Nautique 100 Year Timeline

1925 ●
1926 ●
1928 ●
1936 ●
1937 ●
1942 ●
1945 ●
1948 ●
1950 ●
1953 ●
1957 ●
1961 ●
1966 ●
1977 ●
1979 ●
1981 ●
1983 ●
1986 ●
1990 ●
1993 ●
1997 ●
1999 ●
2000 ●
2001 ●
2004 ●
2009 ●
2010 ●
2011 ●
2012 ●
2013 ●
2016 ●
2018 ●
2019 ●
2020 ●
2021 ●
2024 ●
2025 ●
2026 ●
2027 ●

THROUGHOUT HISTORY

RELIABILITY ●

MANUFACTURING ●

NAUTIQUE CARES ●

WATERSPORTS INNOVATION ●

CYPRESS GARDEN YEARS ●

AWARDS ●

With generations of boat building experience in his family, Walter C. Meloon decides to pursue the boat manufacturing business.

He moves his family from New Hampshire to Florida and forms the Florida Variety Boat Company in Pine Castle, FL.

1926

Trailering Boats by the Highway

Florida Variety Boat Company becomes one of the pioneers in boat transportation.

By trailering boats, rather than using the train system, the company is able to reach new markets and reduce the damage of boats during transport.

1928

Raceboats

The company began building small race boats.

These were used for several local races around the Central Florida area including on Lake Ivanhoe in Orlando, Florida.

1920s GALLERY

The Florida Variety Boat Company is renamed to Pine Castle Boat and Construction Company.

1936

The "Correct Craft" for you!

After hearing a radio advertisement describing "The correct heel for your shoe”, Walter C. Meloon thought, ”why not market the boats as "the Correct Craft for you?"

Thus, the name was changed to Correct Craft.

Powerboat cruising at Winter Park, Florida

1937

Winter Park – The Venice of Florida

In 1937, Walt C. Meloon was approached to dredge and build a series of canals throughout Winter Park, Florida for a new attraction.

Announced as "The Venice of America,” the 25-passenger Scenic Boat Tours originally used Correct Craft boats and officially began on January 1, 1938. The scenic tour and famous canals continue to be a staple in the Winter Park community today.

1930s GALLERY

As demand for Correct Craft boats increased, a new plant is opened in Titusville, Florida.

The new factory increased the manufacturing capacity and size of models produced, as Correct Craft began the production of larger models.

During World War II, The United States was in need of boats to help move troops and supplies across the Rhine River.

On February 9th, 1945, the government contacted Correct Craft and asked them how many boats they could make by February 28th. They committed to 300, far more than they had ever done in that timeframe.

The team at Correct Craft worked six days a week and developed an innovative production process that allowed the factory to exceed the request and produce 400 boats in record time.

This event, which National Geographic later dubbed "A Miracle Production," solidified the company's reputation and it received the Army and Navy “E” Award.

1948

First Mahogany Inboards

Production begins for the first complete mahogany inboards. These came in numerous sizes, including 19-foot racing runabouts and custom-designed runabouts and cruisers.

The largest boats were 50-foot cruisers.

1940s GALLERY

Water Skier pulled by Correct Craft Boat

The 14' Atom 25 plywood utility boat becomes one of the most sought after Correct Craft models and retails for $1,095.

This model paved the way for the future in waterski boats.

1953

Large Cruisers

Prosperity leads the company to begin production of larger boats than it has ever produced.

Utilizing the greater space that the Titusville plant has to offer, Correct Craft begins to build cruisers and yachts that range all the way up to 50’ in length.

1957

The company scales back the number of available models.

With the large rear fins on automobiles so widely popular during the 1950’s, it makes sense that the most popular Correct Craft model at this time is the 17' Star-Flite utility boat.

1950s GALLERY

Correct Craft Atom Skier Boat in showroom

Leo Bentz approaches Correct Craft and offers to sell the mold of the Ski Nautique and brand name in return for a free boat and required maintenance for three years.

The company accepts the offer and begins production.

THE SKI NAUTIQUE 1961

1966

Orlando Expansion

A major expansion of the manufacturing facility in Orlando, Florida takes place. A groundbreaking ceremony is held in order to celebrate the rapid expansion and prosperity this new facility will bring.

1960s GALLERY

Water skiers being pulled by Correct Craft boat

Correct Craft boat pulling paddle boarder

Waterskier being pulled by Ski Nautique boat

As waterskiing continues to thrive, Nautique establishes the first-ever factory waterski team to support the competitive side of the sport.

Male and female athletes are sponsored by Nautique and represent the brand at 3-event tournaments across the globe.

