January 18, 2016

Dufour Yachts recently announced the appointment of Pickering, Ontario based Swans Yacht Sales as their exclusive dealer for Ontario, Manitoba and the Lake Ontario region of New York State.

Dufour Area Sales Director Eric Macklin said: “Swans is a perfect fit with Dufour. The depth of experience and exceptional dedication to serving customers provides a springboard to launch both our companies to the next level. We are thrilled to have connected at the right time with such a well-respected and capable team!”

Dufour builds 10 models of elegant cruising yachts from 31 to 56 feet, expanding Swans offerings beyond the 50’ size category. Sailors with preferences towards a more European style will be attracted to the Italian designed and French built range. For Dufour, the connection with Swans reinforces a growing market position in North America and adds a complete “in-house” service facility for all Ontario Dufour owners.

Swans Yacht Sales, led by sailing industry veteran Bernie Luttmer, was established in 1976 and has 5 locations in central and eastern Canada. The staff of 17 includes a team of 6 brokers, 5 full time service technicians and administrative and marketing support.  Luttmer said,  “Of course we found the Dufour products very appealing, but our visit to the Paris show clinched the decision. We met there with the President and CEO of Dufour, Salvatore Serio, and found a common vision to consistently deliver an exceptional customer experience.  We are all very excited about this opportunity to attract a new generation of lifelong of sailors into the family.”

The two companies launched their new relationship at the 2016 Toronto International Boat Show with a graphic and video display of the entire range. Stock inventory will arrive to Toronto in the springtime, so to spark immediate business, Swans is offering buyers free travel to the Dusseldorf boat show where the entire Grand Large range will be on display.

For more information, contact:

Dufour Yachts Director of Marketing & Communications, Paolo Serio: Paolo.serio@dufour-yachts.com Dufour Yachts Area Sales Director eric.macklin@dufour-yachts.com

Swans Yacht Sales VP of Sales & Marketing: Perry Woodman: perry@swansyachtsales.com