Melanie Carroll of Ray White. Melanie can provide the full information package including financials, answer any questions, and arrange a viewing of the boat.
Email: melanie.carroll@raywhite.com