1979

Barefoot Nautique

With barefoot waterskiing on the rise, Nautique makes the decision to create a boat dedicated to the sport.

The Barefoot Nautique is introduced, which has a performance-first focus with larger engine offerings.

Swim Platforms

Correct Craft is the first to incorporate swim platforms into the boat design. This design proved to be revolutionary with the massive shift to family activities and watersports performed on Correct Craft models.

1970s GALLERY

Correct Craft Mustang 17 boat cruising through lake

Correct Craft Mustang boat cruising on lake

Water skier being pulled by boat on lake

After undergoing a complete transformation, Nautique unveils the
Ski Nautique 2001 and receives rave reviews.

THE SKI NAUTIQUE 2001 1981

After undergoing a complete transformation, Nautique unveils the
Ski Nautique 2001 and receives rave reviews.

This model revolutionizes the sport of waterskiing and becomes an icon in the watersports industry to this day.

1983

Bass Nautique

With an established knowledge of inland boating, Nautique enters the bass fishing boat market.

The Bass Nautique 2018 is introduced and comes in at 18-feet.

1986

Ski Nautique 25th Anniversary

Nautique celebrates its 25th anniversary of the Ski Nautique with a limited production run of Silver Nautiques. These rare models have exclusive touches throughout the boat to commemorate the year.

1980s GALLERY

Man fishing with boat cruising through water behind him

Friends gathering around grill with Correct Craft boat behing them

Water skiers pyramid being pulled by Ski Nautique boat

Nautique again redesigns the Ski Nautique which features a sloping transom, spray relief pockets and the widest beam of any tournament inboard in history.

This new model, nicknamed the “slant back” is now the highest performing waterski boat to date.

1993

The Paragon

A limited-edition boat, the Ski Nautique Paragon, is offered.

This collector's edition features the latest technology, classic styling and real wood finishes.

1997

Total Surface Control

An innovative hull design, Total Surface Control, is debuted on the Ski Nautique.

The hull design included numerous benefits, including soft wakes and controlling the spray for a better waterskiing experience.

The first wakeboard specific boat is introduced.

The Air Nautique offers two brand-new pieces of revolutionary technology: the Flight Control Tower® and and internal ballast tanks known as Total Launch Control®.

THE AIR NAUTIQUE 1997

1999

Total Wake Control

Nautique introduces the Total Wake Control (TWC™) which changes the face of wakeboarding yet again.

This comes in the form of a hull specifically designed to deliver perfectly shaped wakes for wakeboarding.

1990s GALLERY

People in Barefoot Nautique Boat on lake

Innovation continues with a new focus on the driver.

The introduction of the Smart Pod 2000 brings the most technologically advanced dashboard available with all the information and control a driver needs at their fingertips.

2001

40th Anniversary

Nautique offers a 40th Anniversary special edition Ski Nautique featuring a special color combination and unique graphics.

2004

Sport Shift

Nautique delivers the first true "crossover" boat to the recreational boat market. Nautique's innovative SPORTSHIFT™, located next to the throttle, makes the Sport Nautique SV-211 truly versatile by creating custom wakes. With one easy shift, the driver can engage the Hydro-Gate™, which builds pressure and lift for a completely new wake experience.

2009

Coastal Edition

Nautique introduces advanced new saltwater capable package, dubbed the Nautique Coastal Edition. These models include corrosive-resistant parts and closed cooling systems to withstand the rigors of saltwater use.

2000s GALLERY

Ski Nautique Boat crusing thorugh the water

Nautique revolutionizes the waterski industry once again with the introduction of the innovative Ski Nautique 200, available in open or closed bow.

2011

50th Anniversary of Ski Nautique

Nautique celebrates its 50th anniversary of the Ski Nautique.

Each boat that goes off the factory floor is included with a golden dimensional badge to commemorate the anniversary.

2011

Nautique Goes Electric

Nautique introduces the first 100% electric Ski Nautique prototype.

To demonstrate this new technology, this boat pulls its first head-to-head slalom competition at the Nautique Masters Water Ski Tournament®.

Nautique launches the Super Air Nautique G23.

Working with its elite team of athletes, Nautique created a revolutionary boat from the ground up that pushed wakeboarding to new levels. From a performance perspective, no boat model had ever created wakeboard wakes of this caliber before, and it was clear in the first few months of its release after multiple tricks were landed for the first time behind the G23.

SUPER AIR NAUTIQUE G23 2012

2013

Nautique Surf System™

Nautique introduces the all-new Nautique Surf System™ (NSS) with WAVEPLATE technology.

