Tidewater Boats Growing In South Carolina

The new Lexington County, SC facility will produce larger boats and generate 100 new jobs.

Tidewater Boats is growing its Lexington County, SC operations. To accommodate the production of larger models, the designer and manufacturer of premier saltwater boats is investing $8.3 million and creating 100 new jobs.

Lexington County SC
Photo: Tidewater Boats

“Our mission is to build a boat that is of great value and worthy of proud ownership,” said Tidewater Boats General Manager Chris Martin. “We accomplish this by utilizing historically-skilled South Carolina craftsmen, the most advanced composite materials available and a classic, distinctive design that sets us apart from our competition. We are thankful to be able to keep our facility in the Midlands of South Carolina where government officials are working hard to give us the best resources available to aid in growth and add jobs. Because of our team’s commitment to excellence, we make it possible to deliver a unique boating dream.”

Founded in 2006, Tidewater Boats uses state-of-the-art marine craftsmanship to design and build some of the most popular saltwater boats in the industry. The company has grown from a modest five models 10 years ago to 24 models today. Boat sizes range from 17 to 32 feet, with more models currently in the design process. Tidewater Boats accommodates a variety of customers by offering plush amenities for the whole family and the tools for the serious fisherman.

The company’s new satellite facility in Lexington will allow for more modernized, streamlined production, while also freeing up space at Tidewater’s original facility to expand production.

South Carolina’s Coordinating Council for Economic Development has approved job development credits related to the project.

“South Carolina continues to build a reputation for itself as a state that not only makes things but makes them well,” said South Carolina Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt. “With today’s announcement by Tidewater Boats, the company is sending a message to the world that South Carolina has everything they need to continue making their state-of-the-art products.”

“This expansion of Tidewater Boats’ operations bolsters the fact that Lexington County and the Midlands are a formidable area for economic foundation, development and growth,” said Lexington County Council Chairman Todd Cullum. “We are very excited that this thriving company will add even more jobs to our area, and that this expansion will help forge a path forward for other companies who are looking to locate to a rapidly-growing area with a highly-motivated workforce.”

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