The Cormate Story
Our Background
Hydro Design, a company founded in 1989, began its journey by producing center console boats. The first models they introduced, the F-18 and F-20, have since become sought-after classics in the world of recreational boating. Over the years, Hydro Design continued to innovate and introduce new boat models, establishing itself as a significant player in the recreational boat manufacturing industry.
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In 1999, there was a change in ownership when the manufacturing rights were sold by the original owner, and he exited the business. However, issues with missing royalty payments led to the original owner, presumably Ranvig, regaining the production rights and retaining the brand name.
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Subsequently, the Hydrolift name and the rights to the T-30 and S-24 hulls were acquired by Bård Eker, who took over the Hydrolift company and led it to new heights.
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Hydro Design continued its production, manufacturing not only the original boat models but also new Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs) under the name Stormway. However, this business was sold relatively quickly, paving the way for the development of a new brand concept.
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Working alongside Frode Svendsen, a collaborator from the Hydrolift era, the original owner of Hydro Design, Ranvig, embarked on a new venture. Their goal was to create high-quality boats with excellent seaworthiness and timeless design, while also incorporating a revolutionary layout tailored to contemporary lifestyles. These boats were constructed entirely using CAD/CAM technology, breaking away from previous construction and building techniques. This innovative approach gave rise to the Cormate boats.
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The CormateT-28, one of their notable creations, made its debut at the international Norwegian Boat Show in 2006 and received the prestigious "The Boat of the Year" award. Nine years later, at its second international premiere, the same model earned the "Boat of the Show" accolade at the international boat show in Warsaw, underlining the company's commitment to producing exceptional boats with cutting-edge design and functionality.
Meet the Team
CEO
MICHAEL BLANCH
MARKETING DIRECTOR
TAYLAH CROME
CFO
BEN PUGH
No Fashion,
Only Logic.
The heritage and the racing genes live on through today’s products. Hydro Design has its origins as one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of offshore racing boats, this has contributed to irreplaceable knowledge of hull designs, manufacturing techniques and materials.
Hydro Design has more than 30 years of experience in the development and production of high quality boats with outstanding performance and seaworthiness.
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The Cormate boats are engineered and developed by Hydro Design AS. On water testing of prototypes is done at our service and test center in Fredrikstad (Norway).