The NSS allows users to instantly switch from wakeboarding to wakesurfing on demand; eliminates the need to offload ballast, allowing surfers to create a wave on their desired side with the touch of a button; and provides total wave customization adjusting shape and steepness on the fly.

2016

GS20 Multi-Sport Boat

Ultimate versatility arrives with the introduction of the first-ever Super Air Nautique GS20.

Blending masterful award-winning designs from the industry-leading G-series and record-breaking Ski Nautique 200, the GS20 becomes the most innovative multi-sport boat to hit the water.

2018

The All-New Ski Nautique

Nautique astonishes the three-event waterski world with the introduction of the all-new 2019 Ski Nautique.

A blended carbon fiber and fiberglass construction, this boat becomes the new standard in tournament waterski towboats. The ultra-lightweight construction, combined with the innovative MicroTuner® technology is a design and engineering marvel. The all-new Ski Nautique is lightest three-event towboat on the market.

G23 Paragon Boat cruising through the water

2019

The G23 Paragon

Nautique introduces the industry’s first luxury performance wake boat, the Super Air Nautique G23 Paragon.

A boat born out of a desire to achieve the highest-level imaginable, the G23 Paragon offers the very best in styling and amenities. This luxurious wake boat takes must-haves to the next level.

2010s GALLERY

Nautique Boat pulling wakeboarder through water

Green Super Air Nautique boat curising through water

Water Skier making waves behind Nautique Boat

Nautique Boat Company along with Ingenity, an electric propulsion brand, partner together to create a revolutionary 100% electric GS22E.

Using the existing engine compartment, Ingenity has incorporated the most energy-dense battery and propulsion system into the boat without compromising any of the current storage space or performance characteristics. The battery inside the GS22E allows for 2 to 3 hours of normal watersports use and can be recharged in as little as 90 minutes.

2021

Super Air Nautique S-Series

Nautique introduces the Super Air Nautique S23, the first boat in the S-Series.

An ultra-modern take on the traditional bow Nautique, the S23 offers an aggressive new hull design that delivers unrelenting performance unlike anything else in its class. Adding functionality while providing Nautique's proven, world-class surf waves and wakeboard wakes, this first iteration of the brand-new Super Air Nautique S-Series gives a subtle nod to the past while looking boldly into the future.

Super Air Nautique S-Series Boat cruising through water

2024

All-New Super Air Nautique Paragon Series

Building upon the legacy of the award-winning Paragon models, Nautique presents the all-new 2024 Super Air Nautique Paragon Series. After undergoing a meticulous redesign, the all-new G23 Paragon and G25 Paragon deliver an unmatched luxury boating experience with exquisite design and refined details.

2025

All-New Super Air Nautique G-Series

Completely redesigned from bow to stern, the legend of the G-Series continues to evolve with uniquely angular and highly functional bow lines, a significantly refreshed interior, an all-new helm design and interface, and the best performing wake and wave to date. With the 2025 G21, G23, and G25, the G-Series continues its reign as the number one choice for wakeboarders and wakesurfers of all ages and abilities.

Nautique Celebrates 100 Years of Boatbuilding Excellence

Nautique Boats announces 100 years of boatbuilding excellence. Since Walter C. Meloon embarked on a transformative journey in 1925, Nautique has been at the forefront of advancements in boatbuilding, presiding as the global leader on the waters of the world. Over the decades, the company’s vison has remained stead-fast, and today we continue to pay homage to our past with sustaining efforts in product diversity, uncompromised craftsmanship and innovation, as well as our philanthropic efforts and beliefs.

Centennial Edition

To commemorate Nautique’s 100th Anniversary celebration, the Centennial Edition is introduced. This edition contains exclusive touches throughout every boat for the 2025 model year.

2026

All-New Ski Nautique

Following suit with its 65-year legacy marked by more personal bests and world records than any other waterski boat in history, the Ski Nautique has been reengineered to push the boundaries of what’s possible in three-event waterskiing. Significantly lighter than the previous generation, the completely redesigned Ski Nautique has been refined from bow to stern with functional design elements and cutting-edge technology to deliver unprecedented performance capabilities with every pass through the course.

2027

All-New S-Series

Nautique Boat Company is proud to introduce the completely redesigned 2027 Super Air Nautique S-Series. The all-new 23-foot S23 and 25-foot S25 are a confident statement of intent – crafted to deliver the most complete Nautique experience. Guided by a philosophy that is unmistakably made for more, the S-Series unites heritage and innovation in a way that feels both timeless and progressive. Every element has been thoughtfully refined to offer greater capability, elevated comfort, heightened craftsmanship, and more opportunity on the water. The result is a series that never asks you to compromise, while delivering performance, luxury, versatility, and design in perfect balance.

From an entirely new hull design engineered to produce crisp, consistent wakes and the most versatile, high-performance surf wave to date, to an interior designed with elevated comfort, intuitive functionality, and expanded storage space, the S-Series adapts to every kind of day on the water. It creates room for beginners to build confidence, for experienced riders to push further, and for everyone on board to feel completely at home.

The S-Series is not defined by a single strength, but by how seamlessly it brings them all together. More memories. More connection. More time spent doing what you love.

2020s GALLERY

RELIABILITY

For decades, Nautique Boats have been known for their reliability. Families across the globe have trusted our products as the leader in the industry due to their build quality, superior construction, and dependability.

Step into the facility in Orlando, Florida and you’ll see why. The team takes pride in the products they produce, that’s why each Nautique is built with the utmost care and highest-quality materials that can be sourced. That thoughtful approach to manufacturing is what delivers the highest-level of reliability inside every Nautique that leaves the factory floor.

MANUFACTURING

Throughout our history, the manufacturing process has evolved, and countless innovations have made our products safer, higher-performing and more durable than ever before.

The one constant throughout the years has been our dedication to the handcrafted process. Each boat that has been manufactured at our facilities over the last 100 years have received the same attention to detail that only a highly skilled craftsman can provide. Whether it was 1925, 1948 or 2025, every piece and part of Nautique’s world-class boats are either built or installed by hand.

NAUTIQUE CARES

Participating in philanthropic initiatives has always been at the core of what the Nautique and Correct Craft brands have stood for.

It’s engrained in our culture and that begins with each and every employee – to build the world’s best boat and use our resources to impact and help others, one person at a time. Our mission is “Building Boats to the Glory of God” and out of that flows “Nautique Cares.”

DRIVING WATERSPORTS INNOVATION

Countless watersports activities were conceived and developed behind Nautique and Correct Craft boats over the course of history.

Being the first boat to include a tow pylon drove innovation on the water, along with Ralph C. Meloon being involved in some of the earliest forms of waterskiing on record. From the early aqua planes and waterskis to the first beginnings of wakesurfing, watersports progression is deeply rooted behind our boats.

THE CYPRESS GARDEN YEARS

In 1936, Dick Pope Sr. opened Florida's first commercial tourist theme park, Cypress Gardens.

With the help of Correct Craft boats, the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Show became a world attraction, showcasing the sport across the globe. The relationship flourished for decades, with Correct Craft at the forefront of towboat innovation and leading the evolution of the sport in order to meet the needs of the world-class Cypress Gardens skiers.

AWARDS

Over the course of 100 years, the Correct Craft and Nautique name has been stamped on awards of all types

From outside recognition from the likes of JD Power, to the industry awards like the NMMA Innovation Awards or achieving Boat of the Year from Boating Magazine. Our products have won the hearts and minds of countless individuals over the years. These honors have never been taken for granted, as being celebrated in these ways has only meant one thing: our customers are happy.

History

This year marks the 100th anniversary of our company crafting the best boats on the waters of the world. As we embark on celebrating this monumental achievement, we’re proud to share the rich history and story of how we got here.

FLORIDA VARIETY BOAT COMPANY 1925

With generations of boat building experience in his family, Walter C. Meloon decides to pursue the boat manufacturing business.

1926

1928

1920s GALLERY

PINE CASTLE BOAT COMPANY 1930

The Florida Variety Boat Company is renamed to Pine Castle Boat and Construction Company.

1936

1937

1930s GALLERY

FACTORY EXPANSION 1942

As demand for Correct Craft boats increased, a new plant is opened in Titusville, Florida.

WORLD WAR II 1945

1948

1940s GALLERY

THE ATOM 25 1950

1953

1957

1950s GALLERY

THE SKI NAUTIQUE 1961

1966

1960s GALLERY

TEAM NAUTIQUE 1977

1979

1970s GALLERY

THE SKI NAUTIQUE 2001 1981

1983

1986

1980s GALLERY

WIDENING THE BEAM 1990

1993

1997

THE AIR NAUTIQUE 1997

1999

1990s GALLERY

SMART POD 2000

2001

2004

2009

2000s GALLERY

SKI NAUTIQUE 200 2010

2011

2011

SUPER AIR NAUTIQUE G23 2012

2013

2016

2018

2019

2010s GALLERY

SAN GS22E 2020

2021

2024

2025

2026

2027

2020s GALLERY

THROUGHOUT OUR HISTORY

FLORIDA VARIETY
BOAT COMPANY 1925

PINE CASTLE
BOAT COMPANY 1930

FACTORY
EXPANSION 1942

THROUGHOUT OUR
HISTORY